The Daily Signal Media Group seeks an experienced State News Editor to help guide and elevate our coverage of state-level policy and politics. This independent contractor role oversees work produced by state correspondents, collaborates closely with Daily Signal editors, and ensures our state reporting breaks news, drives impact, and delivers scoops that matter.

This position is ideal for an editor with strong news judgment, sharp editing instincts, and a desire to help shape state coverage that influences national debate.

About the Role

The State News Editor works alongside the Politics Editor to curate state-focused reporting, refine story pitches, and ensure consistent production of high-impact journalism. This contractor will edit stories, mentor correspondents, and help bring overlooked state stories to a national audience.

The ideal contractor has experience editing news, overseeing reporters, and working in a fast-paced digital environment.

Responsibilities

  • Edit stories from state correspondents, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and alignment with Daily Signal style and standards.
  • Exercise strong news judgment by suggesting new stories, angles, and follow-up reporting.
  • Provide substantive feedback on assignments, including source suggestions and reporting guidance.
  • Write compelling headlines and select appropriate photos.
  • Review content for factual accuracy and potential legal or ethical issues, flagging concerns as necessary.
  • Ensure content adheres to AP and in-house style and is optimized for digital platforms.
  • Participate in regular pitch meetings with correspondents and the Politics Editor.
  • Coordinate with Daily Signal digital staff to optimize reach across platforms.
  • Assist with newsletter content as assigned.
  • Contribute to impact and analytics reporting, identifying opportunities to improve reach and engagement.

Qualifications

  • 3+ years of journalism experience, including at least 2 years in an editing role.
  • Exceptional editing, writing, and communication skills.
  • Strong knowledge of politics and public policy.
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments under tight deadlines.
  • Familiarity with digital media, WordPress, and SEO best practices.
  • Highly organized, detail-oriented, and a strong team player.
  • Comfortable providing constructive feedback and guiding correspondents.
  • Flexible and willing to work evenings/weekends when major state news breaks.

Contract Structure & Compensation

This is a 1099 independent contractor role and does not include benefits.

  • Competitive contract rate, commensurate with experience.
  • Flexible schedule; contractor must be available for timely editing as news dictates.

How to Apply

Applicants should submit the following information to [email protected].

  • A résumé demonstrating editing experience
  • Links to edited work or reporting samples
  • A brief statement on your interest in shaping state political coverage