Editor, Inquest

Job Summary

Inquest, a publication of the Institute to End Mass Incarceration, is an online journal of analysis and opinion that explores the causes and consequences of mass incarceration. Drawing from the best traditions of explanatory writing and in-depth analysis, Inquest illuminates the system of racial and social injustice that is mass incarceration — and provokes rigorous discussion aimed at identifying and exploring new paths toward dismantling it. It is a platform where the voices of those doing the hard thinking and the hard work — the people closest to the problem, including those directly impacted by mass incarceration — come together to engage with each other in a generative exchange aimed at eradicating mass incarceration, root and branch.

Inquest seeks to hire an Editor to work in collaboration with other members of the editorial team to cultivate, edit and guide pieces to publication.

Position Description

As an Editor you will:

• Work closely with the managing editor to realize Inquest’s objectives. See the editorial process through from beginning to end on assigned pieces, including engaging in direct edits, incorporating other feedback and edits, liaising with the contributor, and creating schedules for the editorial process with regard to assigned pieces.

• Protect the integrity of Inquest’s mission and content, ensuring that all content meets the highest standards including fact-checking or overseeing fact-checking of contributions.

• Periodic drafting of and updating of different components of the Inquest website, including the Bookshelf. Periodic creation and dissemination of Inquest’s newsletter.

• Stay informed and current on issues relating to criminal legal system change, including issues of political, socioeconomic and racial injustice and contribute content ideas, and engage in outreach to potential contributors as appropriate. Offer ideas for special features and events.

• Engage in team meetings and collaborative work with other Inquest staff, including organizing, conducting and assisting with training as needed for Inquest staff.

• May be asked to engage in public speaking or events related to the work of Inquest and/or the Institute.

• Other duties and projects as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

Five or more years of related professional experience

Additional Qualifications and Skills

We are looking for people who have:

• Commitment to the mission, goals and values of Inquest and the Institute to End Mass Incarceration and to nurturing and developing the staff and team members of Inquest while fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace.

• Strong oral and written communication skills. Ability to work creatively and independently as well as part of a team including taking creative direction/feedback from the Executive Editors, Managing Editor and other members of the editorial team.

• Ability to handle multiple and complex projects simultaneously under stringent timeframes and changing priorities/conditions. Ability to work quickly and efficiently under deadline pressure.

• Proficiency with Wordpress, cloud storage software, MailChimp, Google Drive and Docs, Excel, workflow management software and apps such as ClickUp, content management software, and team collaboration apps such as Slack.

• Preference for an understanding of the landscape of current efforts to address the crisis of mass incarceration, including reform efforts, the movement for abolition, various organizing, advocacy and litigation efforts, and socio-cultural efforts.

Working Conditions

May be required to work occasional evenings and weekends.

Additional Information

Individuals who are members of or identify with underrepresented and/or marginalized populations, including women, people of color, LGBTQ+, ability/disability and non-binary gender identities, among others, are encouraged to apply, as are people who have been directly impacted by the criminal legal system.

This is a one-year term appointment with potential for renewal, subject to departmental funding and need.

We regret that Harvard Law School is unable to provide visa sponsorship for staff positions.

All offers to be made by HLS Human Resources.

Be a part of excellence and leadership in legal education and scholarship at Harvard Law School. We are a community of talented people from diverse backgrounds, lived experiences, and perspectives, dedicated to advancing the cause of justice all over the world. We value our differences and our diversity as a source of strength. We are committed to developing and inspiring our students and our workforce. Whoever you are, whatever you do, however you do it, Harvard Law School is a place where you can thrive.

Job Function

Communications

Location

USA - MA - Cambridge

Job Code

405004 Comm Professional (N)

Sub-Unit

-

Department

Institute to End Mass Incarceration

Time Status

Full-time

Salary Grade

056

Union

55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Pre-Employment Screening

Identity

Schedule

35 hours a week, Monday through Friday, 7 hour workday
May be required to work occasional evenings and weekends.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.