Managing Editor, IRW

Investigative Reporting Workshop Managing EditorThe Investigative Reporting Workshop, a nonprofit news organization based at American University, seeks an experienced, dynamic Managing Editor to lead the production of ambitious, high impact investigative journalism and help shape the future of the field. This is a senior leadership role for an editor who thrives in the intersection of editorial excellence, innovation, and mentorship. We are interested in a calm, collaborative, and detail-oriented team player with the people skills to earn the trust of both students and seasoned investigative reporters.The Managing Editor will oversee daily newsroom operations while driving major reporting projects in collaboration with leading news organizations. They will play a central role in developing the next generation of investigative journalists and expanding the Workshop's reach, partnerships, and impact. This is a rare opportunity to shape consequential journalism while investing in the future of the profession. The Managing Editor will help define editorial strategy, expand the reach of investigative reporting, and ensure that vital, accountability-driven stories are produced and seen.Essential Functions:Lead day-to-day editorial operationsHelp to conceive, assign, and edit complex investigative projects from pitch through publicationRecruit, hire, and mentor student and early-career journalists, pairing them with partner newsrooms on high-level reporting collaborationsBuild and manage relationships with external partnersOversee editorial budgets, timelines, and production workflowsEnsure alignment between editorial output and the organization's broader mission and strategic prioritiesCompetencies:Acquiring and analyzing informationPrioritizing and organizingDisplaying creativitySupporting coworkersActing ethically and with integrityServing customersSupporting a diverse and inclusive communityPosition Type/Expected Hours of Work:Full-time35 hours per weekThis position is in person and eligible for Hybrid 1 schedule (on-campus 3 - 4 days per week)Location is at the Investigative Reporting Workshop at American University School of Communication (SOC) in Washington, D.C.Continuation of the program/position is contingent upon external fundingSalary Range:$78,000.00 - $90,000.00 annuallyRequired Education and Experience:Bachelor's degree or equivalent5 - 8 years of relevant experienceSubstantial experience in investigative or enterprise journalism, with a track record of impactful, high-quality workProven leadership in managing editors, reporters, and cross-functional teams on complex, deadline-driven projectsStrong editorial judgment and the ability to elevate ambitious reporting to the highest standardsExperience working collaboratively across organizations or in partnership-driven journalismDemonstrated commitment to mentoring and developing emerging journalistsFluency in digital storytelling, newsroom tools, and evolving industry practicesA calm, collaborative, and detail-oriented team player with the people skills to earn the trust of both students and seasoned investigative reportersExceptional candidates with important skills that do not precisely match the above description are welcome to apply and tell us about yourselfPreferred Education and Experience:Master's degree or equivalentPrevious work at a nonprofit newsroom is a plusAdditional Eligibility Qualifications:Applicants are encouraged to submit a resume, cover letter, and links to at least three recent stories you have produced or editedEmployees in the School of Communication are required to work on campus in a full presence modality for the first month of their employmentOther Duties:Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without noticeBenefitsAU offers a competitive benefits package. Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.Other Details:Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background checkEmployees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the universityAmerican University is an E-Verify employerCurrent American University EmployeesAmerican University current employees must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log into Workday and select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings.Contact UsFor more information or assistance with the American University careers site, email theworkline@american.edu.American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual's genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.