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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The hiring range for this position in Los Angeles, CA is $58,630 to $78,650 per year based on a 40-hour work week. The amount of hours scheduled per week may vary based on business needs. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.