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Desk Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

In partnership with the desk head and deputy, the Science news editor will launch reporters on stories quickly and manage evolving coverage, often in collaboration with other desks and the top ...

The Managing Editor is the newsroom's operational and editorial quarterback-translating strategy ... Directly supervise or closely coordinate with the assignment desk * Manage: * crews and reporter ...

The Managing Editor is the newsroom's operational and editorial quarterback-translating strategy ... Directly supervise or closely coordinate with the assignment desk * Manage: * crews and reporter ...

The Managing Editor is the newsroom's operational and editorial quarterback-translating strategy ... Directly supervise or closely coordinate with the assignment desk * Manage: * crews and reporter ...

The Styles desk is seeking an experienced fashion news editor to help lead coverage of breaking news and enterprise reporting. This editor will be responsible for identifying, assigning and editing ...

There are opportunities to write and assist for both the News Producers and the Assignment Desk Editor as needed. This is a morning show position scheduled for 2am-11am. The candidate must have non ...

The Times's large readership takes enormous interest in the Science desk's stories about space and ... The editor will need to launch reporters on stories quickly, stay abreast of the desk's competitors ...

Assistant Fashion Editor

New York, NY ยท On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

The Styles desk is seeking an experienced fashion news editor to help lead coverage of breaking news and enterprise reporting. This editor will be responsible for identifying, assigning and editing ...

Website Editor

Lancaster, PA ยท On-site

$50K - $56K/yr

The producer must also maintain clear, consistent communication with the digital team, the copy desk, reporters and editors. In addition to the essential functions listed above, the employee is ...

This editor will work with the desk to inform coverage, both day-to-day and long-term, suggesting timely stories as well as evergreen topics, with an eye toward framing. They will help maximize ...

The producer must also maintain clear, consistent communication with the digital team, the copy desk, reporters and editors. In addition to the essential functions listed above, the employee is ...

Copy Editor

Coeur D Alene, ID ยท On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

Experience in pagination and or copy editing preferred; copy desk experience is a bonus. * Strong grasp of grammar, spelling, punctuation, and AP Style. * Proficiency in Adobe InDesign is required.

Assistant Editor, Space

New York, NY ยท On-site

$165K - $185K/yr

The Science desk is a highly collaborative team; editors and reporters will work closely together to produce varied storytelling forms that resonate with readers. The ideal candidate will have a ...

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Desk Editor information

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How much do desk editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for desk editor in the United States is $21.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Desk Editor vs Copy Editor?

AspectDesk EditorCopy Editor
CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or related fieldUsually a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or related area
Work EnvironmentNewsrooms, publishing houses, online mediaPublishing houses, magazines, online content platforms
Primary ResponsibilitiesOversees content flow, assigns stories, manages deadlinesFocuses on grammar, style, and accuracy of the text

While both roles are essential in publishing, a Desk Editor manages the overall content process and workflow, whereas a Copy Editor concentrates on refining the language and ensuring grammatical correctness. The Desk Editor has broader responsibilities related to content management, while the Copy Editor specializes in editing the text itself.

What are some common challenges faced by Desk Editors in managing breaking news situations?

Desk Editors often encounter the challenge of quickly verifying information while ensuring accuracy during breaking news events. They must coordinate with reporters, photographers, and other editors to gather reliable updates under tight deadlines. Balancing the need for speed with editorial standards requires strong communication and critical thinking skills. Additionally, Desk Editors may need to make fast editorial judgments about story prioritization and resource allocation, all while maintaining composure in a rapidly changing newsroom environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Desk Editor, and why are they important?

To succeed as a Desk Editor, you need strong editorial judgment, excellent language skills, and a background in journalism or communications. Familiarity with newsroom content management systems, editing software, and style guides such as AP or Reuters is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure accurate, timely, and high-quality news content, maintaining the credibility and reliability of the publication.

What is a Desk Editor?

A Desk Editor is a professional in a newsroom or publishing environment who reviews, edits, and oversees the content produced by reporters and writers before it is published or broadcast. They are responsible for ensuring accuracy, clarity, and adherence to editorial standards, as well as making decisions about story placement and headlines. Desk Editors often coordinate with reporters, assign stories, and may also fact-check and rewrite copy as needed. Their work is crucial in maintaining the quality and credibility of news organizations.
More about Desk Editor jobs
What states have the most Desk Editor jobs? States with the most job openings for Desk Editor jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Desk Editor jobs? For Desk Editor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
News Editor, Science

News Editor, Science

The New York Times

New York, NY โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

The New York Times is looking for an experienced editor to drive news coverage on its Science desk. Above all, you will need to possess excellent news judgment and a fast metabolism for executing on ideas quickly, with the ability to inspire (and cajole) a large group of reporters on a wide range of complex beats.ย 

In partnership with the desk head and deputy, the Science news editor will launch reporters on stories quickly and manage evolving coverage, often in collaboration with other desks and the top management of The Times. You are conversant in all of our Live and breaking news vehicles. You will be a master of language, able to uphold Times standards and style and handle both first and second edits.

The Science news editor will need to stay abreast of the desk's competitors and be determined to beat them, not just on quality but on speed. Beyond driving news coverage, the news editor will also participate in the general editing duties of the desk, running a small group of reporters across the full range of tempos and styles (news, explanatory, features, investigations).ย 

This is an in-office position, based in New York City, and includes regular attendance in the office four days each week. There may be some flexibility to work remotely per your departmental guidance.

Responsibilities:

  • Be a champion of scoops large and small, but also possess a passion for science coverage in all its forms.
  • Develop a strong relationship with every reporter on the desk, and fully manage a small group of reporters.
  • Guide other editors on the desk to particulate in quick-turn news.
  • Demonstrate support and understanding of the Times's value of journalistic independence and a strong commitment to our mission to seek the truth and help people understand the world.
  • You will report to the Science Editor.

Basic Qualifications:

  • 10+ years of editing experience at a major publication or media organization.
  • Experience directly managing and editing reporters and driving news.
  • Demonstrated excellence at editing under pressure and handling sensitive scoops.
  • Experience with framing and elevating stories for the broadest possible audience.
  • Experience with brainstorming ideas and coaching reporters through tough situations so they produce their best work.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 5+ years experience as an editor or reporter on scientific topics.ย 

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