Project Manager, News Operations

Application Instructions

Please list all professional experience and explain any gaps in employment history. All of your application materials, which may include PDF files of work samples and/or links to audio, video, photography or graphics, must be uploaded to the field labeled Resume/Cover Letter/Work Samples to be considered for the position.

Job Description

The Washington Post seeks an organized and detail-oriented project manager to join its News Operations team, which is responsible for creating and maintaining processes and systems that foster an efficient, cohesive and collegial workplace. 

This individual will bolster the News Operations team’s work on hiring, recruiting, training, career development, budgeting, prizes submissions and general operations. The project manager will also collaborate with departments across the company, including Finance, Legal, HR and Security. 

The successful candidate will be able to balance a keen attention to detail with an ability to work quickly to complete routine tasks and solve novel problems as they arise. 

The project manager will report to the Managing Editor for Operations.

Responsibilities:   

• Create and manage newsroom databases and operational manuals to help newsroom staff with their logistical needs.

• Create and/or coordinate special initiatives aimed at nurturing newsroom talent and boosting staff camaraderie and cohesion. 

• Build and/or lead projects that address the need of the moment and/or the long-term strength of the newsroom.

• Work with the Newsroom security and risk management analyst to organize, streamline and ensure strict adherence to security protocols.

• Oversee planning for key newsroom events, such as prize awarding ceremonies, the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner and the Gridiron Club dinner.

• Liaise with Finance to ensure the timely processing of key vendor invoices and payments.

• Assist the newsroom security and risk management analyst with streamlining and organizing security protocols.

• Help editors with vetting freelancers and managing their assignments using the Talent Network.

• When needed, address logistical and administrative needs in our global News Hubs in Seoul and London.

• When needed, coordinate the hiring of newsroom talent including, but not limited to, communicating with finalists, organizing application materials, scheduling interviews and completing onboarding tasks.

Preferred qualifications:   

• At least seven years of office management, administrative or executive support, or related experience, preferably in a newsroom. 

• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and a proactive attitude. 

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.  

• Comfort working in Excel spreadsheets and Outlook calendars. Prior experience with Workday is a plus.  

• Experience effectively managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously, with the ability to switch between contexts seamlessly. 

• Strong written and verbal communications skills. 

• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion. 

• Adaptability and a desire to work in a fast-paced environment. 

This position is based in our Washington, D.C., newsroom.

There is a preferred candidate for this role, but we welcome applications from others interested in working with our News Operations team. Candidates should upload a resume to our jobs portal and may include a cover letter to tell us about other skills and experience that you think would be valuable. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, but those received by Apr. 23 will be prioritized. Any cover letters should be addressed to Managing Editor Liz Seymour.

The starting salary range for this position is: $105,000 — $176,000 USD. The actual starting salary within this range will depend on individual skills, experience and qualifications as they relate to specific job requirements.

The Washington Post’s policy for employees is five days per week in the office, with exceptions for newsgathering and general business travel.

Compensation and Benefits

Wherever you are in your life or career, The Washington Post offers comprehensive and inclusive benefits for every step of your journey:

• Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage<