Night Editor

Hearst•San Francisco, CA

15d•$100,000 - $120,000

About The Position

The San Francisco Chronicle is looking for an experienced, nimble journalist with sharp news judgment and editing skills to lead its night desk, running breaking news coverage every weekday from 2 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. This is a key position in one of the West’s largest newsrooms, managing the digital report into the evening across several desks. While the editor works directly with two swing-shift reporters, they also handle late-breaking stories from reporters on other beats. The role requires the ability to monitor a wide spectrum of news sources, quickly pivot toward new developments, and think ambitiously about approaches to stories that engage our readers. We rely on the night editor to make spot coverage decisions and send reporters into the field when the story calls for it, but also to alert senior editors when more resources or counsel are needed. The ideal candidate is curious, thrives under pressure and sees opportunities that others miss. We are looking for a positive communicator who can help journalists refine ideas and make creative decisions about how stories should be presented, while partnering with photo editors, digital producers and others. The night editor helps reporters develop their skills and grow, while identifying and working with them on in-depth features and enterprise stories when news isn’t breaking. The person should embrace multimedia tools and be energized by the challenge of producing work, often on deadline, that is clear, accurate and fair.

Requirements

At least three to five years of experience in a newsroom or related work environment.
Strong news judgment, creativity, meticulousness and a commitment to fairness.
An ability to collaborate and work in a fast-changing news environment.
Solid editing and storytelling skills.
Leadership skills and ability to mentor and guide a team.
This position is full-time, Monday through Friday, 2-10:30 p.m.
The candidate must be based in the Bay Area, though our in-office requirement does not apply to this position.

Responsibilities

Monitor local and national news outlets, as well as social media and other sources, assigning stories to reporters and giving them direction.
Edit with accuracy, clarity and speed, writing punchy headlines and updating stories frequently.
Send reporters into the field as appropriate and coordinate with photo editors.
On bigger stories, launch additional coverage, consult with senior editors, and plan for ongoing coverage into the night or morning.
Work with reporters to hone reporting and writing skills, and to develop enterprise stories that go deeper.