JOB SUMMARY: This dynamic role will write, assign and edit a high volume of daily content for Us Weekly digital (UsMagazine.com) and its brand-new What to Watch vertical. The position will manage two freelance writers and needs to be able to work independently and efficiently. They will also need to apply SEO best practices and analytics to inform and optimize coverage. The new "What to Watch" vertical focuses on TV and streaming programming, episode guides, how-to-watch, scheduling information and more.
Note that the "What to Watch" section does not include original interviews, features, reviews, essays, analysis, breaking TV/entertainment news, or content on the personal lives of stars, all of which is handled by a separate Us Weekly team.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Two freelance writers
ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:
Exceptional writing and editing skills, including five years of relevant experience
Passionate and knowledgeable about popular culture and entertainment
Ability to produce a high volume of smart, ready-to-publish content.
Proficiency in SEO best practices, particularly in the crafting of headlines, meta descriptions, story structure and in the scheduling of content and content updates.
An understanding of the television ecosystem and knowledge of the sources of information and press offices
Familiarity with content management systems, photo editing tools, and web analytics.
Exceptional project management and organizational skills.
Availability to work full-time, Monday through Friday, with flexibility for live coverage of major entertainment events (e.g., award shows, premieres, finales), including occasional work outside standard hours.
Other duties as assigned by management
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Strong grounding in journalism ethics, and an unwavering commitment to accurate and ethical journalism.
Must have solid news judgment. and a broad knowledge of headlines.
An understanding of audience trends and digital media. Ability to correctly identify audiences for selected stories. Ability to use social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter to reach audiences.
Ability to prioritize and to work under and meet short- and long-deadlines in a fast-paced, data-driven work environment and to accurately fact-check information
Excellent interpersonal, problem solving, and team player skills. Excellent communication and active listening skills.
Ability to interact professionally and build relationships and develop sources with a diverse array of people.
Computer proficiency (MS Office, Digital editing, web search, databases)
Ability to work a flexible schedule which may include nights and weekends
Must be able to work remotely while contributing to a team environment
Regular and reliable attendance.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor's degree (B.A. or B.S.) from an accredited college or university; preferably in journalism, English or communications, or the equivalent education, experience, skills and knowledge needed to perform the tasks and responsibilities of the position.
At least five (5) years of relevant writing and editing experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Salary Range: $80,000-$85,000