Associate Editor

Associate Editor, Sky & Telescope 

The American Astronomical Society (AAS), a prestigious scientific association whose mission is to enhance and share humanity’s scientific understanding of the universe as a diverse and inclusive astronomical community, has an immediate opening in their Cambridge, MA office for an Associate Editor of the popular astronomy magazine Sky & Telescope (S&T). This is a great opportunity to work with a progressive company.

This is NOT a remote position. This position will be in our Cambridge, MA office.

The Associate Editor will be responsible for commissioning, editing, and shepherding through production a range of articles related to the hobby of astronomy. The associate editor will work closely with the entire S&T team as well as contributors from around the world. The position reports directly to the editor in chief. 

Responsibilities:

• Edit feature articles on topics including but not limited to observing, history, the astronomical community, and cultural lore (one feature per magazine issue on average)
• Edit a selection of observing-related columns/departments in the magazine on a monthly/bimonthly basis
• Edit online content as needed, in collaboration with the news editor
• Copy edits other editors’ articles for style and accuracy
• Write, edit, and/or help create diagrams for press releases on topical celestial events
• Commission content from authors and astrophotographers: issue contracts and track submissions, acquire images and permissions, keep article larder stocked for assigned departments
• If time and interest allow, research and write own pieces for magazine and/or website
• Work with the Art Department to brainstorm ideas for artwork to support content
• Represent S&T at the annual NEAF trade show, star parties, club meetings, and other events

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 years of sustained experience in amateur astronomy 
• Demonstrated ability to convey astronomical concepts with clarity, accuracy, and approachability. Formal experience with astronomy communication and/or science journalism preferred
• Excellent writing, editing, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent reporting, researching, and fact-checking skills
• Familiarity with a variety of astronomy-specific software preferred 
• Knowledge of telescope optics and astronomical equipment desirable 
• Must be 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
• Experience with Adobe Creative Suite and Wordpress preferred; willingness to learn additional software tools as needed
• Astrophotography skills a plus.

The American Astronomical Society offers a competitive salary plus an exceptional benefits package, including ten percent of salary added to a company pension after one year of service, generous sick and vacation time, 12 paid holidays, comprehensive medical with a choice of three plans, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability and long-term disability, parking and commuter benefits, tuition reimbursement, and professional development opportunities.

Please forward resumes to personnel@aas.org.

The AAS actively seeks diverse candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We provide 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.

The AAS recognizes that candidates with non-traditional career paths, or individuals who are at earlier stages of their careers may have demonstrated experience in different ways. The AAS encourages applications from such individuals.  We welcome you to apply today!