Opinion Columnist Assistant

The New York Times Opinion section is looking for an editorial assistant to support Times columnists Bret Stephens and David French. This is a great opportunity for someone who is organized, has digital experience and has broad-ranging news interests, with a special curiosity about foreign policy, politics, law and religion. 

The editorial assistant must have a sharp eye for detail; a sense of fresh arguments and good writing; superb research skills; a devotion to the highest standards of accuracy and verification; the ability to dive into unfamiliar material on deadline; discretion in handling sensitive editorial material; familiarity with multiple social media platforms; and an interest in opinion journalism. 

This is a hybrid position based in New York City and includes regular attendance in the office each week per your departmental guidance.

To apply, in addition to your cover letter, please submit three writing samples. Please note the following:

• We are looking for clips that demonstrate your ability to generate ideas, explain complex subjects or do original reporting.
• We have a strong preference for published clips, but are open to receiving one unpublished writing sample. Articles from college or community newspapers count as published clips. 
• If the writing sample does not contain your byline but you drafted large parts of it, please briefly explain your precise role. Similarly, if it is a joint byline, please explain your role.
• Please do not send more than three writing samples and please do not send links. Please submit your samples in a PDF bundle, please do not send links.

Responsibilities:

• Remain current on the news in coverage areas and suggest ideas for columns
• Conduct research for the columnists
• Verify the accuracy of the information contained in draft columns and occasional guest essays, and write summaries 
• Post on multiple social media platforms and collaborate with the Opinion Audience team on deepening relationships with readers
• Some clerical responsibilities
• Demonstrate support and understanding of our 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 Assistant Editor, Opinion Operations 

Basic Qualifications:

• 1+ years in journalism, conducting research and fact-checking or text editing for published media
• Flexibility to occasionally work weekends (2-3 hours) and evenings as column schedules or news cycle determine

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Knowledge of Opinion's columnist roster and frequent contributors to the section
• Familiarity with Times Style and the newspaper's standards and ethics guidelines
• An appreciation for Opinion journalism and understanding of the broader media landscape

This position is represented by the NewsGuild of NY.

REQ-018469