Administrative and Editorial Assistant, The Contrarian

Democracy Defenders Action•Washington, DC

4h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Administrative and Editorial Assistant delivers critical project management and scheduling support to The Contrarian’s Editor-in-Chief, The Contrarian’s Managing Editor, and the Contrarian’s staff overall. This is an excellent opportunity to learn the operations and strategy behind a successful independent digital media organization and to contribute to a mission-driven publication. To best protect, strengthen, and rebuild our democracy, it is critical that DDA’s staff reflects the diversity of backgrounds and experiences represented in the democracy we seek to defend. Applicants of all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Requirements

1-2 years in an administrative role in an independent publication, public service office, non-profit, advocacy organization, political campaign, or other comparable environment.
Experience directly supporting senior executives.
Strong time management skills, including the ability to meet deadlines and prioritize tasks appropriately.
Adept at juggling multiple information streams and changing priorities in a fast-paced and high-stakes media environment.
Highly organized with vigorous attention to detail.
Sound judgment and discretion when handling sensitive or confidential information.
Clear and concise written communication and aptitude for distilling key information from multiple sources.
Available for week night and weekend work as needed.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with civil society groups, think tanks, and elected leaders is preferred.
Passion for independent journalism.
Unwavering commitment to defeating election sabotage and denial, fighting autocracy, and building a resilient democracy; Experience (professional, volunteer, or otherwise) advancing democracy, election integrity, and the rule of law.
Commitment to diversity and inclusivity and an ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs.

Responsibilities

Support Managing Editor in maintaining the scheduling calendar to align meetings and work-blocks with strategic editorial focus and breaking news priorities.
Prioritize and track incoming requests from staff and external partners (via email, messages, and meetings), triaging urgent requests, and ensuring timely responses.
Maintain and track the Editor-in-Chief’s list of daily tasks and weekly priorities.
Attend daily virtual meetings and effectively communicate and track key takeaways and action items.
Support project execution as directed, including preparing guests, scheduling and running Zoom meetings, uploading to our Substack in coordination with The Contrarian’s digital team, and planning virtual or in person events.
Complete other administrative tasks as needed, such as booking travel, submitting expenses, completing timesheets, etc.
At the direction of leadership, plan team building events and opportunities as directed.
Serve as a trusted thought partner to our Editor in Chief, Managing Editor, and Director of Editorial Content.
In partnership with the Director of Editorial Content, act as a liaison with staff at Democracy Defenders Action c4.