Assistant Editor, Publications

Job Summary

The assistant editor supports the editorial and production processes of AOPA’s award-winning magazines and media. This position plays a key role in the publication process by editing copy, checking for accuracy, preparing files for print and digital publication, working in content management systems, and reporting and writing as needed.

• Edit content for tone, content, grammar, and style appropriate to the communication channel(s) in which it will appear, adhering to the AOPA style guide.
• Research facts to maintain accuracy.
• Assist the managing editor in maintaining and updating the Publications stylebook.
• Coordinate with contributors and editorial staff to communicate deadlines, request editorial payments, and make revisions as necessary.
• Participate in collaborative brainstorming, including expressing thoughts clearly, using active listening, and checking for understanding. Acknowledge and show respect for others’ points of view; respect honest disagreement; provide and receive honest feedback with a positive attitude.

• Facilitate the review of layouts in review/approval software.
• Review and process files to ensure their suitability for the printer.
• Facilitate the production of digital editions of AOPA’s print/digital magazines, including coordination with AOPA’s digital edition vendor.
• Perform quality control checks on links and ads in the digital editions of AOPA Pilot, Turbine edition, and Flight Training.
• Coordinate with colleagues to schedule, prepare, and send digital edition emails.
• Post magazine stories online in AOPA’s content management system.

• Assist other members of the Publications team and AOPA staff as needed, to include research projects and editing of marketing materials.
• Pitch, research, and write articles for AOPA Pilot, Flight Training, and AOPA.org as directed.
• Contribute to multi-channel media efforts, including podcast editing or coordination with video and social media teams.

• Bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, or a related field.
• 1-3 years of proven experience writing and editing for a variety of media and formats.
• Exceptional command of the English language.
• A team player with exceptional communication skills.
• Ability to multitask and work under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Ability to learn and work in content management systems.

• Private pilot certificate or interest in general aviation.
• Proficiency in Adobe InDesign.
• In-depth knowledge of the publication process and best practices.
• Proficiency in AP Style.

This position works in an office setting. Typical working hours are 8:30 am - 5 pm, Monday through Friday, with a one-hour lunch break. Generally, a climate‑controlled environment with occasional exposure to outdoor weather conditions when attending aviation related events, including exposure to higher altitudes and confined spaces if in a general aviation aircraft.

This position may require some travel to various general aviation or industry-related events. Travel is by aircraft (general aviation and commercial) and by road or public transit.

The physical demands of this position are typical of a standard office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will regularly be required to:

• Sit for extended periods while working at a computer or attending meetings.
• Use hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment.
• Communicate effectively via email, phone, and in-person, which requires clear speech, hearing, and vision.
• Occasionally lift or move items weighing up to 25 pounds, such as boxes of materials or equipment.
• Occasionally stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms during the course of normal office activities.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position is located at AOPA’s Frederick, MD, office. The…