Editor and Training Coordinator - The News Lab

Penn State University • Ferguson Township, PA

100d • $61,800 - $89,600

About The Position

The News Lab at Penn State’s Bellisario College of Communications is seeking a passionate and experienced Editor and Training Coordinator to join our growing team! In this pivotal role, you’ll work closely with our Local Reporting Cohort, guiding student journalists from pitch to publication and overseeing our innovative training and badging program. You’ll play a key role in shaping the next generation of Pennsylvania journalists by mentoring students, building industry partnerships, and helping bridge classroom learning with real-world reporting. Launched in Fall 2022, the News Lab connects student journalists with professional newsrooms across Pennsylvania. Our students have published or broadcast work in over 70 outlets, including The Philadelphia Inquirer, PennLive, SpotlightPA, WPSU, and WVPB. Their work has earned prestigious recognition, including: Pennsylvania Broadcast Association Excellence Award, Press Club of Western PA Golden Quills, SPJ Mark of Excellence Awards, and Multiple Hearst Award placements. We provide paid, year-round journalism opportunities that serve as both income sources and professional training grounds—welcoming students from all majors, with a focus on underclassmen.

Requirements

• Proven experience in editing or editorial mentorship.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends.

Nice To Haves

• Experience across multiple media formats (e.g., print/digital, TV, radio, podcasting, documentary).
• Advanced degree in journalism, communications, or a related field.
• Experience working with student journalists or in academic settings.
• Familiarity with the Pennsylvania media landscape and local reporting challenges.
• Awareness of emerging journalism technologies and industry trends.
• Background in managing training programs or professional development initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Mentor student journalists through the full editorial process—from story ideation to final publication or broadcast.
• Coordinate and enhance the News Lab’s training and badging program.
• Collaborate with the News Lab Director to execute strategic goals.
• Build and maintain relationships with professional news outlets across Pennsylvania.
• Support students during evening and weekend training sessions as needed.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Robust retirement plans.
• Substantial paid time off including holidays, vacation, and sick time.
• Generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree