Job Description

Managing Editor, Philosophy & Society Program

The Aspen Institute's Philosophy & Society Program seeks a Managing Editor to lead the editorial vision, development, and production of the program's primary publications. This role sits at the center of the program's work: shaping ideas for public engagement and ensuring that all outputs meet the highest standard of intellectual rigor, clarity, and relevance. The Managing Editor will oversee the full editorial lifecycle for individual pieces and for our in-house publications—from concept development through publication and dissemination—while managing up to an editorial board and down to associates.

The successful candidate will combine editorial authority, intellectual judgment, and strong operational discipline. They will serve as a key partner to the Executive Director in defining the program's publications agenda and ensuring consistent, high-quality execution across formats.

The Managing Editor will report to the Executive Director of the Philosophy & Society Program. The salary range for this position is $93,000 - $100,000. Candidates must be based in Washington, DC, and meet the Aspen Institute's regular attendance requirements. Remote candidates will not be considered.

What You Will Do

• Publications Strategy
• Editorial Leadership
• Editorial Operations & Workflow
• Audience & Dissemination
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Strategic Contributions

What You Will Need

• Bachelor's degree and 7+ years of experience in editorial leadership, journalism, or related fields required.
• Demonstrated ability to shape complex ideas into clear, compelling written work.
• Excellent understanding of the very rapid pace of the contemporary media ecosystems and the core skills needed to make compelling public arguments in that environment.
• Strong editorial judgment and attention to detail, with demonstrated experience managing a team of writers or content creators.
• Ability to engage with creators to get a piece from ideation to first draft to published essay.
• Experience managing multiple editorial projects simultaneously.
• Ability to build and maintain efficient workflows and production systems.
• Experience with multimedia or digital publishing formats.
• Ability to move between philosophical depth and public-facing clarity.
• Strong interpersonal skills and collaborative mindset.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Understanding of how ideas reach and engage public audiences.
• Intellectual curiosity and generosity.
• Commitment to rigor, clarity, and public impact.
• Flexibility and willingness to support evolving program needs.
• Ability to work non-traditional hours to support high paced work culture and publication rhythms.
• Must be based in Washington, DC.

Applications are to be submitted on or before May 8, 2026.

The Aspen Institute offers a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, and prescription benefits, retirement benefits, and paid leave. The Aspen Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all District and federal laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or protected veteran or disabled status and will not be discriminated against. The Aspen Institute welcomes individuals with disabilities to participate in its programs, including the interview process. If you would like to request accommodations or have questions about accessibility, please email hrsupport@aspeninstitute.org or call 202-736-2127 in advance of your visit. Requests for ASL or CART services should be made at least two weeks in advance when possible. We will make every effort to fulfill requests, subject to availability.

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