Part-Time Night Editor

Overview

In the 16 years since it was founded, VTDigger has become Vermont’s essential source of news and investigation — and a model for sustainable, nonprofit journalism across the country. We work to promote our mission of producing rigorous journalism that explains complex issues, promotes public accountability and fosters democratic and civic engagement each and every day. VTDigger’s part-time night editor works with a team of editors and reporters to publish thorough, accurate, accessible, well-written copy with a top-notch visual presentation — and to share this work with our audience through newsletters, social media and other avenues.

The night editor is responsible for final reads, minor rewrites, fact-checking, identifying errors and omissions, conforming to VTDigger’s style, and working with reporters to ensure the fairness and accuracy of stories. Given VTDigger’s commitment to better serving the communities we cover, this person is expected to edit with an equity and inclusion lens. The night editor takes ownership of the presentation of stories on VTDigger’s website and has a variety of responsibilities related to social media, newsletters, graphics and opinion.

After the rest of the desk leaves for the day, this person is the editor in charge, keeping track of breaking news and other developments and determining how best to address them. This can include writing briefs and short stories.

• Edits and digitally publishes stories and opinion pieces to our content management system
• Manages the website and monitors breaking news and developments
• Writes briefs and short stories as necessary
• Addresses urgent tips and correction requests
• Builds and schedules daily and weekly newsletters
• In coordination with the Digital Editor, shares stories on social media
• Communicates professionally with sources, readers and colleagues
• When able to attend and participate in newsroom, all-staff and, as needed, cross-functional team meetings
• Attends VTDigger events, as needed

• Commitment and dedication to VTDigger’s mission
• Exceptional attention to detail
• Strong knowledge of digital publishing platforms and commitment to continuous learning and innovation
• Commitment to cultivating and developing an inclusive culture and working relationships across the organization and enhancing a sense of belonging
• Communicative across the organization, with employees and with VTDigger’s audiences
• Maintaining high standards of expectations for themselves, their team, the leadership and organization itself
• Maintaining a broad understanding of the organization’s goals
• Collaborative with team members and ensuring respectful teamwork across the organization

• Professional reporting and/or editing experience
• Possesses excellent organizational, communication, interpersonal skills and attention to detail
• Ability to meet short deadlines and work with little supervision
• Knowledge of Associated Press style
• An understanding of digital presentation and production
• Clear understanding of journalism principles, ethics, standards and style
• Knowledge of analytics, Adobe Suite, Wordpress CMS, digital management tools preferred but not required
• Curiosity, flexibility and a willingness to tackle stories over a range of subjects

Our office is located in Montpelier, Vermont. We are open to the night editor living elsewhere — so long as they understand this region or are committed to learning about it.

The night editor typically works from 5 pm to 9 p.m. on weeknights, but exact hours may vary based on news needs. Some weekend work and flexibility is required.

Work involves accomplishing most duties from a seated or standing position. There is potential for eye strain from reading detailed materials on a computer screen. Deadlines, workloads during peak periods, and changing priorities may cause increased stress levels. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer. VTDigger does not provide visa sponsorship.