Senior Editor, Crisis and Conflict

FIXED-TERM, FULL-TIME JOB VACANCY

SENIOR EDITOR

Crisis and Conflict Division

Multiple Locations Considered

Application Deadline: October 27, 2022

The Crisis and Conflict Division of Human Rights Watch (“HRW”) is seeking a Senior Editor to provide writing and editing support to the team. The Crisis and Conflict Division documents, exposes, and advocates to end violations of human rights and the laws of war during armed conflicts and severe social or political unrest. We bring attention to under-reported crises, highlight the plight of marginalized people, advance rights-respecting legal norms, and press for justice to protect and promote human rights.

The Senior Editor will report to the Director of the Crisis and Conflict Division based in Washington D.C., and will work closely with the Director of Communications, based in New York. This is a two-year, fixed-term position and should preferably be based in a location where HRW has an office.

Due to Covid-19, many of our global offices are operating in reduced capacities. The successful candidate may be required to work remotely as local mandates necessitate. We recognize that this moment, during the pandemic, is a uniquely difficult time for most people, particularly those with caregiving responsibilities, and we aim to be as flexible and supportive as possible in both the recruitment for and onboarding of this position.

Responsibilities:

1. Edit, revise, recast, and fact check news releases, reports, and other written materials drafted by Crisis and Conflict Division staff;

2. In coordination with the Communications Division, draft shorter documents such as op-eds, news releases, media advisories, and quotes for journalists based on research conducted by Crisis and Conflict Division staff;

3. Provide constructive feedback to Crisis and Conflict Division staff to improve their proficiency in the HRW writing style;

4. Liaise with the Communications Division regarding upcoming publications from the Crisis and Conflict Division and media requests for the division, including by meeting regularly with the Director of Communications and attending the Communication Division’s weekly meetings;

5. Communicate and develop writing and editing standards and trainings within the division in conjunction with broader Program Office and Communications Division initiatives; and

6. Carry out any other tasks as required.

Qualifications:

Education: An advanced degree or an equivalent level of experience in international relations, journalism, law, social sciences, or related studies is preferred.

Experience: A minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience is required.

Related Skills and Knowledge:

1. Excellent writing and editing skills, including ability to uphold standards in line with HRW fact-checking guidelines, as well as the ability to think creatively and strategically are required.

2. Demonstrated knowledge and ability to apply international humanitarian and human rights laws are required.

3. Demonstrated ability to communicate complex, difficult, and/or disturbing subject matter in a pithy, effective, relatable, and respectful manner is required.

4. Demonstrated ability to maintain solid and effective working relationships at a long distance, through modern technology is required.

5. Strong interpersonal skills in diverse cultural settings in order to work collaboratively within HRW, as well as with external partners, are required.

6. Ability to multi-task effectively, including good planning and organizing skills, and ability to work quickly under pressure are required.

7. Ability to make sound decisions consistent with functions is required.

Salary and Benefits: HRW seeks exceptional applicants and offers comprehensive compensation and benefits. HRW also offers a relocation assistance package and will assist employees in obtaining necessary work authorization, if required; citizens of all nationalities are encouraged to apply.

***How to Apply:***Please apply immediately or by October 27, 2022 by submitting a resume/CV and letter of interest via our online job portal at https://careers.hrw.org/. No calls or email inquiries, please. Only complete applications will be reviewed, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

If you are experiencing technical difficulties with your application submission, or if you require a disability-related accommodation please email [email protected]. Due to the large response, application submissions via email will not be accepted and inquiries regarding the status of applications will go unanswered.

Human Rights Watch is strong because it is diverse. We actively seek a diverse applicant pool and encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply. Human Rights Watch does not discriminate on the basis of disability, age, gender identity and expression, national origin, race and ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or criminal record. We welcome all kinds of diversity. Our employees include people who are parents and nonparents, the self-taught and university educated, and from a wide span of socio-economic backgrounds and perspectives on the world. Human Rights Watch is an equal opportunity employer.

Human Rights Watch is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization known for its in-depth investigations, its incisive and timely reporting, its innovative and high-profile advocacy campaigns, and its success in changing the human rights-related policies and practices of influential governments and international institutions.