Editor (Volunteer)

Note: This is a remote, part-time volunteer position. Please do not apply if you are only seeking paid employment.

Today, pretty much anyone can call themselves an editor. But real editing — the kind that strengthens ideas, sharpens structure, challenges weak spots, and helps writers do their best work — is something else entirely.

If you’re an experienced editor who enjoys working closely with writers, shaping strong pieces, and being part of a smart, collaborative team, we’d love to hear from you. We’re an independent, nonprofit news organization with a limited budget, so we especially welcome those who are not looking to us principally as an income source.

Our editorial culture is convivial, supportive, and stimulating. We share ideas, strengthen one another’s work, and value the kind of thoughtful collaboration that has become rare in many newsrooms. For some, this is a chance to build meaningful editorial experience, sharpen judgment, and strengthen a resume. For others, it’s an opportunity to stay engaged with serious journalism, mentor writers, and contribute to work that matters. For the right person, this can be a rewarding and energizing add-on to life.

Who We Are

WhoWhatWhy is a nonprofit investigative news organization producing deep-dive journalism on the most pressing issues of our time. We’re powered by skilled volunteers and a small core staff — from students to seasoned professionals — who believe in ethical, independent journalism free from corporate or political influence.

About the Role

As an Editor, you will:

• Review drafts to assess structure, narrative flow, and alignment with the intended angle
• Identify gaps in logic, unsupported claims, or missing context and request revisions
• Provide specific, actionable feedback on organization, sourcing, and development of ideas
• Ensure key points are supported with appropriate attribution and evidence
• Work with writers to revise drafts through multiple iterations
• Confirm that revisions address prior feedback before advancing drafts
• Contribute input on story direction and development when needed
• Move articles forward through the editorial process within agreed timelines

What We’re Looking For

• 2–5+ years of experience in editing, writing, or journalism-related roles
• Experience editing articles, essays, or long-form written content
• Experience working with writers and providing feedback on drafts
• Background in journalism, communications, or a related field preferred
• Familiarity with editorial standards (e.g., AP style or similar)
• Experience working under deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Bonus

• Experience editing investigative or long-form journalism
• Experience working with multiple contributors or freelance writers
• Familiarity with digital publishing workflows
• Experience in nonprofit or mission-driven media environments

Commitment

We ask for a commitment of 8–12 hours per week and a minimum of 6 months. Scheduling is flexible, but reliability and responsiveness are essential to keeping stories moving.

How to Apply

Please send:

• Your resume or relevant experience
• A brief cover letter explaining your interest in the role and our mission

If there is no option to upload your materials, email them to [email protected]. Please check your spam folder for responses.

Reminder

We do not review mass-submitted or AI-generated applications. We value thoughtful, original submissions that reflect genuine interest in our work.