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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 ...

Our Copy Desk sits within the Narrative and Editorial team, and is responsible for copy editing all kinds of marketing content-blog posts, guides, reports, infographics, customer stories, emails, web ...

The New York Times Politics desk is seeking a Senior Staff Editor to anchor our evening operation, editing news, features and live stories across our platforms. This essential role requires an ...

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 ...

Senior News Editor

$100K - $115K/yr

This role demands editors who can run a national news desk at full throttle-making high-stakes editorial decisions in real time, rewriting aggressively, and delivering journalism that competes head ...

Night Editor, Politics

New York, NY ยท On-site

$124K - $135K/yr

The New York Times Politics desk is seeking a Senior Staff Editor to anchor our evening operation, editing news, features and live stories across our platforms. This essential role requires an ...

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 ...

Editor - Spring/Klein -- $58,000 - $73,000 based on experience Top News Organization, Meaningful ... Interview news sources in person (occasionally from the desk) and from a variety of perspectives to ...

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 News Editor

Chicago, IL ยท On-site +1

$77K - $85K/yr

The editor will oversee the work of General Assignment reporters on the News Desk by assigning them stories, guiding their reporting and editing their news copy for print and online to ensure it ...

The editor will oversee the work of General Assignment reporters on the News Desk by assigning them stories, guiding their reporting and editing their news copy for print and online to ensure it ...

Assistant News Editor

Chicago, IL ยท On-site +1

$77K - $85K/yr

The editor will oversee the work of General Assignment reporters on the News Desk by assigning them stories, guiding their reporting and editing their news copy for print and online to ensure it ...

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Desk Editor information

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How much do desk editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 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.

Are editors still in demand?

Editors remain in demand across various industries such as publishing, media, and digital content, especially with the growth of online platforms requiring quality control and content management. Strong editing skills, familiarity with editing software, and adaptability to new media formats are valuable for job seekers in this field.

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 does a desk editor do?

A desk editor is responsible for reviewing, editing, and coordinating news stories or content before publication. They verify facts, ensure clarity and accuracy, and may assign stories or manage deadlines using editing tools like content management systems. This role requires strong editing skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under tight schedules.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior executives, specialized surgeons, and successful entrepreneurs can earn $500,000 or more annually. Certain roles in finance, technology, and law, especially with bonuses or profit sharing, also reach this level, often requiring advanced skills, extensive experience, and professional certifications.

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 kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, high-paying roles like senior editors, media directors, or executive producers can earn $150,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, leadership skills, and advanced knowledge of industry tools. These positions often require strong management abilities, a proven track record, and sometimes advanced degrees or certifications.

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:
Infographic showing various Desk Editor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,890 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
News Editor, Science

News Editor, Science

The New York Times

New York, NY โ€ข On-site

Other

Re-posted 4 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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