Digital Editor, National Geographic

Job Summary:

The Digital Editor contributes to and executes National Geographic’s visually rich and scientifically sourced digital storytelling. This editing role makes data-informed content decisions that drive results by creating relevant, timely, and conversation-worthy content with a National Geographic lens across platforms.

The editor will spearhead content creation from planning through publication, pitching content targeted for platform-specific audiences that meet acquisition goals. They will adhere to editorial standards that drive results by being selective about story assignments, intentional with story structure, and creative in experimentation to advance the digital content offering. They should have a keen understanding for how content is consumed on different digital platforms, and specifically how it should be optimized for Search and Social platforms.

 While this digital editor will be expected to collaborate with editors across the entire editorial operation to adhere to digital best practices, they may also be called upon to host or contribute to social video explainers.

Responsibilities:

• Pitch and suggest framing for pitches at regularly scheduled pitch meetings
• Identify stories to experiment with that align with each of our KPIs as well as our core topic areas. These include science, environment, health, history & culture, and animals.
• Build and maintain freelance network of writers
• Participate in regular digital editorial pitch meetings throughout the week, being a leader in the conversation and executing on decisions made in it
• Collaborate with the Digital Engagement Team to advance editorial Search strategy, craft headlines and new digital tactics to try
• Collaborate with the Editorial Newsletter team to drive subscriptions and reader engagement
• Regularly collaborate with the Social team on digital content ideas, as well as bigger digital projects in alignment with the Social team
• Meet weekly with Manager of Digital Editorial for constant feedback on performance and what new topic areas or formats to experiment with

Minimum Requirements:

• Minimum of 3 years of editorial experience in digital publishing.
• A strong background in editing with a broad knowledge of search engine optimization and a proven track record of irresistible headline writing are musts.
• Future-forward digital editing skills, experience using data-driving tools, ability to evolve story ideas out of brainstorms, ability to write digitally-optimized headlines and text
• Highly developed ability to recognize and create story ideas, including ideas with major visual and multimedia components, a commitment to diversity and inclusion & the ability to work cooperatively with a variety of personalities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience creating content for social media
• Keen sense of the competitive media landscape, tried tactics and industry trends
• Understanding of priorities and demands of a large umbrella company, such as The Walt Disney Company
• Proven patience working effectively within an ever-changing environment

Education Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree

Preferred Education:

• Concentration in journalism, and/or digital media
• Experience with social video ideation and promotion
• Experience in National Geographic content areas

The hiring range for this position in Washington, D.C. is $78,200 to $104,800 per year. 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.