News Editor

News Editor Job Description

Reporting to the Editor in Chief and the Managing Editor, the news editor directs The Daily Aztec’s news section, assigns stories to writers, directs news content, assists writers through the writing process and with contacting sources, edits stories for GSP and AP style, posts final versions of stories on The Daily Aztec’s website and performs layout of front page and news section pages in The Daily Aztec’s print version.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Primary Functions

  • Decides what stories and topics to cover, assigns writers to write stories
  • Helps writers learn how to write in Associated Press style and how to properly construct a news story
  • Offers guidance on what sources writers should contact
  • Holds meetings with writers on at least a weekly basis
  • Recruits writers and holds individual meetings with writers to go over edits as often as possible
  • Coordinates with writers and sources in Associated Students and campus administration

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum & Preferred Requirements

Experience:

  • Must have been a writer at The Daily Aztec for at least one semester
  • Preferably have been a writer for The Daily Aztec’s news section
  • Must have already taken JMS 310W, or be taking the class during first semester as news editor

Education:

  • Must be a current San Diego State student, 6 units.
  • Must know AP Style

Trainings:

  • Must complete Computer Security training within 30 days of hire

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS

  • Must be capable of maintaining positive working relationships with writers and other editors
  • Must be able to exercise tact and exhibit sound professional judgment
  • Strong organizational skills required. Must be able to follow oral and written directions and help writers follow stories through to completion
  • Must be professional and courteous at all times
  • Must be able to work well with different work styles
  • Must be able to work efficiently and show initiative

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

  • Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to relate and communicate effectively with a diverse population of students, staff, faculty, colleagues and guests
  • Must have strong English language and AP style skills skills and the ability to read, write and verbally communicate at a level appropriate to the duties of the position
  • Ability to operate a computer, proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and ability to learn and utilize new software programs
  • Ability to gather and organize data, draw logical conclusions and discern implications
  • Well organized, ability to effectively multi-task, ability to prioritize work, problem solve, make decisions and meet scheduled deadlines under pressure
  • Ability to maintain high level of confidentiality
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously

SCHEDULE & WORKING CONDITIONS

This is a part-time position with expected hours to be worked Monday through Friday, with some work to be completed during non-normal business hours, such as late nights.

WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

General office environment. Work is generally sedentary in nature, but may require standing and walking around campus. The working environment is generally favorable. Lighting and temperature are adequate, and there are no hazardous or unpleasant conditions caused by noise, dust, etc. Work is generally performed within an office environment, with standard office equipment available. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position requires the individual to spend long hours sitting and using office equipment and computers. This person will also spend time filing and have to do some lifting of supplies and materials from time to time, including banker boxes and files.

RELATIONSHIPS

Inside the Organization:

  • Reports to the Editor in Chief, and Managing Editor
  • Works closely with Assistant News Editor
  • Interacts with other editors
  • Oversees news writers

Outside the Organization:

  • Interacts with students, faculty, staff, Associated Students, University departments and organizations