Associate News Editor, Popular Mechanics

Hearst•Easton, PA

22d•Hybrid

About The Position

Popular Mechanics is seeking an Associate News Editor to help shape daily coverage for its science and technology journalism across digital and social platforms. The role involves pitching and reporting stories, editing staff and freelance writers, monitoring developments across relevant subjects, and helping deliver engaging journalism. The position is based in Easton, Pennsylvania, and requires working from the office four days per week.

Requirements

At least 2 years of professional experience in journalism, editing, writing, digital media, or a related editorial field.
Strong writing and editing skills, including the ability to explain complex subjects clearly, accurately, and engagingly.
Curiosity about science, technology, engineering, space, history, defense, archaeology, and related topics, and a desire to keep learning.
Experience working to daily deadlines in a fast-paced digital newsroom or publishing environment.
Strong reporting instincts and the ability to identify, research, and develop compelling story ideas.
Experience working collaboratively with writers, editors, experts, and other sources.
Ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines while maintaining attention to detail and editorial judgment.
Familiarity with content management systems and audience analytics tools such as Parse.ly, Google Analytics, or similar platforms.
Strong organization, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Nice To Haves

On-camera experience or an interest in appearing in short-form video.

Responsibilities

Pitch and develop timely story ideas for daily news and short-form features.
Report and write news articles, explainers, and short features on science, technology, engineering, space, history, and related topics.
Edit staff and freelance stories for accuracy, clarity, structure, pace, and editorial style.
Assign stories to freelance writers, communicate expectations, and keep assignments on track for deadlines.
Monitor news, research, expert sources, government reports, and other reliable sources for important developments.
Interview scientists, researchers, engineers, historians, and other experts.
Write and refine headlines, display copy, and other story elements.
Upload, format, and publish stories using the content management system, ensuring accuracy and quality of presentation.
Collaborate with audience, social, video, and production teams to prepare stories for distribution across platforms.
Review performance with analytics tools and use audience insights to inform future coverage.
Contribute to short-form video storytelling and other emerging editorial formats.