Job Description
The Scholars Strategy Network (SSN) is looking for a part-time Opinion Editor for a one-year position. The editor will support the Communications team in achieving the organization’s communications strategy of bringing research and evidence into the public debate via op-eds to improve policy and strengthen democracy.
The Opinion Editor is a flexible part-time position designed for a communications professional who is excited to work with the scholars in SSN’s large and growing network of over 2,000 members across the US. The position requires an average of 20 hours per week, ideally starting June 2025 and concluding June 2026. The position is grant-funded, with a salary of $35,000 for the year, and is limited to the one-year duration of the grant.
SSN currently operates in a remote-first, hybrid work environment. Preference will be given to candidates based in Massachusetts, but this role may be available as a remote position for an exceptionally qualified candidate. Employees in Massachusetts have the option to work at SSN’s main offices at 501 Boylston St., Boston, MA 02116. The person selected for this position will be part of SSN’s Communications team and reports directly to SSN’s Director of Communications.
About The Scholars Strategy Network
The Scholars Strategy Network is a nonpartisan, nonprofit membership organization that connects journalists, policymakers, and civic leaders to America’s top scholars and their research. Together they inform news and help solve the nation’s toughest policy problems. Across the country, chapters and scholars volunteer their research, time and energy. Scholars join the network to become part of a community of leading researchers who are dedicated to improving policy and strengthening democracy. Learn more at www.scholars.org.
Responsibilities
As a large organization with a relatively small staff, SSN has a lean, productive Communications team that supports and creates opportunities for our members. Among other tasks, the Opinion Editor will:
- Provide feedback and in-line edits on op-ed drafts written by members of the Scholars Strategy Network and other academics
- Provide advice to SSN members and other academics who are exploring ideas for op-eds, both via email and by setting up Zoom and phone meetings as necessary
- Support the pitching process for op-eds by brainstorming proper venues and writing pitch email drafts
- Identify timely hooks for previously unpublished op-eds, or to solicit new op-eds from SSN members
- Track the feedback, editing, and pitching process for op-eds by SSN members and support the compilation of relevant metrics for grant reporting
- Support post-publication outreach with published op-eds as needed
Preferred Qualifications
The ideal candidate for this position would be:
- An individual with significant editing experience, preferably editing op-eds and/or other writing for the media
- Capable of translating complex concepts into easy-to-understand language
- Able to communicate feedback and edits to authors in a professional, courteous manner
- Knowledgeable about the media landscape and pitching process for op-eds
- Experienced in working with academics, researchers, or other experts
- Organized and able to keep track of multiple pieces of writing and pitches simultaneously
- Responsive to timely moments of opportunity
- Experienced working with academics, researchers, or other experts
- Interested in the policy landscape, policy news, and the role of research and evidence in policy
How to apply
To apply for the part-time Opinion Editor position, follow the instructions in the link provided below to submit the necessary materials, including a cover letter and resume. Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Candidates selected for an interview will be asked to provide a writing sample, two references, and complete a short editing test.
SSN is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, class, color, disability, ethnicity, faith, gender, national origin, race, sexual orientation, or gender identity. People of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals, and women are strongly encouraged to apply.
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