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The Chimes—Opinions Editor Job Description
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THE CHIMES // Opinions Editor

Basic function and responsibility:

The opinions editor is responsible for the solicitation and approval of opinions articles submitted by guest writers. This person ensures that enough articles and writers are available to keep the website updated and fill space in print. In addition, the opinions editor supervises regular writers. The opinions editor edits opinions articles for content, grammar, spelling, etc. The opinions editor is aware of any articles or incidents that might incite or aggravate conflict, and deals with the possibility appropriately. The ideal candidate is in tune with the diversity of the campus as well as campus chatter and rumor-mill. The ideal candidate is able to be firm with headstrong writers. Must be able to recruit, coach and encourage strong writers.

Duties:

  1. Secure articles and guest writers for daily web articles on the web and for the opinions section. Ensure that enough articles are available to keep web fresh and print space full.

  1. Be the faculty/staff liaison for Corey’s Corner monthly feature from President Corey and other faculty contributors. Find faculty contributors, and play to their strengths and areas of expertise.  

  1. Set a broad and bold vision for opinions that makes readers think deeply about world and campus events. Facilitate conversation and dialog where appropriate.

  1. Upload some stories to the web, formatting appropriately.

  1. Ensure that writers conform to convergent requirements. Ensure that all writers attend any mandatory training and are familiar with Google Docs.
  2. Ensure that current Biola-related stories are covered consistently.

  1. Communicate with design editors to make sure compelling visual elements supplement stories. Coordinate with design editor for sidebars and charts to supplement stories.

  1. Field inquiries about Chimes opinions stories and solicit/process letters to the editor.

  1. Write opinions-related stories in a professional manner and ensure relevant Chimes editorials are written weekly from the paper’s point of view.

  1. Edit all opinions-related stories for content, grammar, spelling, facts, etc. before sharing them with the copy editing and web staff.

  1. Meet all writing deadlines and ensure that the opinions writing staff does the same.
  2. Work with web staff to develop web-exclusive content, including (but not limited to) polls, videos, Campus Talk and blogs.

14. Attend weekly budget meetings.

15. Train an apprentice in spring for 10+ hours a week.

Supervision received: Editor-in-Chief, Managing Editor

Supervision of others: Opinions Staff Writer, freelancers

Qualifications:

General: Must have excellent interpersonal skills and ability to lead a writing staff. Able to delegate assignments. Demonstrate a working knowledge and familiarity with AP style. Strong editing, grammar and writing skills. Ability to supervise and provide constructive criticism in a helpful and appropriate manner. Flexible attitude. Demonstrate working knowledge of computer programs such as Google Docs and Excel. Display an awareness of world and campus news climate.

Education and experiences: At the time of election or appointment, must attend or accepted to Biola as a full-time student. Prior experience working with newspapers, yearbook, magazines or prior work, class experience, or journalism is preferable.