Grist is a nonprofit, independent media organization dedicated to highlighting climate solutions and uncovering environmental injustices. Since 1999, we have used the power of journalism to engage the public about the perils of the most existential threat we face. Now that three-quarters of Americans recognize that climate change is happening, we’ve shifted our focus to show that a just and sustainable future is within reach. Grist’s editorial team leads the conversation on climate change and climate action, producing daily news and analysis pieces, as well as video and longform stories, on humanity’s attempt to grapple with the most critical issue it faces.

As Grist’s solutions lab, Fix tells imaginative stories that envision promising ways forward. Half network-building and half storytelling, the program identifies, celebrates, and connects solutions-oriented climate and justice leaders who are at the center of the story of progress — and in doing so, it introduces a whole new narrative of what’s possible to address climate change and build a better world.

Grist is seeking a senior editor to join the Fix storytelling team. This person will serve as the lead editor for reported pieces and other storytelling work, including the annual Grist 50 list of emerging climate leaders, Fix’s bimonthly digital magazines, the Imagine 2200 climate-fiction contest, and other emerging projects. 

The senior editor will work with staff writers and freelancers to craft and refine pitches, define reporting targets, and ensure that published work is both compelling and accurate. We are looking for someone who is passionate about mentoring and coaching writers at all experience levels, committed to achieving diversity among our sources and writers, and excited to work with us to push our ambitions around creating bolder, more innovative storytelling work. 

Additionally, the senior editor will collaborate with the storytelling team editor and managing editor to define Fix’s digital magazine themes and approaches, as well as Fix’s audience strategy. The ideal candidate has strong editing credentials, and a desire to experiment and try new forms of storytelling. On a highly collaborative team, we value the ability to recognize good ideas wherever they come from and to push people to develop kernels of ideas into impactful projects.

Previous experience reporting or editing environmental justice stories is a plus.

Responsibilities include:

• Assign and edit stories from Fix staff writers and freelancers, providing regular and consistent guidance and communication

• Manage pitches from freelance writers and identify/recruit new contributors

• Coordinate with our managing editor to set and maintain deadlines

• Mentor writers, including freelancers, with a commitment to diversifying the pool of writers working in climate journalism

• Contribute editing to both the annual Grist 50 list and the Imagine 2200 climate-fiction contest

• Workshop and write headlines and digital copy for articles and projects

• Top edit additional copy from across the Fix team, including opinions pieces and event materials

• Participate in conceptualizing and realizing new multimedia projects, including but not limited to Fix’s digital magazine issues

• 8+ years of relevant journalism and/or editorial experience

• Experience working with both staff and freelance writers, including early-career journalists

• Proven ability to edit a variety of story types, from Q&As to splashy features, with an emphasis on journalistic integrity and sophistication of prose

• Strong attention to detail and fact-checking skills

• Fluency with technology, including experience with Slack, Gmail and other G Suite tools, WordPress, Asana, and other project-management and digital journalism tools

• Ability to work collaboratively

• Passion for our organization’s mission and work

Nice to have:

• Background in environmental justice or climate-science reporting and/or editing

• Experience conceiving and editing multimedia work (graphics, video, or photography)

• Ability to identify stories that will resonate with digital audiences, and sophistication in understanding how to reach those audiences

• Established relationships with a diverse roster of freelance writers 

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter explaining why you’re a great fit for this position. Please include links to a few stories you edited that represent your work, and an explanation of your role in those pieces. Applications without both a resume and cover letter will not be considered. 

Total compensation package includes a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision insurance. No phone calls, please.

Cultivating an inclusive staff is central to Grist’s focus on advancing equity. We’re interested in hearing from people who can work with diverse colleagues of varied experience. Candidates of all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. Grist is an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.