Associate Editor

$60,000 - $70,000/Yr

American Astronomical Society - Cambridge, MA

Full-time - Senior

Cambridge, MA

5,001-10,000 employees

Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations

About the position

The Associate Editor at the American Astronomical Society (AAS) will be responsible for commissioning, editing, and overseeing the production of articles related to amateur astronomy for the Sky and Telescope (S&T) team. This role requires collaboration with the editorial team and contributors globally, ensuring clarity and accuracy in conveying astronomical concepts. The position is based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and involves attending various meetings and events as needed.

Responsibilities

• Edit feature articles on topics including observing, history, the astronomical community, and cultural lore.
• Edit a selection of observing-related columns/departments in the magazine on a monthly/bimonthly basis.
• Edit regular observing column for S&T's website and other online content as needed.
• Second-edit other editors' articles for style and accuracy.
• Write, edit, and/or help create diagrams for press releases on topical celestial events.
• Research and write own features or other articles for print/web as needed.
• Commission content from authors and astrophotographers, issue contracts, and track submissions.
• Acquire images and permissions, keep article larder stocked for assigned departments.
• Work with the Art Department to brainstorm on ideas for artwork to support content.
• Represent S&T at the annual Northeast Astronomy Forum (NEAF) trade show, star parties, club meetings, and other events.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years' experience in amateur astronomy required.
• Deep, sustained experience with all aspects of amateur astronomy; experience with astrophotography desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to convey astronomical concepts with clarity, accuracy, and approachability.
• Formal experience with science communication and/or science journalism preferred.
• Excellent writing, editing, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong reporting, researching, and fact-checking skills.
• Highly organized, self-motivated, and flexible.
• Impeccable attention to detail.
• Aptitude for juggling tasks and priorities as well as meeting fast-paced deadlines.
• Demonstrated enthusiasm, collaborative spirit, and creativity.
• Knowledge of WordPress and Adobe Creative Suite experience preferred; willingness to learn additional software tools as required.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with astrophotography
• Formal experience with science communication and/or science journalism

Benefits

• Commuter assistance
• Paid holidays
• Disability insurance
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Life insurance