The Trace seeks a versatile news editor to help with our nonprofit newsroom’s production of coverage that engages our passionate readers, leads to impact, and expands our reach. The editor can be based anywhere within the United States.

This is a chance to help The Trace shine a light on America’s gun violence crisis through independent journalism. 

Our news editor will:

  • Identify emerging opportunities for quick-turn news stories, ongoing watchdog coverage, and follow-up reporting for our News Enterprise Desk
  • Edit (and occasionally write) one to three stories per week, conceiving assignments, overseeing the reporting, and sharpening copy
  • Coordinate coverage and assignments — designed with clear goals of impact and/or public understanding — with fellow editors
  • Manage one to four writers, helping them to identify strong stories, prioritize their time, and achieve their goals for output and impact
  • Package articles (story framing, headlines, and images) for maximum resonance and reach

Your resume shows seven or more years of reporting and/or editing, including at least one year of editing experience.

The ideal candidate is someone who:

  • Has strong news instincts and a solid understanding of public interest reporting 
  • Knows how to evaluate reporting and determine when we have the goods
  • Is a clean, clear, and efficient writer
  • Is both self-motivated and innately collaborative
  • Is flexible about many things — but relentless in ensuring the accuracy, fairness, and clarity of every piece of coverage they touch

This job is probably not for someone who:

  • Is averse to fast-paced, evolving environments
  • Has a hard time making decisions
  • Prefers to work on long-lead assignments, one at time

Compensation and benefits

Salary will vary depending on the candidate, but the general range is approximately $90,000-$130,000. This full-time position includes no-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance; 12 weeks of fully paid family leave; a 401(k) with employer matching; four weeks of vacation time, plus 10 sick days and a holiday week in December; several holidays; and professional development resources such as funding to attend conferences.

The majority of our staffers are based in New York, but we also have team members in Washington, D.C., Chicago, Los Angeles, and elsewhere.

At The Trace, we are committed to producing journalism that is equitable and inclusive. We welcome applications from journalists of all experience levels and strongly encourage applications from people of color, women, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ people. 

We know that all of the attributes and interests listed here won’t apply to all candidates. If you think you’d be a great fit and have skills and qualifications not mentioned in this listing, we encourage you to submit an application and tell us why you’d thrive in this role.

To apply

Fill out the application form here. In lieu of a cover letter, we ask that you answer a few questions about your experience and goals. We’re asking for your resume and 2-4 editing clips you’re proud of.

DEADLINE: We will accept applications through August 10, 2023. We may begin reviewing applications sooner, however, and will reach out to you directly if we like your application.

QUESTIONS? Email us at [email protected] with questions about the role or how to apply. Please do not reach out to check on the status of your application before we have contacted you; we will do our best to respond to candidates in a timely manner.