Freelance Social News Editor (Contract)

Overview
SmartNews is looking for a U.S. West Coast-based freelancer to provide remote editorial services as a freelancer to SmartNews, which shall include curating content through push notifications, social media and developing new experiences within the SmartNews app and all other services reasonably requested by Company. You will work independently, so must have strong news judgment, real-time digital news production experience and a distinct creative voice to establish our social presence. 

You should excel as events are unfolding, display high editorial standards and balance both accuracy and speed. You’ll also need a strong understanding of the media landscape; SmartNews partners with hundreds of publishers including the AP, Reuters, ProPublica, Bloomberg, NPR and many more. Founded in 2012, SmartNews is the go-to source of news for millions of users around the world and a leading news and information mobile app. 

As a freelancer, you will be paid an agreed-upon hourly rate of $35-$40, depending on experience. You will not be eligible for any other form of compensation or benefits afforded by SmartNews to its employees. You will be responsible for all taxes and withholdings associated with compensation for services provided. The estimated number of service hours is approximately 30 per week.

Services, Timing and Deliverables
The services are primarily focused on designing and executing a social growth strategy and supporting SmartNews’s evening and weekend news cycles in the U.S. The contractor will determine how and when to perform the services to meet agreed response-time expectations and deliverables, which will be established in advance by SmartNews and the contractor.

Requirements

Fit for Engagement
This engagement is best suited for individuals who are consistently available to support evening and weekend news cycles in the U.S.

We are looking for freelance contractors with the following experience and background:

1. 3+ years’ experience in breaking news and journalism.
2. Mastery of TikTok, Instagram, Threads and X with a strong POV on internet culture and platforms.  
3. Expert knowledge of AP Style.
4. Knowledge of remote-work software including Slack, Google Drive and Google Meets.
5. Ability to use professional judgment and discretion to identify news stories and trends without direct supervision.