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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for News Editor Intern

💰 $ - $

JournalismMediaEditorialContent CreationCommunications

🎯 Role Definition

The News Editor Intern supports the editorial team in creating, reviewing, and publishing accurate, engaging, and timely news content. This role involves editing articles, conducting research, fact-checking, assisting with digital content management, and contributing to multimedia news production while gaining professional experience in journalism and media operations.


📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Journalism or Communications Student
  • Editorial Assistant Intern
  • Media or Content Production Trainee

Advancement To:

  • Junior News Editor
  • Digital Content Editor
  • Multimedia Journalist

Lateral Moves:

  • Social Media Content Coordinator
  • Copy Editor or Proofreader

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Edit and proofread news articles, press releases, and feature stories for accuracy, grammar, and style.
  • Assist senior editors in reviewing content for clarity, tone, and relevance to the target audience.
  • Conduct research and fact-checking to ensure accuracy of published information.
  • Support the production of digital and print content, including multimedia elements.
  • Assist in writing headlines, summaries, and captions for online and print publications.
  • Coordinate with reporters, photographers, and graphic designers to gather content for publication.
  • Monitor breaking news and assist in timely updates across platforms.
  • Ensure all content adheres to editorial guidelines, company standards, and ethical journalism practices.
  • Maintain content calendars and assist with scheduling news stories for publication.
  • Prepare drafts and assist with revisions based on editorial feedback.
  • Track story performance metrics and assist in reporting insights to the editorial team.
  • Assist in maintaining archives of published articles and digital content.
  • Participate in editorial meetings and brainstorming sessions for story ideas.
  • Support social media content posting and monitoring under supervision.
  • Assist in preparing special reports, newsletters, and press kits.
  • Help manage incoming story pitches and correspondence with contributors.
  • Ensure proper attribution and sourcing for all content used.
  • Support multimedia content integration, including video, audio, and graphics.
  • Participate in newsroom workflow and assist with production deadlines.
  • Maintain confidentiality regarding unpublished stories and editorial strategies.

Secondary Functions

  • Support ad-hoc content requests and special projects.
  • Assist in developing templates and style guides for consistent editorial output.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing and communications, on content initiatives.
  • Participate in training and mentorship programs to develop editorial skills.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Strong copyediting and proofreading abilities
  • Knowledge of AP style or relevant editorial guidelines
  • Experience with content management systems (CMS) like WordPress or Drupal
  • Basic understanding of SEO and digital content optimization
  • Research and fact-checking skills
  • Familiarity with social media platforms and digital publishing tools
  • Multimedia content editing (basic video/audio/photo editing)
  • Ability to write headlines, summaries, and captions effectively
  • Knowledge of newsroom workflow and publication processes
  • Data entry and reporting skills for editorial analytics

Soft Skills

  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Time management and ability to meet tight deadlines
  • Critical thinking and editorial judgment
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced newsroom
  • Adaptability to rapidly changing news priorities
  • Creativity and curiosity for news and storytelling
  • Professionalism and ethical integrity in journalism
  • Problem-solving and initiative-taking skills
  • Strong organizational and multitasking abilities

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s program in Journalism, Communications, or related field

Preferred Education:

  • Coursework or certifications in digital media, editing, or content production

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Journalism
  • Communications or Media Studies

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 0–1 year of editorial, media, or journalism internship experience

Preferred:

  • Prior experience in student publications, freelance writing, or digital content creation