Policy Editor & Deputy Communications Director

Company Overview

The American Action Forum (AAF) is a forward-looking, non-profit policy institute dedicated to keeping America strong, free and prosperous. It seeks to promote common-sense, innovative, and solutions-based policies that will reform government, challenge outdated assumptions, and create a smaller, smarter government that will serve its citizens better. As a unique, fast-paced “action” tank, we use the modern tools of communications to deploy ideas; engage Americans in the debate over the boundaries of government policy, personal freedoms, and market incentives; and educate and challenge the media to explore these issues and shape the next generation of political leaders.

Job Summary

The American Action Forum seeks a Policy Editor & Deputy Communications Director. This in-office position works closely with a variety of issue experts to quickly and effectively shape and edit policy products to achieve the most clear, concise, and marketable presentation. This editor will ensure research and other products have appropriate framing, consistency of argument, organization, language, and tone.   

The ideal candidate has at least two years of policy editing experience, exceptional writing/editing skills, proficiency in AP/Chicago Style, and the ability to quickly shift focus and multitask in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. A federal policy background is strongly preferred. 

Daily tasks include editing products such as research, columns, op-eds, and testimony, and writing/editing press releases and other marketing language. This position will also assist the Communications team in carrying out the overall communications strategy for the organization, determining the most effective medium for forthcoming policy work, pitching products to media for the most impactful coverage, cultivating relationships with reporters in select policy areas, leveraging AAF events to promote research and policy content, and keeping track of the news cycle so that products are released and promoted in a timely and effective way.  

Responsibilities and Duties

• This position is responsible for editing AAF’s written products and contributing to the Communications team's overall strategy, productivity and effectiveness
• Cultivating reporter relationships, working closely with others to publish work as quickly as possible

Qualifications and Skills

• Degree in journalism and/or 2+ years of related work experience is preferred
• Excellent editing, writing and verbal communication skills
• Broad working knowledge of U.S. federal policy 
• Ability to multi-task and shift priorities efficiently with little notice
• An interest in working for a think tank that emphasizes smaller government, sensible conservative policy solutions, and smart policy options that benefit the American public and avoid unnecessary federal government overreach

Benefits 

Health coverage, paid time off, retirement savings plan, cell phone reimbursement, gym membership. Salary commensurate with experience.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume, and writing sample of no more than 1000 words.

Please note that this is a full-time position based in Washington, DC. The American Action Forum is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, citizenship status, or sexual orientation. We are unable to sponsor work visas for this project, and applicants will be asked to provide proof of ability to work legally in the United States after accepting a job offer.