Freelance Performance Testing Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

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Lead the future of product testing in the home care space. As Director of the Home Care & Cleaning Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, you'll shape trusted consumer guidance across cleaning products, appliances, and tools-combining scientific rigor, hands-on testing, and compelling storytelling to help millions of readers make smarter decisions every day.

About Hearst Magazines (Why Us?)

Hearst Magazines' portfolio of more than 30 iconic brands in the U.S.-including Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Esquire, Good Housekeeping, Harper's BAZAAR, and Popular Mechanics - inspires, entertains, and builds new and bold experiences for an engaged and growing audience across digital, video, social and print, reaching nearly 130 million readers and site visitors each month. With sophisticated content creation, cutting-edge technology, and industry-leading data capabilities, we make media and products that move people across all platforms. We are a global media company that publishes nearly 200 magazine editions and 175 websites around the world-and together, we are shaping what's next.

Key Responsibilities (What You'll Do)

• Lead the full product testing lifecycle across home care and cleaning categories-from test design and sample procurement through in-lab and consumer testing, analysis, and editorial review.
• Develop and oversee rigorous testing protocols using industry and proprietary methods while ensuring tests meet high standards and deadlines.
• Serve as a subject-matter expert for Good Housekeeping content related to home care and cleaning, contributing insights across print, digital, and video platforms.
• Partner with editorial, design, photo, research, and video teams to translate complex test results into clear, engaging consumer guidance.
• Represent Good Housekeeping as a trusted authority at industry events, conferences, media appearances, and brand initiatives.
• Lead execution of key franchise programs, including the Good Housekeeping Cleaning Awards and product evaluations for the Good Housekeeping Seal.
• Manage and mentor a team of engineers, analysts, and freelance contributors while guiding lab operations and equipment planning.
• Monitor industry trends, safety developments, and emerging innovations to inform testing strategy and maintain Good Housekeeping's leadership in consumer trust.
• Comfortable appearing on camera with the ability to represent Good Housekeeping as an expert through video content, including media appearances, hosting, demonstrations, and expert segments.

Qualifications (What We're Looking For)

• Deep expertise in laboratory or product testing environments, ideally within consumer products, independent testing organizations, media labs, or manufacturing.
• Strong hands-on experience evaluating cleaning products, appliances, or home care technologies, with an understanding of performance testing and product claims.
• Ability to interpret data and translate findings into clear, actionable insights for consumer audiences.
• Strategic thinker with strong integrity, attention to detail, and commitment to maintaining rigorous testing standards.
• Experience leading or mentoring teams, contributors, or cross-functional partners in collaborative environments.
• Comfortable serving as a public-facing expert, including participating in video, live events, media opportunities, and industry conversations.
• Highly organized and adaptable, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Curiosity and enthusiasm for home care products, scientific testing, and the evolving media landscape.
• This role is based in New York, NY and operates on a hybrid schedule with four days per week in the office.

Benefits (What We Offer)

• Work with the Best: Collaborate with top-tier professionals across media, advertising, tech, fashion, lifestyle, and publishing, shaping the future of these dynamic industries.
• Grow Your Skills: Unlock your potential with access to innovative training programs, immersive workshops, and exclusive industry events.
• Work-Life Harmony: Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid work, empowering you to balance professional success with personal priorities.
• Foster Connection & Belonging: Join our Employee Resource Groups and help create a welcoming workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered.
• Wellness First: Prioritize your well-being with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance from Day 1.
• Plan for Your Financial Future: Enjoy competitive financial perks, including a 401(k) plan with a generous company match.

The base salary for this role is between $116,000 - $140,000. The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as: transferable skills, work experience, business needs and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

Hearst is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.