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CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The News Lab at Penn State’s Bellisario College of Communications is seeking a passionate and experienced Editor and Training Coordinator to join our growing team!
In this pivotal role, you’ll work closely with our Local Reporting Cohort, guiding student journalists from pitch to publication and overseeing our innovative training and badging program. You’ll play a key role in shaping the next generation of Pennsylvania journalists by mentoring students, building industry partnerships, and helping bridge classroom learning with real-world reporting.
About the News Lab
Launched in Fall 2022, the News Lab connects student journalists with professional newsrooms across Pennsylvania. Our students have published or broadcast work in over 70 outlets, including The Philadelphia Inquirer, PennLive, SpotlightPA, WPSU, and WVPB. Their work has earned prestigious recognition, including:
- Pennsylvania Broadcast Association Excellence Award
- Press Club of Western PA Golden Quills
- SPJ Mark of Excellence Awards
- Multiple Hearst Award placements
We provide paid, year-round journalism opportunities that serve as both income sources and professional training grounds—welcoming students from all majors, with a focus on underclassmen.
Key Responsibilities
- Mentor student journalists through the full editorial process—from story ideation to final publication or broadcast.
- Coordinate and enhance the News Lab’s training and badging program.
- Collaborate with the News Lab Director to execute strategic goals.
- Build and maintain relationships with professional news outlets across Pennsylvania.
- Support students during evening and weekend training sessions as needed.
Required Qualifications
- Proven experience in editing or editorial mentorship.
- Strong organizational and project management skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience across multiple media formats (e.g., print/digital, TV, radio, podcasting, documentary).
- Advanced degree in journalism, communications, or a related field.
- Experience working with student journalists or in academic settings.
- Familiarity with the Pennsylvania media landscape and local reporting challenges.
- Awareness of emerging journalism technologies and industry trends.
- Background in managing training programs or professional development initiatives.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree
6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $61,800.00 - $89,600.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.
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