Graphics Editor

POSITION SUMMARY

Quanta Magazine seeks an accomplished graphics editor to conceive, direct and create science infographics, motion graphics, data visualizations, interactives and other visual explanatory content. In addition to working closely with the magazine’s editors, writers, art director and audience team in conceptualizing, researching and designing graphics to support Quanta’s articles, the graphics editor will lead standalone visual explainer projects, some of which may involve assigning and overseeing the work of freelance artists, photographers and interactive designers.

The ideal candidate will be an experienced, creative, detail-oriented science visualizer and graphics editor with high standards in journalistic ethics and scientific accuracy. A refined sense of design and illustration is required, as is a great enthusiasm for the potential of the online medium to communicate ideas and creative, out-of-the-box thinking.

This full-time position will report to the Art Director and is based on-site at the Simons Foundation offices in New York City.

For more information, visit www.simonsfoundation.org/careers.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collaborate with the editorial, art, production and audience staff to research, design and create science infographics, charts, maps and data visualizations to illustrate Quanta’s articles.
• Work with freelance interactive designers to create motion graphics, interactive graphics and data visualizations.
• Lead larger, standalone visual projects, some of which may involve assigning and overseeing the work of freelance artists, animators, and interactive designers.
• Procure permissions and adapt graphics from science journals.
• Prepare graphics for web publication, including formatting and optimization, for desktop and mobile versions.
• Maintain and monitor Quanta’s infographic style, aesthetic and scientific standards.
• Collaborate with the Art Director to create and maintain a graphics style guide.
• Work closely with writers, editors and experts to refine and revise graphics.
• Show passion and enthusiasm for visual storytelling and Quanta’s mission to tell stories about fundamental, curiosity-driven science and mathematics.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• At least 5 years’ experience as a graphics editor, data visualizer or interactive designer, preferably at an established newspaper, magazine or news site, with a proven track record of conceiving, researching and creating impactful visual science explainers.
• Advanced knowledge of Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
• Must be detail-oriented and highly organized, with strong project management skills.
• Must demonstrate command of the highest standards of written English and visual communication.
• Must be an excellent communicator and team player with the ability to coordinate graphics production with editors, reporters and the art staff.
• Consistent accuracy, careful attention to detail and the ability to proactively anticipate needs and to organize several assignments and activities simultaneously.

Desired Experience

• Animation skills and D3.js programming
• Familiarity with low-code or no-code design environments
• Some knowledge of or experience with HTML5/CSS3/JavaScript
• Advanced illustration skills and a fine sense of graphic style
• Previous work in a newsroom or scientific setting is preferred, as is experience with Quanta’s coverage areas

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $115,000 - $135,000, depending on experience.
• In addition to competitive salaries, the Simons Foundation provides employees with an outstanding benefits package.

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS

• Résumé and cover letter
• Graphics/data visualization portfolio with at least 20 separate works

ABOUT QUANTA

Quanta Magazine is an award-winning, editorially independent online publication launched by the Simons Foundation to enhance public understanding of science. Our reporters and editors focus on developments in mathematics, theoretical physics, theoretical computer science and the basic life sciences, with an emphasis on delivering timely, accurate, in-depth and well-crafted articles for our broad, discerning audience. In addition to winning awards and accolades for its science writing, Quanta is a 2020 finalist for a National Magazine Award for general excellence. Quanta has syndication partnerships with Wired, The Atlantic, Scientific American, The Washington Post and other publications, has published two books (Alice and Bob Meet the Wall of Fire and The Prime Number Conspiracy) and our articles have been translated into several languages.

The Simons Foundation’s Diversity Commitment

Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds and experiences, and we are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment. The Simons Foundation provides equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status or any other protected category under federal, state and local law.