Politics Editor

The San Francisco Standard•San Francisco, CA

49d•$150,000 - $170,000•Onsite

About The Position

The San Francisco Standard is a local news startup that is fast becoming a must-read for residents of the Bay Area and beyond. In support of our mission, we are seeking a curious and collaborative politics editor to oversee the cornerstone of our agenda-setting, scoop-chasing newsroom. In this role, you will manage a growing team of journalists focused on San Francisco and California government and elections. The ideal candidate has experience leading politics coverage as an editor or senior reporter, in the Bay Area or at the state level. We are looking for someone with a sharp eye for the great characters, power moves, injustices, absurdities, eccentricities, and triumphs of San Francisco and California politics—and who can direct impactful reporting and find surprising angles that attract readers both in the region and nationally. Our ideal candidate has great news judgment, a commitment to the highest ethical standards, and the imagination to engage with new approaches, tools, and processes. The politics editor’s duties include assigning and editing breaking news, features, and investigations while shaping strategy and planning around major events such as next year’s midterms and gubernatorial elections. You’ll be asked to participate in live in-person and virtual events, so comfort speaking onstage/on-camera is a plus. We would also prefer a candidate who is able to juggle some reporting and writing alongside editing and managing. As a company that values diversity and inclusion, we encourage individuals of all backgrounds and experiences to apply for this position.

Requirements

Experience covering politics in California
A track record of delivering high-quality journalism including investigative, narrative, explanatory, and breaking news
Extensive knowledge of editorial processes, fact-checking, and journalism ethics
Excellent news judgment and ability to prioritize stories and make quick decisions
Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills
Proficiency with digital content management systems and social media
A demonstrated ability to think both creatively and strategically
Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, and a collaborative approach to working with colleagues

Nice To Haves

Comfort speaking onstage/on-camera
Spanish and Cantonese language skills

Responsibilities

Assigning and editing breaking news, features, and investigations
Shaping strategy and planning around major events such as next year’s midterms and gubernatorial elections
Participate in live in-person and virtual events
Juggle some reporting and writing alongside editing and managing