Assistant Editor

The Office of Communications and Public Engagement Assistant Editor works under the supervision of the Senior Managing Editor and collaborates on all news content, Liberty Journal assignments and related projects for the Liberty News staff. The Assistant Editor will also aid in the supervision, quality control, and proofing of weekly writing assignments. In addition, the Assistant Editor will function as an additional news writer and contributor for weekly news articles and press releases while lending support to administrative duties to both the Senior Managing Editor and Director of the Liberty Champion.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Works in collaboration with and under supervision of the Senior Managing Editor.
• Liaison for Senior Managing Editor with LU News Team and key stakeholders in LU Marketing, Academics, and Senior Leadership.
• Ensures quality control, proofreading and accuracy, attention to detail, content scheduling and project management to ensure all deadlines are met.
• Responsible for writing and editing original news stories, Liberty Journal articles, university press releases, and commissioning of photography and video elements to supplement content.
• Provides additional administrative support and assistance to Senior Managing Editor and Director of Liberty Champion.
• Strictly adheres to Liberty University policies, representing the university in an exemplary manner.
• Works effectively as a team member, embracing and fostering LU’s mission.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Assistant Editor will work under the supervision of the Senior Managing Editor and assist in the supervision of the news writing team, student workers, and weekly content scheduling.

QUALIFICATIONS AND CREDENTIALSEducation and Experience

Minimum Qualifications: Working knowledge and proficiency with Microsoft Office, InDesign, and other Adobe Suite products and publishing tools. Proficient in AP style. Must have excellent communication skills with proven work experience as a writer with editing skills. Working knowledge of photography and video components needed for digital messaging, web, and social media platforms. Must have the ability to adapt to an ever-changing work environment and prioritize projects while multitasking. Four-year degree in the area of journalism, public relations, or similar field.

Preferred Qualifications:

Five years or more experience as a professional writer, editor, or publisher. Significant work experience in the news and publishing industry with some background in public relations and media in a corporate and academic environment. Must be able to adapt and learn the Liberty online tools and systems quickly.

ABILITIES AND COMPETENCIES ESSENTIAL TO THE FUNCTION OF THE JOB

Communication and Comprehension

• Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing to convey clear, well-articulated information.
• Ability to understand, speak, and write English in order to convey messages and correspond in an articulate and professional manner.
• Possess public communication skills that allow professional representation of Liberty University to a variety of business, government and community customers and associates.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Computer and scheduling skills.

Problem Solving

• Intuitively able to reason, analyze information and events, and apply judgment in order to solve problems of both a routine and complex nature.

Physical and Sensory Abilities

• Required to travel to local and campus locations.

• May be required to sit to perform deskwork or type on a keyboard.
• Regularly required to hear and speak in order to effectively communicate orally.
• Regularly required to stand, walk, and climb stairs to move about the campus.
• Handle materials, reach overhead, kneel or stoop in order to conduct business.
• Regularly lift 10 or fewer pounds.

WORKING CONDITIONSWork Environment

The working environment in which one will typically perform the essential functions of this position is a climate-controlled setting. It is well lighted and the noise level is moderate. Working environment also includes facilitation of events outdoors occasionally.

Driving Requirements

Use of one’s personal vehicle (or LU vehicles) may be required for travel in the performance of the essential functions of this position. Proof of a valid Virginia driver’s license, an acceptable DMV record, and liability insurance is required.