Associate Editor Copy Desk

The Associate Editor, Copy Desk, works with other copy editors in ensuring the overall editorial quality and accuracy, in addition to search optimization, of ESPN-generated written and video content. On a daily basis, this person will assess content from a variety of sources (news stories, analysis, push notifications, video captions, etc.) and collaborate with writers and editors – asking questions, fixing errors and overall improving copy. ESPN deals with a large quantity of content, a person in this role will need to be able to prioritize based on news value, placement and audience targets. This position will require working a mix of nights and weekends. This position will be onsite at our LA office.

Responsibilities:  

• Editing and polishing articles (including headlines, captions and link text), checking for accuracy, proper grammar, search optimization, appropriateness and style.    
• Helping monitor copy flow and assignments as directed by the copy desk leadership, as well as editing headlines/blurbs for index pages, alerts and video modules.   
• Work shifts require night and weekend duty. Occasional holiday work also required. 

Basic requirements:  

• Has a minimum of 1 year of experience editing content at a high-level media outlet
• Has advanced competency in writing, editing, reporting and SEO fundamentals
• Has a basic appreciation of sports and popular culture and contributes to an understanding of the tastes of ESPN’s audiences  
• Has some news journalism experience and good news judgment; understands assigned sport(s) from a journalistic point of view  
• Has a basic understanding of HTML and related web authoring tools and software  
• Strong English grammar and organizational skills, particularly as it applies to grammar and syntax; thorough familiarity with leading media style guides  

Preferred requirements:

• Familiarity with most major news sites and fluency in electronic newsgathering techniques.  
• Strong understanding of most major sports, as well as a working knowledge of athletes, coaches, league operations and the like.  

Basic education: 

• High School Diploma

Preferred Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, English or a related field or a high school diploma and a suitable combination of related training and experience.  

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