Music Editor

Noisy Creek • Portland, OR

7d • Onsite

About The Position

The Portland Mercury is seeking a full-time Music Editor to join its editorial staff. This role is ideal for a writer passionate about the Portland music scene, with a deep understanding of both local and national music trends. The position requires strong writing skills, a belief in the importance of a vibrant arts scene, and ideally, experience in other cultural areas such as food, nightlife, comedy, theater, film, books, and visual art. While a journalism degree is not mandatory, basic reporting skills are essential.

Requirements

• Snappy, smart writing paired with a passion for digging deep into the music scene and other areas of cultural significance.
• Ability to write about various music genres with respect and through research.
• Must be familiar with, participate in, and have a deep knowledge of Portland’s vibrant, multi-faceted music scene.
• Extremely organized and versatile.
• Exceptional grammar and style skills.
• Enthusiasm, professionalism, people skills, ability to weather critical feedback from readers, and a good sense of humor.

Nice To Haves

• Experience and love for other areas of arts and culture (including food, nightlife, comedy, theater, film, books, visual art, and more).
• At least two years of experience in culture writing is preferred.
• Special consideration will be given to those who have worked in a newsroom.
• Previous editing experience is recommended.

Responsibilities

• Write about various music genres with respect and through research.
• Report on breaking music news.
• Write longer reviews as well as short blurbs.
• Devise and execute fresh story ideas with little to no hand-holding and adhere to deadlines.
• Write for and help produce print products.
• Contribute content to the weekly entertainment calendar.
• Proofread colleagues' work.
• Manage freelancers.

Benefits

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision premiums
• Retirement Plan: SIMPLE IRA with employer matching contributions
• Paid Time Off: 15 paid holidays (including 2 floating holidays) and vacation accrual starting after your first payroll, increasing up to 4 weeks after 5 years
• Employee Assistance Program: Free health, wellness, and financial support services
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Options to set aside pre-tax funds for medical, dependent care, and other expenses

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed