Managing Editor, IRW

Investigative Reporting Workshop Managing Editor The 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 operations Help to conceive, assign, and edit complex investigative projects from pitch through publication Recruit, hire, and mentor student and early-career journalists, pairing them with partner newsrooms on high-level reporting collaborations Build and manage relationships with external partners Oversee editorial budgets, timelines, and production workflows Ensure alignment between editorial output and the organization's broader mission and strategic priorities Competencies:Acquiring and analyzing information Prioritizing and organizing Displaying creativity Supporting coworkers Acting ethically and with integrity Serving customers Supporting a diverse and inclusive community Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:Full-time 35 hours per week This 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 funding Salary Range:$78,000.00 - $90,000.00 annually Required Education and Experience:Bachelor's degree or equivalent 5 - 8 years of relevant experience Substantial experience in investigative or enterprise journalism, with a track record of impactful, high-quality work Proven leadership in managing editors, reporters, and cross-functional teams on complex, deadline-driven projects Strong editorial judgment and the ability to elevate ambitious reporting to the highest standards Experience working collaboratively across organizations or in partnership-driven journalism Demonstrated commitment to mentoring and developing emerging journalists Fluency 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 reporters Exceptional candidates with important skills that do not precisely match the above description are welcome to apply and tell us about yourself Preferred Education and Experience:Master's degree or equivalent Previous work at a nonprofit newsroom is a plus Additional Eligibility Qualifications:Applicants are encouraged to submit a resume, cover letter, and links to at least three recent stories you have produced or edited Employees in the School of Communication are required to work on campus in a full presence modality for the first month of their employment Other 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 notice BenefitsAU 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 check Employees 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 university American University is an E-Verify employer Current American University Employees American 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. 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