Government and politics editor

USA Today • Indianapolis, IN

23d

About The Position

IndyStar, part of the USA TODAY Network, is seeking a watchdog-minded, politically savvy journalist to lead a team of reporters in a competitive news market. The editor will shape the full range of government and politics coverage, from breaking news and contextualized enterprise to investigative and watchdog journalism, working with reporters throughout the reporting and editing process. Coverage will address the needs of Central Indiana residents and include local, state and federal government, as well as stories of national or statewide interest for the USA TODAY Network.

The editor will put the audience at the center of coverage, embrace experimentation and learn quickly from results, and recognize the importance of urgency and scoops. The role includes mentoring reporters at different career stages and leading with empathy while challenging the team to do its best work. The Government and Politics Editor will join a small team of news editors who collaborate daily. Employment is contingent on passing a post-offer pre-employment background check.

Applicants should submit one document containing a one- to two-page resume, a cover letter describing their approach to the role, and links to three online work samples.

Requirements

• At least five years of journalism experience, including political reporting or editing experience.
• Proven proficiency in applying analytics to content strategy.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Comfort working in a deadline-driven environment.
• Exceptional planning and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of social media and SEO.
• Strong line-editing skills.
• Strong people-management skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Experience with public records and data journalism.
• Command of media law and principles of ethical conduct.
• Bachelor's degree.
• Ability to pass a post-offer pre-employment background check.

Responsibilities

• Manage a team of news reporters covering Indianapolis City Hall, Hamilton County, the Indiana Statehouse and the federal delegation.
• Lead and provide coverage of national or statewide interest for the USA TODAY Network.
• Mentor reporters on source-building, interviewing and public records.
• Use different story formats, video and other visuals to reach audiences and convey information.
• Use audience metrics and internal metrics experts to guide the team's approach to stories.
• Handle other editing duties as needed, including evening and weekend editor rotations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager