Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from State Affairs
Job overview
The Managing Editor at State Affairs leads the editorial team to deliver accurate, impactful news on state government and policy, primarily from Sacramento, California.
Responsibilities and impact
The role involves editing and producing daily and enterprise news stories, coordinating interviews, reviewing content for accuracy and style, pitching relevant stories, and collaborating closely with reporters to meet deadlines and enhance audience engagement.
Compensation and benefits
The salary ranges from $95,000 to $120,000 annually, with benefits including health, dental, vision insurance, 401(k), paid time off, parental leave, and health savings accounts.
Experience and skills
Candidates should have at least five years of journalism or editing experience, preferably in government reporting, strong editing skills, familiarity with AP style, digital literacy, research skills, and a bachelor's degree in journalism or related field is preferred.
Work environment and culture
State Affairs values nonpartisan, impactful journalism with a focus on accuracy, attention to detail, and ethical reporting, offering a collaborative team environment based in Sacramento.
Company information
State Affairs is a national digital news site focused on state legislatures, delivering news on state government and policy across the country.
Team overview
The managing editor works closely with journalists and reporters, leading editorial efforts and coordinating story development within the team.
Job location and travel
The position is based in Sacramento, California, requiring in-person work at the Statehouse with relocation required if not local.
Application process
Applicants must send a cover letter, resume, and at least three writing samples to the editor-in-chief via email; applications without a cover letter will not be considered.
Unique job features
The role offers the opportunity to cover critical state government news with a focus on impactful, nonpartisan reporting and requires strong editorial leadership and project management skills.
Company overview
State Affairs is a media company focused on providing in-depth reporting and analysis on state-level politics and policy issues across the United States. They generate revenue through subscriptions, advertising, and partnerships, offering a platform for readers interested in detailed and localized political coverage. Founded to fill the gap in statehouse reporting, State Affairs aims to deliver high-quality journalism that informs citizens about the decisions impacting their communities. The company is known for its commitment to transparency and accountability, emphasizing the importance of state governance in the broader political landscape.
How to land this job
Position your resume to showcase extensive editing and writing experience, particularly in government or political reporting, emphasizing your ability to meet tight deadlines and produce impactful, nonpartisan news.
Highlight your proficiency with AP style, copy editing, and digital literacy, including familiarity with multimedia platforms and data-based reporting, to align with the job's editorial and digital growth goals.
Apply through multiple channels such as State Affairs' official career page, LinkedIn job postings, and journalism-specific job boards to maximize your application visibility.
Connect on LinkedIn with current editors and journalists at State Affairs, especially those in the Sacramento bureau; use ice breakers like complimenting recent enterprise stories they've published or asking about their experience covering state government.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'managing editor,' 'AP style,' 'deadline management,' 'digital growth,' 'government reporting,' and 'team leadership' to ensure your resume passes initial screenings.
Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications, identify multiple job posting locations, and find relevant LinkedIn contacts for networking, allowing you to focus your time on preparing for interviews and refining your writing samples.
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