Shaping editorial strategy, in collaboration with team, based on key trends in field.
Timely, stellar content for print and digital products.
Superb editing, reporting, fact-checking, and writing of content, including event coverage.
Assessing editorial pitches quickly yet thoroughly and excellent news judgement.
Managing competing priorities, deadlines, ensure smooth workflow and meeting deadlines.
Recruiting, working with, and cultivating a diverse and deep pool of freelance writers and other contributors.
Superior project management skills to oversee large editorial packages and special reports.
Mentoring junior editors as needed.
Identifying key trends and issues of interest in the field and shaping them into appealing, coherent editorial story packages.
Developing editorial scopes, assigning stories, and editing, fact-checking, and proofreading copy in accordance with house style.
Contributing reporting as needed for Call Number.
Collaborating with colleagues to ensure content and processes are current while adhering to budget.
This position is a regular full-time position based in our Chicago office.
ALA staff are currently working on a hybrid schedule. Please note that although we have a generous telecommuting policy for our employees, we do not have any truly remote positions in states outside of our workplace sites.
ALA currently requires that employees be fully vaccinated as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Proof of vaccination will be required on or before start date.
All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check and proof of your eligibility to work in the United States.
Starting salary range negotiable from the high-60s, based on relevant experience. ALA has an excellent benefit package that includes flexible work schedules, medical, dental, generous paid vacation, a retirement annuity and a 35-hour work week. You may also qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).
FOR CONSIDERATION:
Apply online including a cover letter, résumé and three writing/editing samples.
Or
Send résumé, cover letter, and three writing/editing samples to:
American Library Association Human Resources Ref: sreditdigitalAL or sreditAL Email: aralicea@ala.org
The American Library Association is an equal opportunity employer: Disability/Veteran.
Requirement Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in journalism, English, communications, media, or related.
Minimum 5 years of experience as an editor for print and/or digital publishing outlet.
Sophisticated communication skills, both oral and written.
Attention to detail, ability to exercise independent judgment, discretion, and problem-solving skills on both the interpersonal and technological level.
Ability to multitask and exercise agility and flexibility with multiple deadlines.
Excellent organizational ability while maintaining good internal communication.
Familiarity with the library profession and community a plus.
Experience in tracking, evaluating, and reporting on digital metrics.
Skill and experience in cross-platform content planning and production (e.g., print, digital, audio).
Previous work on magazines preferred.
Familiarity with the library profession and community a plus.
The American Library Association (ALA) will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2026 with an historic fundraising campaign for its endowment. You will lead this targeted fundraising effort along with our senior leadership team. As development director, you would also develop strategies for major gifts from foundations and individual donors, implement strategies for increasing giving to the Association’s ongoing annual fund, and build partnerships to increase corporate support from our Library Champions.
