What Does an Assignment Editor Do?

Learn About the Salary, Required Skills, & More

The Balance / Ellen Lindner

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  • Assignment Editor Duties & Responsibilities

Assignment Editor Salary

  • Education, Training, & Certification
  • Assignment Editor Skills & Competencies

Job Outlook

Work environment, work schedule, comparing similar jobs.

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An assignment editor works at the assignment desk, which is the nerve center of any newsroom. This is where newsroom staff members monitor multiple sources for breaking news, including police and fire scanners. When possible news arises, the assignment editor works with reporters, photographers, producers, and other staff members to assign and develop story ideas.

Small companies sometimes have one assignment editor who is responsible for organizing the assignment desk to operate around the clock. In larger newsrooms, there may be a team of assignment editors that take turns staffing the desk.

Assignment Editor Duties & Responsibilities

The job generally requires the ability to perform the following duties:

  • Monitor multiple sources for possible news stories
  • Develop and propose a daily news coverage plan
  • Lead newsroom staff meetings to review possible stories and assignments
  • Help choose which journalists, photographers, and other staff members are assigned to cover stories
  • Stay on top of all stories to ensure they're developing as planned and determine which ones are not coming together
  • Be the main point of communication between reporters, production teams, and executive staff on developing stories

It's up to the assignment editor to assign people to investigate and report on news stories. The assignment editor's day is sometimes spent shifting people and equipment around so that as many stories get covered as possible, with an eye out on how to handle breaking news coverage at any moment.

When working in television, an assignment editor may also work with the tv producer to decide which crews will take live trucks or a helicopter to broadcast live during a newscast. Also, a TV news anchor who is reviewing scripts just before airtime will often turn to the assignment editor to confirm facts.

An assignment editor's salary can vary depending on location, experience, and employer. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics offers salary data for the broader editor category, but it doesn't offer separate data on the assignment editor subcategory:

  • Median Annual Salary: $59,480 
  • Top 10% Annual Salary: $114,460 
  • Bottom 10% Annual Salary: $30,830  

Education, Training, & Certification

Most assignment editors have the same types of degrees as other editors and journalists in a newsroom.

  • Education: Most employers prefer candidates that have at least a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or English. 
  • Experience: This is often key to getting this type of job, because experience is key to building a list of contacts and learning how to operate smoothly. Employers usually prefer candidates with a background in the type of media in which they specialize, whether it's television, digital, or print news.
  • Training: Most training happens on the job. Aspiring assignment editors may want to find an internship position at a newsroom assignment desk.

Assignment Editor Skills & Competencies

To be successful in this role, you’ll generally need the following skills and qualities: 

  • Editorial judgment: Assignment editors need to be able to quickly decide whether a story is newsworthy. And although they aren't usually writing the stories themselves, they need to know all of the components of a good news story to guide reporters on coverage.
  • Interpersonal skills: Successful assignment editors form relationships with many contacts that can help bring a story together. For example, someone in this role at a local TV news station may have all the county sheriffs' home telephone numbers on speed-dial and be on a first-name basis with the current and previous mayors.
  • Organizational skills: An assignment editor must be able to organize the logistics and track the details of several stories at a time and keep everything on schedule.
  • Communication skills: An assignment editor must skillfully communicate with all of the staff involved in making news stories come together, including reporters, photographers, production teams, and executive staff.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in this field will grow 6 percent through 2026, which is slightly slower than the overall employment growth of 7 percent for all occupations in the country. The BLS it doesn't offer separate data on the assignment editor subcategory.

Most of this job is done in an office working under several tight deadlines at once. Those who thrive on pressure and get an adrenaline rush when something unexpected happens may be best suited for this occupation.

An assignment editor usually arrives in the newsroom earlier than the other managers to get a handle on what's happening that day to brief the newsroom. Most assignment editors work full time, and many work long hours, which include evenings and weekends.

People who are interested in becoming assignment editors may also consider other careers with these median salaries: 

  • Writers and authors: $61,820
  • Reporters, correspondents, and broadcast news analysts: $40,910
  • Desktop publishers: $42,350

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , 2017

How to Get the Job

Build a Contact List

Making a list of contacts is the best place to start for a budding assignment editor. That involves making personal connections with people so that you can turn to them when you need information.

Join a Professional Association

The American Media Institute offers  a list of professional associations you can join. Which one you choose may depend on your specialty or medium (websites or television, for instance). This will help you build your contact list and stay up to date on the latest tools and techniques in the industry.

Search job sites that specialize in media careers, such as MediaBistro and iHire Broadcasting .

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Career Spotlight: Assignment Editor

By NBCU Academy

What does an assignment editor do? A longtime assignment manager for NBC4 Washington shares how his team covers breaking news.

At the heart of every newsroom is an assignment desk, where assignment editors figure out what news stories to cover around the clock. They make constant phone calls, listen to police radios and sift through emails to get news tips and background information from officials and the public. They contribute to editorial meetings with reporters, editors and producers. But breaking news can rewrite coverage plans at any point of the day.  

assignment editor definition

Charlie Bragale, an assignment manager who has worked at WRC-TV in Washington since 1988, has seen many changes in technology , but his assignment desk has always been crucial to newsgathering. He calls his assignment editors “off-air reporters,” talking to sources and conveying updates to news crews and production staff.  

Right Arrow

“I compare the assignment editor to a flight controller. I’m trying to land five 747s, a couple of A380s and a couple 737s in a blinding rainstorm,” Bragale said. “100% of my day is talking on the phone, networking with people, trying to get people to talk to me and check in.” 

Bragale talks about the work of an assignment editor in the video above and shares more remarks below.  

What are some tips to being a good assignment editor?

Be curious, be a risk taker and instinctively know what you’re doing right. You see something, go chase after it. We don’t run away from bad news or good news — we run towards everything. 

Success is collaborating with everybody.  We’re just a cog in the wheels of what we do every day. Collaboration is key.  

Your workspace is surrounded by walkie-talkies tuned in to a bunch of police and emergency medical scanners. Isn’t it confusing to listen to all that at once?

Don’t be intimidated by this. This is just white noise. Just listen for keywords, the intensity in the voice, the impact of the event. 

What are some memorable stories you worked on?

assignment editor definition

I covered a guy who pulled out an AR-15 and shot up the front of the White House [in October 1994] — that was a [Saturday] afternoon, we were running AFC football.  

The phone rings, a guy with a heavy accent says, “Do you speak Portuguese?” And I was like, “Yes, I’m from Brazil.” A Brazilian tourist, videotaping the White House with his family, captured the moment that guy shot at the White House. Back then, we had no cellphones, so I sent a courier to pick him up and look at the video. One of my colleagues ran over, grabbed the video and took it downstairs. They broke into AFC football to show the guy shooting the White House — that’s how important it was.  

[On 9/11,] we knew about the planes that struck the World Trade Center. But then I heard a plane hit the Pentagon. I heard that officer, the chill in his voice — we knew it was [a related attack]. We were ready, directing people everywhere, because we knew Washington.

You’ve worked at the same assignment desk for 36 years. What keeps you going?

This is gonna sound mushy, but I grew up here in Washington, two blocks from the TV station. As a child riding my bike through this park, past Channel 4 to the Catholic school on Massachusetts Avenue, I would always tell my brothers, “One day, I’m going to work at that place.” To represent the community and work at this incredible organization, in my job which I love, is an honor. 

Gallery: Scenes from Charlie Bragale’s Career

assignment editor definition

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Assignment Editor Job Description

Assignment editor duties & responsibilities.

To write an effective assignment editor job description, begin by listing detailed duties, responsibilities and expectations. We have included assignment editor job description templates that you can modify and use.

Sample responsibilities for this position include:

Assignment Editor Qualifications

Qualifications for a job description may include education, certification, and experience.

Education for Assignment Editor

Typically a job would require a certain level of education.

Employers hiring for the assignment editor job most commonly would prefer for their future employee to have a relevant degree such as Bachelor's and Collage Degree in Journalism, Communications, Broadcast Journalism, Education, Associates, Social Media, Television, Broadcasting, Communication, Computer

Skills for Assignment Editor

Desired skills for assignment editor include:

Desired experience for assignment editor includes:

Assignment Editor Examples

  • Microsoft Word (.docx) .DOCX
  • PDF Document (.pdf) .PDF
  • Image File (.png) .PNG
  • The editor will be responsible for assigning and editing stories and running the news team for the first few hours on the 6 am shift
  • The editor will work close with colleagues on the video team to develop cross-platform packages
  • The editor will also report and write stories, either breaking news or features, usually in the second half of the day but sometimes during an early-morning news crunch
  • Open the NY breaking news desk at 6 am daily, assigning, editing and as needed writing stories to keep the site competitive and distinctive in its news coverage
  • Guide the development of stories from start to finish
  • Edit stories sharply and cleanly, ensuring they meet the overall editorial direction set for the site
  • Help reporters frame stories and focus reporting as needed
  • Write breaking news and feature stories
  • Conceptualize, create, develop, manage and edit content focused on a user-driven strategy that understands the nuances of packaging content for the web, mobile web, social and apps
  • Achieve established editorial goals and deadlines and ensure others do the same
  • Previous experience utilizing ENPS/OPUS news production software or similar software
  • Digital content skills in website and social platforms
  • Minimum of 2 years experience working as an assignment editor
  • Must be willing and able to work flexible hours , under tight deadline pressure, occasionally with little or no warning
  • Must be willing to work at WNJU headquarters in Ft
  • Have at least three years experience in digital journalism
  • Develop and maintain relationships with editorial and creative talent own sources
  • Receive and investigate news tips
  • Support newscast Producers
  • Responsible for listening to scanners
  • Responsible for coordinating multiple field crews
  • Bachelor’s Degree in journalism or communications background preferred
  • 2 years experience in a top 50 market newsroom
  • Knowledge of the San Diego area a plus
  • Responsibilities include managing all aspects of daily news coverage, assigning and tracking news crews, monitoring breaking news and online resources, developing sources in law enforcement and local government generating story ideas
  • Additional responsibilities include gathering news content for producers, editors, photographers, and managing editors, while working closely with other newsroom management
  • Deep knowledge of the NY/NJ/CT market is a must
  • Must be proficient on technology, PC/Mac softwares
  • Flexible to work all hours including evenings and weekends
  • Excellent communication skills and time management
  • Strong working knowledge of the CNN Newsgathering system, including satellites, package production, and affiliate relationships
  • Must be willing to work in the Houston area
  • The ideal candidate must be able to learn new technology independently and quickly, and be proficient with the following digital (or similar) tools, including MS Office, WordPress, mobile push notifications, SMS texting, video publishing, AP style, Photoshop and basic HTML knowledge is a plus
  • Utilize AP style, best web-production practices and story packaging
  • Works with Bureau management to ensure that the Bureau is covering the day's news stories and manages resources to make it happen effectively
  • Monitor a variety of sources, including wires and local news, and evaluate newsworthiness
  • Assign producer, reporters and crews to cover news stories
  • Ensure that stories make deadline/airtime making certain that reporters/producers are aware of and have all available elements
  • Monitor Bureau costs and keep NewsDesk information updated with regards to using crews and editors most appropriately
  • Work with show staffs and reporters on live shots and coverage of live events
  • Pitch stories for various CNN networks and platforms
  • Enterprise unique and compelling story ideas on a daily basis
  • Must have experience listening to police scanners
  • Minimum of two years of journalism experience
  • Must have a commitment to journalistic standards of ethics and accuracy
  • Minimum of one year of prior work experience on an assignment desk or in a newsroom
  • Strong editorial judgement a must
  • Familiar with Google applications
  • Manage multiple field crews and live assets
  • Interact with viewers, public information officers and media relations professionals
  • Gather information about news as it develops and communicate it effectively and accurately to the news and production team
  • Assign and coordinate the distribution of newsgathering equipment
  • Assist with publishing content on FOX43.com and social media
  • Represent FOX43 in a courteous manner and professional manner
  • Assigning staff and resources for the production of news stories for CTV NEWS programs, CTV News Channel, DNS
  • Suggests stories for daily coverage plans for future content working with the international bureaus, freelancers, stringers and collaborators
  • Works under the direct supervision of the Executive Producer and the Sr
  • Research and write stories for the CNN.com
  • Web publishing and social media experience a plus
  • Extensive knowledge of editorial standards, ethics, and media law Must have superior organizational skills
  • Must be able to make decisions and take a leadership role
  • Must have basic writing skills and be able to communicate written and verbally
  • Must be able to apply the FOX 5 Filter to any and all stories
  • Must be able to maintain a professional demeanor when dealing with people at the station and away from the station Must be able to represent the station in the community and at station events
  • Coordinate coverage with managers, field crews, producers and on all digital platforms
  • Reviews all news releases, monitors police and fire scanners, and monitors online news sources for story ideas
  • Writes breaking news alerts and posts
  • Produces original content (text and visual) for digital, mobile and social platforms including Q13FOX.com, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
  • Reviews all news releases, monitors police and fire scanners, and monitors online news sources for for story ideas
  • Use data to know the market and what types of stories resonates with WFMY News 2’s audiences
  • Spearhead coverage of a breaking/developing news story both editorially and logistically
  • Closely work with correspondents and producers in gathering story elements for use on all platforms
  • Identify principal elements of a story, which includes characters, witnesses, documents, UGC and publically accessible materials
  • Build and maintain a network with our affiliates & News Channel counterparts
  • Ability to exercise good news judgement that will result in enterprise content for NewsFix
  • Prior television assignment desk exposure is a requisite, along with a strong and accurate writing resume
  • Knowledge of the Houston metro area is a must
  • Hours will include a flexible schedule during weekdays, with the possibility of weekend availability if needed
  • Minimum 1 year experience working in a leadership role in a newsroom environment
  • Must understand the basic setup of Satellite and TVU technology

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assignment editor definition

Example Assignment Editor Job Description

Our Assignment Editor job description includes the Administrative Assistant responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.

About the Assignment Editor role

An Assignment Editor is responsible for assigning stories and tasks to staff members and freelance journalists. The Assignment Editor ensures that all stories are covered accurately and on time, and that the news coverage meets the publication's standards of quality. Assignment Editors are also in charge of maintaining contacts with news sources, identifying and developing new story ideas, and monitoring news broadcasts and the Internet for breaking stories.

Role Purpose

The purpose of an Assignment Editor is to coordinate and assign news stories and other tasks to reporters, photographers, and other personnel. They are responsible for researching and developing story ideas, identifying potential sources, and determining the best approach to cover stories. They may also vet potential sources and stories, and work with the News Director to ensure that stories are accurate and balanced. Assignment Editors are responsible for maintaining the newsroom workflow and ensuring that deadlines are met.

Assignment Editor Summary

The Assignment Editor is responsible for managing the newsroom’s daily news coverage and assigning reporters and photographers to stories. He or she will be responsible for overseeing content production and distribution and working with reporters, producers, and photographers to ensure timely and accurate coverage. The Assignment Editor will also be responsible for researching story ideas, making editorial decisions, and ensuring that all content meets high journalistic standards. He or she will also be responsible for monitoring news wires, websites, and social media for breaking news and developing story ideas. The Assignment Editor will be required to have excellent written and verbal communication skills and be able to multitask and work quickly in a fast-paced environment.

Assignment Editor Duties

  • Sourcing and assigning stories/segments to reporters and contributors
  • Developing story ideas and working with reporters to cover stories
  • Managing the assignment desk staff
  • Coordinating coverage of breaking news stories
  • Planning and coordinating coverage of special events
  • Monitoring and researching newsworthy developments
  • Developing relationships with freelance and staff reporters
  • Providing editorial guidance and feedback to reporters

Assignment Editor Skills

  • Excellent communication and organizational skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
  • Strong understanding of news writing and editing
  • Ability to multitask and work on multiple projects
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications

Assignment Editor Requirements

  • Write and edit assigned stories
  • Proofread copy for accuracy and clarity
  • Oversee the work of freelancers
  • Research and contact sources for story ideas
  • Maintain knowledge of current affairs
  • Ensure all published content meets standards of quality and accuracy
  • Provide content and production support

Personal Traits

  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Ability to work well under pressure
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to multitask
  • Ability to prioritize tasks

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Assignment Editor Job Description Template

The assignment editor is a crucial member of any news organization. This person is responsible for coordinating coverage, assigning stories to reporters and photographers, and ensuring that all deadlines are met. The job requires excellent organizational skills, strong communication skills, and the ability to think on your feet. If you are interested in a career in journalism or media, a career as an assignment editor might be the right fit for you. This job description template can help you learn more about what the role entails and what qualifications are required.

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Assignment Editor to join our dynamic news team. The Assignment Editor will be responsible for assigning news stories to reporters and ensuring that all news content is accurate, engaging, and timely.

Key Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with news team to identify stories that need coverage
  • Assign stories to reporters based on their strengths and areas of expertise
  • Monitor news feeds, police scanners, and social media for breaking news stories
  • Create rundowns and assign time cues for live broadcasts
  • Coordinate with producers and anchors to ensure accurate reporting and smooth flow of content
  • Develop and maintain relationships with sources and contacts within the community
  • Manage and update newsroom assignment desk systems and calendars
  • Assist in writing stories, headlines, and other news content as needed

Qualifications and Skills

  • Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or related field
  • At least 3 years of experience working in a newsroom environment
  • Strong news judgment and knowledge of current events
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and multitasking skills
  • Familiarity with newsroom software and systems such as ENPS or iNEWS
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
  • Flexibility to work varied shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, as well as opportunities for growth and professional development. If you're a passionate news professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

Introduction

If you’re looking to hire an Assignment Editor, it’s important to create a well thought-out job posting that clearly outlines the role's responsibilities and requirements. This will help to attract the right candidates and make the hiring process much smoother. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create an effective Assignment Editor job posting.

Job Title and Summary

The job title should clearly indicate the position you’re hiring for. In this case, it's an Assignment Editor. The job summary should provide an overview of the role’s main responsibilities and key objectives.

  • Job title: Assignment Editor
  • Job summary: We are seeking an experienced Assignment Editor to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing news assignments and ensuring news stories are accurate and delivered on time.

Responsibilities and Duties

The job responsibilities and duties section should outline the key tasks that the Assignment Editor will be expected to perform in their role.

  • Assign news stories to reporters, photographers, and videographers.
  • Monitor breaking news stories and dispatch crews to the scene.
  • Edit news packages and write headlines.
  • Ensure news stories are accurate and meet the editorial standards.
  • Collaborate with producers and other editors to develop story ideas.

In this section, you should list the qualifications and skills required for the Assignment Editor position. This could include education, previous experience, and computer skills.

  • Bachelor’s degree in journalism or a related field.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience as an Assignment Editor.
  • Excellent writing and editing skills.
  • Strong organizational and planning skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Additional Information

In this section, you can include any additional relevant information about the role such as working hours, salary range, benefits, and how to apply.

  • Working hours: Full-time, flexible schedule.
  • Salary range: $XX to $XX per hour/annually.
  • Benefits: Health insurance, retirement plan, paid time off.
  • To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to [insert email address here].

Creating a clear and detailed Assignment Editor job posting will help you attract the right candidates for the role. Be sure to highlight the key responsibilities, qualifications, and skills required for the position to ensure that you receive applications from the most suitable candidates. By following these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect person for the job.

Frequently Asked Questions on Creating Assignment Editor Job Posting

  • What is an Assignment Editor?

An Assignment Editor is responsible for assigning news stories to journalists or reporters and coordinating with them to ensure deadlines are met.

  • What are the qualifications for an Assignment Editor?

Typically, an Assignment Editor should have a bachelor's degree in journalism or mass communication. They should also have work experience in a newsroom or a similar environment to possess skills in multi-tasking, decision-making and communication.

  • What are the key responsibilities of an Assignment Editor?

An Assignment Editor is responsible for assigning stories to journalists, reviewing and editing their work before publication or broadcast, monitoring news feeds to identify stories, and coordinating with the producers and reporters to meet deadlines.

  • What should I include in my job posting for an Assignment Editor?

Your job posting should include the key responsibilities and required qualifications of an Assignment Editor. It should also mention the expected work hours and any additional benefits offered, like vacations, health benefits, or a 401k plan.

  • What is the average salary for an Assignment Editor?

The salary for an Assignment Editor varies depending on the location of the job and the experience of the candidate. Typically, the average salary for an Assignment Editor is between $50,000 and $70,000 a year in the United States.

  • How long does it take to hire an Assignment Editor?

The hiring process for an Assignment Editor may take between two to four weeks. It involves posting the job description, reviewing resumes, conducting interviews, and performing reference checks before making an offer.

  • What are some essential skills of an Assignment Editor?

Essential skills of an Assignment Editor include excellent communication skills, decision-making abilities, multitasking, resourceful, and time management.

  • Do I need to provide any training for an Assignment Editor?

It depends on the experience level of the candidate. If they are experienced, you may not need to provide additional training. On the other hand, if the candidate is new to the role, you may need to provide some training to help them understand the position and the company culture.

  • How can I attract the right candidates for an Assignment Editor position?

You can attract the right candidates by posting your job description on relevant job boards, mentioning it on your company website, and social media pages. Offer competitive salaries and benefits and show opportunities for growth.

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What does an Assignment Editor do?

An assignment editor is responsible for handling and delegating tasks to news staff, identifying news sources, and developing accurate and efficient news articles for media and publishing companies. Assignment editors monitor situations for the public's awareness, requiring them to work at the office and conduct field investigations alternately. They also manage the scope and limitation of news coverage, finalizing scripts for television airings, and ensuring that all details are factual-based. An assignment editor should be highly communicative and organizational, as well as attentive, having the ability to finish newsworthy stories within strict deadlines.

  • Responsibilities
  • Skills And Traits
  • Comparisions
  • Types of Assignment Editor

Resume

Assignment editor responsibilities

An assignment editor's responsibilities include monitoring police/fire scanners to determine breaking news, distributing content via ftp sites and web-based file sharing servers, and editing promotional, educational, and public relations copy. They also identify and research stories for news broadcasts, verify authenticity and newsworthiness, and collaborate with the news director on short-term and long-term strategic planning for news coverage and community relations. They manage several social media sites to promote viewer interaction, field phone calls, and make a variety of contacts in law enforcement, emergency management, various organizations, and businesses.

Here are examples of responsibilities from real assignment editor resumes:

  • Manage all audio/video material logging, digitizing, and archiving.
  • Manage incoming and outgoing video footage from CBS, ABC, NBC, CNN, and affiliate stations.
  • Manage the Facebook/Twitter social media pages for the station and interact with viewers for the purposes of research and community morale.
  • Manage and create newsletter archives for NASA: http: //www.nasa.gov/centers/langley/home/index.html
  • Experience includes inbound and outbound news gathering via phone, monitoring scanners, sending and receiving video through feeds and FTP.
  • Assign the ENG and search for new histories and planning.
  • Shoot and edit on XDCAM format to complete PKGs, VOSOTS, VOs and Nat PKGs on a daily basis.
  • Operate studio/field HD cameras for GAC productions.
  • Distribute content via ftp sites and web-base file sharing servers.
  • Edit newscasts in studio and stories remotely using Edius editing system
  • Supervise a staff of six reporters on the metro desk.
  • Receive an Emmy nomination in 2011 for a 3-part news series.
  • Collect various video clips from national ABC, CNN and regional news feeds.
  • Edit stories, write headlines and proofread copy for website and print editions.
  • Complete any and all photography work orders in preparation for deployments or promotions.

Assignment editor skills and personality traits

We calculated that 12 % of Assignment Editors are proficient in Twitter , Assignment Desk , and Phone Calls . They’re also known for soft skills such as Detail oriented , Good judgment , and Writing skills .

We break down the percentage of Assignment Editors that have these skills listed on their resume here:

Monitored/updated social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter.

Managed busy evening assignment desk.

Fielded phone calls and made a variety of contacts in law enforcement, emergency management, various organizations and businesses.

Contacted news management in the event of significant breaking news that requires additional resources or would require interrupting regular programming.

Created complete rundown of local newsworthy events and story ideas on a daily basis, as well as research enterprise stories.

Communicated and corresponded with many outside entities, including government agencies and representatives, community organizations, private businesses and citizens.

"twitter," "assignment desk," and "phone calls" are among the most common skills that assignment editors use at work. You can find even more assignment editor responsibilities below, including:

Detail oriented. To carry out their duties, the most important skill for an assignment editor to have is detail oriented. Their role and responsibilities require that "editors must be meticulous to ensure that material is error free and matches the style of a publication." Assignment editors often use detail oriented in their day-to-day job, as shown by this real resume: "compiled story ideas and arranged details for daily news coverage in addition to long-term projects. "

Good judgment. Another essential skill to perform assignment editor duties is good judgment. Assignment editors responsibilities require that "editors decide whether certain stories are ethical and whether there is enough evidence to publish them." Assignment editors also use good judgment in their role according to a real resume snippet: "applied editorial judgment for breaking news coverage, including mobilization of international crews. "

Writing skills. This is an important skill for assignment editors to perform their duties. For an example of how assignment editor responsibilities depend on this skill, consider that "editors ensure that all written content has correct grammar, punctuation, and syntax." This excerpt from a resume also shows how vital it is to everyday roles and responsibilities of an assignment editor: "assisted tv reporters with writing of their news stories. ".

Interpersonal skills. A big part of what assignment editors do relies on "interpersonal skills." You can see how essential it is to assignment editor responsibilities because "in working with writers, editors must have tact and the ability to guide and encourage them in their work." Here's an example of how this skill is used from a resume that represents typical assignment editor tasks: "coordinated interpersonal relations between editorial staff, artists, writers and judges. "

Creativity. A commonly-found skill in assignment editor job descriptions, "creativity" is essential to what assignment editors do. Assignment editor responsibilities rely on this skill because "editors must be imaginative, curious, and knowledgeable in a broad range of topics." You can also see how assignment editor duties rely on creativity in this resume example : "provide creative editing and input into news stories. "

Most common assignment editor skills

The three companies that hire the most assignment editors are:

  • Sinclair Broadcast Group 21 assignment editors jobs
  • Nexstar Media Group 16 assignment editors jobs
  • Paramount 10 assignment editors jobs

Choose from 10+ customizable assignment editor resume templates

Assignment Editor Resume

Compare different assignment editors

Assignment editor vs. journalist.

A journalist is responsible for creating written correspondence, covering various subjects as the management requires. This task involves a lot of research investigations, conducting interviews, and gathering reliable sources to verify the authenticity of data before releasing the articles on news portals and other social platforms. Journalists should have excellent communication skills , both written and oral, conveying information to the target audience with high accuracy and efficiency. They analyze opinions and testimonies, create eye-catching headlines, and ensure adherence to deadlines.

These skill sets are where the common ground ends though. The responsibilities of an assignment editor are more likely to require skills like "assignment desk," "phone calls," "news management," and "government agencies." On the other hand, a job as a journalist requires skills like "excellent interpersonal," "multimedia," "local community," and "mobile phones." As you can see, what employees do in each career varies considerably.

Assignment editor vs. Reporter

In journalism, a reporter is responsible for relaying truthful and reliable information to the public audience through various mediums such as print and media. A reporter must ensure to gather necessary and factual data that are supported by interviews and comments of those involved, remain unbiased in all aspects, produce a concise and comprehensive informational material within an allotted time, and efficiently coordinate with every staff. Furthermore, a reporter must remain professional at all times and adhere to the policies and regulations set by the company or network.

While some skills are similar in these professions, other skills aren't so similar. For example, resumes show us that assignment editor responsibilities requires skills like "assignment desk," "phone calls," "news management," and "government agencies." But a reporter might use other skills in their typical duties, such as, "digital marketing," "facebook," "photography," and "instagram."

Assignment editor vs. Writer

A writer can have different responsibilities depending on which industry or line of work they are involved. There are writers assigned in a corporate setting, some in journalism, while there are also writers in the entertainment Industry. Although they focus on varying types of writing, they all function to inform. Among the typical duties of writers involve producing content within allotted time or deadline, gather information and verify to ensure accuracy, proofread, and undergo review and revisions.

There are many key differences between these two careers, including some of the skills required to perform responsibilities within each role. For example, an assignment editor is likely to be skilled in "assignment desk," "phone calls," "news management," and "local news," while a typical writer is skilled in "work ethic," "strong work ethic," "basic math," and "customer service."

Assignment editor vs. News reporter

News Reporters collect and analyze facts about newsworthy events through interview, investigation, or observation. They carry cameras and take photos and video footage of objects or places of potential significance.

Types of assignment editor

Technical writer, staff writer.

  • Managing Editor

Updated March 14, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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A Look at What Different Editors Do in the Newsroom

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Just as the military has a chain of command, newspapers have a hierarchy of editors responsible for various aspects of the operation.

What Editors Do

Tony Rogers

This graphic shows a typical newsroom hierarchy.

The Publisher

The publisher is the top boss, the person overseeing all aspects of the paper on both the editorial (news) side, as well as the business side. However, depending on the size of the paper, he or she might have little involvement in the day-to-day operations of the newsroom.

The Editor-in-Chief

The editor-in-chief is ultimately responsible for all aspects of the news operation. This includes the content of the paper , the play of stories on the front page, staffing, hiring, and budgets. The editor's involvement with the day-to-day running of the newsroom varies with the size of the paper. On small papers, the editor is very involved; on big papers, slightly less so.

Managing Editor

The managing editor is the one who directly oversees day-to-day operations of the newsroom. More than anyone else, perhaps, the managing editor is the one responsible for getting the paper out every day. The managing editor is also responsible for ensuring the paper's content is the best it can be, and that it meets that paper's standards of journalism. Depending on the size of the paper, the managing editor might have a number of assistant managing editors. These assistants are responsible for specific sections of the paper, such as local news, sports , features, national news, and business, along with the presentation of the articles, which includes copy editing and design.

Assignment Editors

Assignment editors are those directly responsible for the content in a specific section of the paper, such as local, business, sports, features, or national coverage. They are the editors who deal directly with reporters. They assign stories, work with reporters on their coverage, suggest angles and ledes , and do the initial editing of reporters' stories.

Copy Editors

Copy editors typically get reporters' stories after they have been given an initial edit by assignment editors. They edit stories with a focus on the writing, looking at grammar, spelling, flow, transitions, and style. They also make sure the lede is supported by the rest of the story and the angle makes sense.  Copy editors also write headlines, secondary headlines (decks), captions, called cutlines, and takeout quotes. This is collectively called display type. They also work with designers on the presentation of the story, especially on major stories and projects. At larger papers, copy editors often work only in specific sections and develop expertise on that content.

Assignment Editors and Macro Editing

Hero Images/Getty Images

Assignment editors do what is called macro editing. This means that as they edit, they tend to focus on the "big picture" aspect of the story.

Here is a checklist of things assignment editors look for when they are editing:

  • The lede: Does it make sense, is it supported by the rest of the story, is it in the first paragraph or is it buried?
  • The story: Is it thorough and complete? Are there any unanswered questions? Is it fair, balanced and objective?
  • Libel : Are there any statements that might be considered libelous?
  • Writing: Is the story well-written ? Is it clear and understandable?
  • Accuracy: Did the reporter double-check all names, titles and places mentioned in this story? Did the reporter properly check all phone numbers or web addresses?
  • Quotes: Are the quotes accurate and properly attributed?
  • Relevance: Are the story's background and context complete enough to tell readers why the story is relevant?

Copy Editors and Micro Editing

Jaqen (Niccolò Caranti)/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 3.0

Copy editors tend to do what is called micro-editing. This means that as they edit, they to focus on more technical writing aspects of stories, such as Associated Press style, grammar, spelling, accuracy, and general readability. They also act as a backup for assignment editors on such things as the quality and support of the lede, libel, and relevance. Assignment editors also might correct such things as AP style errors or grammar. After copy editors do the fine-tuning on a story, they might take questions to the assigning editor or reporter if there is an issue with the content. After the copy editor is satisfied the story meets all standards, the editor writes a headline and any other display type that is required.

Here is a checklist of things copy editors look for when they are editing:

  • Does the story follow AP style and any exceptions to that style, called house style?
  • Are grammar and punctuation correct?
  • Are there any misspelled words?
  • Are names spelled correctly?
  • Are quotes attributed correctly?
  • Is the lede supported?
  • Is the story objective, clear, and easy to understand?
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TVNewsCheck

The Assignment Editor 2.0: More Collaboration, Newer Tools

assignment editor definition

Back in the late 1990s and early ’00s, when Cater Lee was a reporter for the likes of KNBC and KCAL in Los Angeles, the assignment desk was centrally located in the newsroom. Its editor likely spent extensive time across their day scrolling through police scanners, reading press releases and fielding tipster calls to identify news stories. From it emerged a dictation of Lee’s day.

Purveyors of the newsroom’s assignment desk today, however, are typically less head coach and more quarterback, fronting colorful offenses filled with audibles, option plays and other collaborative trickery that’s designed to always push the ball forward. In other words, story dispersal in a newsroom has increasingly become a team effort, with reporters and producers having more of a say in what makes it to broadcast. Digital technology has also chipped away at the relevance of many dinosaur-era tools assignment editors used to rely on so heavily.

But as the job changes, assignment editors remain a dedicated folk, dug into the frontlines of journalism’s war with mis- and disinformation, while doing their best to help generate broadcasts with wider-reaching community impact. Always, they’re relegated to behind-the-scenes grunt work, and rarely do they get their due.

assignment editor definition

Julie Wolfe

The capable assignment editor, she observes, will “know all the information”: facts to support a package’s viability, sources that a reporter can contact to round it out, and whether a story is worth any airtime to begin with.

A presence like that in a newsroom matches the significance of an engine in a car, as one assignment editor puts it. Wolfe says assignment editors are like “orchestral conductors,” while additional metaphors that float through interviews stem from human biology. One editor calls the assignment desk the newsroom’s brain; others liken the role’s import to that of the heart or central nervous system, for it’s the assignment editor who pumps data to the farthest reaches of the newsroom, which of course now stretches well beyond the walls of an office building.

Social’s Key Role

Along with an innate sense of what makes for a quality newscast, to effectively manage the assignment desk, editors need top-flight organizational and communication skills, just as they have for decades. These days, familiarity with the social media universe is of equal consequence.

“Twitter’s huge,” he says. “When it comes to breaking news, often we’ll see it on Twitter now before we hear it on police scanners, which is just incredible.”

Darren Whitehead, digital desk lead at another Tegna NBC affiliate, KUSA Denver, says Colorado police scanners are encrypted, but monitoring Twitter helps him pick up the slack.

“Most of the ways that the police departments and fire departments are communicating with us is they’re putting out [updates] on social media, and usually it’s not immediate, it’s well after something has happened,” Whitehead says. “We get calls from people in the community being, like, ‘What the hell is going on down the block from me?’ Then we have to call [the responsible agency], and then they tweet out to everyone — without calling us back — all the information.”

Assignment editors set up Tweet Deck channels, or Social News Desk dashboards, where they follow various government agencies, other news sources like the Associated Press and additional relevant accounts where prospective stories may pop up. Dataminr alerts help inform assignment editors, too; neighborhood-focused Reddit forums and community-based apps like Nextdoor can sometimes supply story ideas as well.

Then, there are community-related Facebook groups, which one assignment editor says she joins using a public profile associated with their news team position. Another longtime story assigner says she taps younger newsroom colleagues to examine Instagram, Snapchat and other social media platforms they might be more comfortable navigating through.

Scrutiny’s Imperative

Like in the past with press releases — though assignment editors still lift stories from those on occasion — they can’t take what’s written online at face value. The same can be said for what citizen tipsters tell the assignment editor over the phone or in emails, as well as what public information officers say.

“People ask me what the hell I do, and I always tell them, ‘Well, the assignment desk is usually ‘first response,’” Whitehead says. “You gotta sift through the bullshit.”

While they may have always prioritized backing up facts, with sources, data and other means, assignment editors in 2022 say there is an added emphasis on getting story facts unquestionably correct.

assignment editor definition

Jamila Elder

“There are some stations that report solely off of what they hear on the scanners. We are not that station,” says Jamila Elder, assignment editor at WRAL, Capitol Broadcasting’s NBC affiliate in Raleigh, N.C. “You dig deep, you reach out to your contacts and you wait until you get [your information] confirmed, even though your competition station may be reporting it. As an assignment editor that’s very frustrating because we’re very competitive; you want to get the information and you want to get it first, [but] we would rather wait and get it right, than to report it first and get it wrong.”

Experience Matters

In many cases, as one assignment editor puts it, newsies “fall into” their positions at the assignment desk. The experience they bring with them, often as a reporter or anchor, serves them well in the role.

assignment editor definition

WXIN-WTTV Indianapolis assignment desk personnel (l-r): Adam Bartels, Ruthanne Gordon, Tim O’Brien and Sabrina Adams. (Greg Wilkerson photo)

Prior to Ruthanne Gordon becoming senior planning manager for Nexstar’s WXIN (Fox)-WTTV (CBS) Indianapolis, she was an assignment editor for 33 years. Before that, she was a reporter and anchor for more than five years, bringing with her to the assignment desk an assortment of connections from her front-of-the-camera days that she continues to call upon. Her phone book has only ballooned bigger throughout her 45 years in news.

“I have quite a Rolodex,” Gordon says, “I think that’s what they wanted when I came to this position as senior planning manager.” Cops she first met doing stand-ups, she says, “are now the commanders here in town, so I’ve kept those cell numbers, and that’s where I have an advantage.”

Working as a journalist before manning the assignment desk also helps cultivate that vital instinct of what makes for a compelling newscast. However, the assignment desk is also a prime location for industry newbies to break in and learn — a lot — on the fly.

“You gotta pay your dues by working the weekends,” Elder says. “That was where I learned the most because you don’t have a lot of managers, so you have to make those on-the-spot decisions. So, I was able to make those mistakes on that weekend shift, but I was also able to learn from those mistakes and learn how to make good news decisions.”

“This is a great way of starting and learning,” Gordon says of the assignment desk gig. Calling it a way to “fast-track” those new to the industry, she adds: “You can jump off of this and go produce a show [or] jump in a truck and go do an interview.”

Kendra Gilbert, senior assignment editor at KING, had no experience in a TV newsroom before hopping into the assignment desk chair at a station in her home market of Fresno, Calif. Fresh out of college, she struggled to find work in print journalism, her focus of study in school. But that degree still meant she could sniff out a good story and, combining that sense with strong organizational and communication skills, she was confident she could fill the seat just fine.

assignment editor definition

Kendra Gilbert

She’s held an assignment editor position at one West Coast station or another for nine years running. She says to excel in the role one has to be comfortable working in “a fast-paced environment,” and have the ability to “turn on a dime” and “focus on one thing and switch to another.”

Collaboration Grows

Elder statesman Gordon says of the assignment editor job demands: “It keeps me young.” Both she and the more youthful Gilbert say the position has also become more collaborative in recent years.

“We do sort of have that gatekeeper role,” Gilbert says. Still, she continues, “there’s always this two-way exchange of information between the desk and the reporters.”

Assignment editors consider reporter strengths, areas of interest and experience when deciding in whose hands a story will be entrusted. But they also field pitches from reporters and engage in broad conversations about the day’s items of interest with various members of the team.

“Nobody runs on their own in here; we have a tight-knit group [and] we back each other up,” Gordon says of the group at her Nexstar stations. “If we have spot news … we all jump in, and that’s the key to a really good assignment desk. You give and take, and you have that flexibility that at the end of the day, we’ve covered it, we’ve got it, we’ve got angles that nobody else has thought of.”

Not only does the team effort behind story assignment potentially add layers and depth to an eventual package, but it reinforces the integrity of the news it delivers across an entire broadcast, day in, day out.

In the constant struggle to identify mis- and disinformation, while also presenting stories in appropriate context, “that is where a collective, collaborative culture of a newsroom saves you,” KING’s Wolfe says. “If you are, as a team, having editorial checks, conversations, diverse viewpoints, bringing different people in, then you can catch those things and catch yourself and find the right story.

“That’s why I think having a diverse newsroom is so key, because different people are going to see different things and think about different questions and weigh that story against their own experience …. Whether it’s a big newsroom or a small newsroom, getting people together to talk about stories is just really, really important.” she says.

Decentralized Approach

One would be hard-pressed to find a more profound example of the increasingly collaborative nature the assignment editor’s job has assumed over the past handful of years than the organizational structure at Lee’s Southern California Spectrum News channel.

In an effort to cover the market’s five counties, across a sprawling megalopolis, her channel employs an assignment editor manager and four individual assignment editors, each of whom are primarily stationed in different parts of the region: north, south, east and west. They report to the station’s office in El Segundo once per week on a rotating basis, but otherwise they’re out in the field, working closely with reporters as they scour for stories and continually develop relationships with sources.

Lee says the more decentralized arrangement allows for her newsroom to be less “reactive” — as others have been historically — and more “proactive,” engaging in “enterprise storytelling.”

“Of course, we still react, because there’s breaking news,” Lee says, “but when there is real enterprise storytelling, you’re working in advance, working your sources and your community and really becoming experts on the ground, and it’s been an amazing collaboration.

“That’s what has gotten lost, is the idea that, really, journalists should have their ears on the ground, they should be developing beats and sources, and they should be working with assignment editors — story planners — to figure out the best way to tell those stories together,” she says. “It’s been a really exciting team approach to newsgathering.”

Seeking Deeper Impact

Whether they’ve been part of an experiment in cutting-edge structural invention or traditionally clock into the newsroom and sit at a stationary desk throughout their shift, assignment editors bear the brunt of the responsibility to shuttle broadcasts away from coverage of police blotter-discovered stories, such as shootings, robberies, and fires. Today’s consumers are craving more from their TV news, and stories with farther-reaching impact have to be sought out by those tasked with assigning them to reporters.

“We definitely are trying to be mindful of stories that are affecting more people in our community,” says WRAL’s Elder. “Gone are the days of ‘If it bleeds, it leads.’ That was old school.”

Still, it’s not entirely true that crime and property destruction should completely be dismissed. “When it comes to your family’s safety, the safety of your business, being able to walk down the sidewalk in your city, that is super-relevant to our viewers,” Wolfe says. “The idea that crime is not relevant is the wrong approach. The right approach is: How do we add information and context? How do we stand for truth and hold people accountable? What does the data tell us about that crime? That’s where the impactful stories are.”

Weighing all these factors in choosing stories, maintaining a constantly updated contact database with identifying tags, ensuring that reports are factually concrete and so many other responsibilities, the assignment editor job is certainly not for everybody. But those who do it well can honorably take tremendous pride in their work, which, if nothing else, is undeniably relentless.

“You should never be bored on the assignment desk,” KING’s Gilbert says. “It’s not a place where you can complete one task and then kick back and say, ‘I’ve done it for the day.’ You should always be busy.”

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assignment editor definition

Corrie Harding says:

March 8, 2022 at 9:11 am

Great write up. I would add one piece of perspective on the ‘parts of the body’ metaphor. In my experience, the Assignment Desk can be the hands reaching out in the dark, or the ears listening for the important ‘sounds’ or the ‘eyes’ looking toward the horizon. All in addition to being part of ‘the brain.’ Ruthanne nailed it. The key is that a video based, broadcast/digital newsroom must have a desk, producers, reporters, and managers that act in a symbiotic relationship. Each must be able to quickly shift based on the news department’s overall vision, and always support each other.

assignment editor definition

LeCouteur says:

June 13, 2022 at 9:24 am

I never knew how to write beautifully when I needed it, I spent Sleepless nights to write At least a more or less beautiful text, but as a result, I began to turn to similar writing services and my life became much easier and the texts are much better, because on such services the text professionals write, you just have to learn the text

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"ASSIGNMENT EDITOR" Job Description and Jobs

Job description:.

  • 1) Supervises and coordinates activities of radio or television news gathering staff: Maintains contact with outside news agencies, police and fire departments, and other news sources to obtain information regarding developing news items.
  • 2) Determines priority and assigns coverage to news units.
  • 3) Originates or approves ideas for news features.
  • 4) Confers with DIRECTOR, NEWS and department heads to coordinate production activities.
  • 5) Reads and edits news copy to ensure that slanderous, libelous, and profane statements are avoided or deleted.
  • 6) Prepares rundown of news stories and assignment sheets, using computer.
  • 7) Communicates with reporters on assignments, using two-way radio.
  • 8) May direct or participate in writing and editing activities.

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Assignment Editor

What is an assignment editor the driving force behind the hottest news stories.

assignment editor definition

More people are glued to their phones and TV screens than ever before, fascinated by current events from around the world. Have you ever wondered who’s in charge of planning the content that makes it to the front of the line? A lot of that responsibility falls on the assignment editor, which is someone who spends their time collaborating with various sources to develop and plan reporting assignments.

What do the typical duties of an assignment editor consist of?

  • Communicate with inbound public reports
  • Assign writers, editors, journalists, and photographers to follow-up on leads
  • Listen to police scanners and monitor social media
  • Develop relationships with local law enforcement, fire departments, and government offices
  • Fact-check, edit, and design final presentations 

Assignment editors need to have a firm grasp of what the public wants to see and hear, so critical thinking skills are a must. This is a fast-paced position that’s not for the faint of heart. If you excel in a high-stress, deadline-driven environment, and are good at  building lasting relationships , then this might just be a fantastic career choice for you.

Thankfully, in this article, we’ll review everything you need to know to land a position as an assignment editor. We’ll first cover the typical requirements, including past experience, education, and training. Then, we’ll give an example of what a job post might look like. Lastly, we’ll examine salaries, work schedules, and work environment in detail.

Typical Requirements for Becoming an Assignment Editor

assignment editor definition

Landing a position as an assignment editor takes time, passion, and commitment. The landscape is competitive, and employers will have plenty of candidates to choose from. Here’s what they typically look for:

  • Job Experience

Experience trumps all when it comes to obtaining a position as an assignment editor. Qualified candidates should have at least 2-years of experience working in print or broadcast journalism. Including copywriting, staff writing, editing, and research.  Completing an internship  in a similar line of work will also be helpful.

The ability to forge strong professional relationships is crucial – since you’ll be collaborating with different public and government entities. Because of this, be sure to describe your role in any group projects to show you’re a team player with the ability to lead.

  • Education Background

While experience is the driving force behind any successful candidate, having an education shows a certain level of commitment. Employers usually look for at least a 4-year degree in either communications, journalism, English, or broadcasting.

Having exceptional organizational skills is crucial for an assignment editor since you’ll be juggling numerous projects at once. Be sure to highlight any past projects that show your ability to prioritize and delegate.

  • Training and Certifications

There’s always someone more qualified, so you must find ways to stand out from the crowd. While there are no specific certifications required to land a position as an assignment editor, mentioning anything related will help.

As with most specialized positions, relevant training happens on the job. Because of this, previous experience working in a newsroom is seen as beneficial. A few outlets for gaining experience include internships, college newspapers, or entry-level positions at smaller TV or radio stations.

Sample Assignment Editor Job Description

XYZ News is seeking an energetic, creative, and aggressive assignment editor for a full-time position. Previous experience working in a newsroom is a must. Must be able to build contacts, generate ideas and stories, and be able to act decisively without hesitation. Problem-solving skills and the ability to overcome all obstacles is crucial for this fast-paced position.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Communicate effectively with producers and managers
  • Monitor police scanners for breaking news
  • Post breaking news stories to social media
  • Help coordinate all newscasts
  • Respond to inbound calls and check tip lines and emails
  • Follow breaking stories and track developments
  • Assist reporters, locate court documents, and research stories
  • Coordinate field crews
  • Contribute story ideas
  • Monitor social media and websites

Required experience, skills, and education include:

  • Minimum of 2-years of experience working in a newsroom
  • Experience using Twitter, Facebook, and other emerging social media platforms
  • Basic understanding of computers and word processors
  • General knowledge of national, local, and world news
  • Commitment to journalistic standards of accuracy and ethics
  • Work well under pressure and excel in a deadline-driven environment
  • 4-year degree with a major in journalism or broadcasting is also preferred

Assignment Editor Salary, Work Schedule, and Work Environment

assignment editor definition

Glassdoor  puts the average base-pay for assignment editors at $52,107. This ranges from a low of about $35,000, to a high of $79,000. Though, if you happen to land a position in a larger newsroom, like The Washington Post, Fox News, or CNN, then you’re looking around $100,000 depending on previous experience. There are extremes on each side of the equation, but if you stick with it, you’ll move up quickly.

As they say, the news never sleeps. If you accept a position as an assignment editor, expect to put in some long hours. This usually includes weekends, evenings, and the occasional holiday. Since the day-to-day activities for most crew members are delegated by the assignment editor, expect to arrive earlier than most.

  • Environment

Pressure, pressure, and more pressure. As an assignment editor, you’ll be expected to perform well under pressure. This means juggling multiple deadlines at the same time, answering questions, responding to leads, and reviewing all stories before they go live. If this sounds like an environment you’d thrive in, then you’ll never have a dull moment.

Final Thoughts for Landing a Position as an Assignment Editor

If you’re driven to succeed, excel in a fast-paced setting and don’t mind a little pressure. Then the exciting world of print and broadcast news might be the perfect career decision. Be sure to build a contact list early-on in your career to make yourself a valuable asset. You can also join a professional association such as the  National Association of Broadcasters  to ensure you’re following any industry best practices.

Thanks for reading – and we wish you luck with landing your dream job as an assignment editor.

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assignment editor definition

A Comprehensive Guide to News Assignment Editor Careers

  • Published: November 26, 2023
  • By: Yellowbrick

In the fast-paced world of journalism, news assignment editors play a crucial role in ensuring that stories are covered efficiently and effectively. These professionals are responsible for coordinating and assigning reporters to various news stories, managing deadlines, and ensuring that newsrooms run smoothly. If you have a passion for news and a knack for organization, a career as a news assignment editor may be the perfect fit for you. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the ins and outs of news assignment editor jobs, including the skills required, the responsibilities involved, and the steps you can take to land your dream job in this exciting field.

1. What is a News Assignment Editor?

A news assignment editor is a key player in the newsroom who is responsible for determining which news stories will be covered and assigning reporters to cover them. They work closely with reporters, photographers, and other newsroom staff to ensure that news stories are covered accurately and efficiently. News assignment editors also play a crucial role in managing deadlines and ensuring that news stories are delivered on time.

2. Skills Required for News Assignment Editor Jobs

To excel as a news assignment editor, certain skills are essential. These skills include:

  • Strong Organizational Skills: News assignment editors must be highly organized individuals who can juggle multiple tasks and assignments simultaneously. They need to keep track of various news stories, assign reporters to cover them, and ensure that deadlines are met.
  • Excellent Communication Skills: Effective communication is key in the news industry. News assignment editors must be able to clearly convey instructions and expectations to reporters and other newsroom staff. They must also be skilled at building relationships and networking with various sources and contacts.
  • News Judgment: News assignment editors need to have a keen sense of news judgment and be able to identify which stories are newsworthy. They must be able to assess the importance and impact of different news stories and assign reporters accordingly.
  • Problem-Solving Abilities: In a fast-paced news environment, problems and challenges are bound to arise. News assignment editors must be quick thinkers who can come up with solutions on the spot. They need to be able to handle unexpected situations and make decisions under pressure.
  • Knowledge of News Industry: A deep understanding of the news industry is crucial for news assignment editors. They must stay up-to-date with current events, news trends, and industry developments. This knowledge helps them make informed decisions and assign reporters to stories that align with the news organization’s goals and values.

3. Responsibilities of a News Assignment Editor

News assignment editors have a wide range of responsibilities that contribute to the smooth functioning of a newsroom. Some of the key responsibilities include:

  • Story Assignment: News assignment editors are responsible for determining which news stories will be covered by the news organization. They assess the importance and relevance of different stories and assign reporters accordingly.
  • Deadline Management: Meeting deadlines is crucial in the news industry. News assignment editors play a crucial role in ensuring that reporters deliver their stories on time. They must effectively manage deadlines and communicate expectations to reporters.
  • Coordination with Reporters: News assignment editors work closely with reporters, providing them with assignments, guidance, and support. They must ensure that reporters have all the necessary information and resources to cover their assigned stories.
  • Communication with Other Newsroom Staff: News assignment editors are the bridge between reporters and other newsroom staff. They must effectively communicate with photographers, videographers, editors, and other team members to ensure that all aspects of a news story are covered.
  • Newsroom Collaboration: News assignment editors collaborate with other newsroom staff to ensure the smooth functioning of the news organization. They work closely with editors, producers, and news directors to align coverage with the organization’s goals and objectives.
  • Breaking News Coverage: In the event of breaking news, news assignment editors must be able to quickly mobilize resources and assign reporters to cover the story. They must be able to make quick decisions and adapt to changing circumstances.

4. How to Become a News Assignment Editor

If you aspire to become a news assignment editor, here are some steps you can take to kickstart your career:

  • Pursue a Journalism Degree: While a journalism degree is not always required, it can provide you with a solid foundation in news reporting and journalism ethics. Consider pursuing a degree in journalism, media studies, or a related field.
  • Gain Experience: Internships and entry-level positions in news organizations can provide valuable hands-on experience and help you develop the skills necessary for a career as a news assignment editor. Look for opportunities to work in newsrooms and gain exposure to newsroom operations.
  • Hone Your Skills: Aspiring news assignment editors should focus on developing the skills required for the role. Work on improving your organizational skills, communication abilities, and news judgment. Seek feedback from mentors and supervisors to identify areas for improvement.
  • Network: Networking is crucial in the news industry. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with journalists and newsroom professionals. Building relationships can open doors to job opportunities and help you stay informed about industry developments.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up with current events and news trends. Read newspapers, follow news websites, and engage with news content across various platforms. A deep understanding of the news industry will make you a more effective news assignment editor.
  • Further Education: Consider pursuing advanced education or specialized training in journalism or a related field. This can help you stand out from the competition and enhance your knowledge and skills.

Key Takeaways:

  • News assignment editors play a crucial role in coordinating and assigning reporters to cover news stories, managing deadlines, and ensuring the smooth functioning of newsrooms.
  • Skills required for news assignment editor jobs include strong organizational skills, excellent communication abilities, news judgment, problem-solving abilities, and knowledge of the news industry.
  • Responsibilities of news assignment editors include story assignment, deadline management, coordination with reporters and other newsroom staff, newsroom collaboration, and breaking news coverage.
  • To become a news assignment editor, consider pursuing a journalism degree, gaining experience through internships and entry-level positions, honing your skills, networking, staying informed about current events and news trends, and considering further education or specialized training.

Consider taking the “NYU | Modern Journalism” online course and certificate program offered by Yellowbrick to further develop your skills and knowledge in the field of journalism. This comprehensive program can provide you with valuable insights and practical experience to excel as a news assignment editor. Take the next step towards your dream career and enroll in the “NYU | Modern Journalism” course today.

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Top 18 Assignment Editor Resume Objective Examples

Photo of Brenna Goyette

Updated July 7, 2023 14 min read

A resume objective is a brief statement that communicates your career goals and highlights your qualifications for the position you are applying for. When writing an assignment editor resume objective, it is important to emphasize your knowledge of broadcasting, editing, and production techniques. You should also showcase any relevant experience you have in these areas. Additionally, you can include any other skills or qualities that make you a strong candidate for the position such as communication abilities and organizational skills.

For example, an effective resume objective might read "Experienced assignment editor with 5+ years of experience in news broadcasting seeking to leverage my expertise in editing, production, and communication to contribute to ABC News." This clearly communicates your career goals and highlights the key skills necessary for the job. Another example could be “Innovative assignment editor with a proven track record of success in digital media production looking to apply my technical skillset at XYZ News Station.” By including relevant examples from your own experience, you can show potential employers that you are the right fit for their organization.

Assignment Editor Resume Example

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Top 18 Assignment Editor Resume Objective Samples

  • To leverage my 5 years of experience as an Assignment Editor to contribute to the success of a top-tier news organization.
  • To secure a position as an Assignment Editor with a reputable media outlet and utilize my experience in strategic planning, project management, and content development.
  • Seeking an Assignment Editor role at a leading media company where I can use my knowledge of newsroom operations and editorial processes.
  • To obtain an Assignment Editor position with a well-known news outlet that will allow me to utilize my strong organizational skills and knowledge of current events.
  • Looking for an Assignment Editor role at an established media organization where I can apply my expertise in content creation, scheduling, and editing.
  • Seeking a challenging position as an Assignment Editor with a respected media company where I can utilize my creative problem-solving abilities.
  • To gain employment as an Assignment Editor with a successful news outlet that values innovation and creativity.
  • To secure a position as an Assignment Editor at a prestigious media organization that will allow me to use my communication skills and attention to detail.
  • Aiming for the role of Assignment Editor at a prominent news station that will benefit from my experience in breaking news coverage.
  • Seeking an opportunity to work as an Assignment Editor for a renowned media outlet that will capitalize on my ability to develop compelling stories.
  • To join a dynamic team of professionals as an Assignment Editor by utilizing my knowledge of journalistic standards and practices.
  • Looking for the opportunity to apply my extensive research skills in the role of Assignment Editor at a major network.
  • Desire to be part of the editorial team at ABC News by taking on the role of Assignment Editor and utilizing my multitasking abilities.
  • Seeking employment as an experienced assignment editor who is able to work independently while meeting tight deadlines in fast-paced environments.
  • Applying for the position of assignment editor with ABC News, where I can use my writing skills and efficient time management abilities to produce quality content quickly under tight deadlines.
  • Eager to join XYZ News as their next assignment editor, leveraging four years’ experience working within broadcast journalism environments in order to drive successful outcomes through effective story selection and coordination across multiple departments.
  • Passionate about becoming part of ABC News’s team by taking on the role of assignment editor, utilizing five years’ experience working within broadcast journalism settings along with excellent organizational skills for coordinating stories across multiple departments efficiently while meeting tight deadlines without compromising quality standards or accuracy levels.
  • Looking forward to joining XYZ News’s team by taking on the role of assignment editor, leveraging six years’ experience working within broadcast journalism environments along with excellent communication skills for effectively coordinating stories across multiple departments while meeting tight deadlines without compromising quality standards or accuracy levels

How to Write an Assignment Editor Resume Objective

Writing a resume objective is an important step to take when creating a resume. A resume objective is a brief statement that expresses the primary goal of your job search, and it should be tailored specifically to the position you’re applying for. As an assignment editor, your objective should highlight your skills and experience in managing deadlines, editing content, and communicating with various teams.

A strong assignment editor resume objective begins with a brief explanation of who you are and what type of role you are seeking. For example, “Experienced Assignment Editor seeking to use my technical skills and knowledge in deadline management to help a news organization succeed.” This statement not only tells the reader that you have experience as an assignment editor but also provides insight into the type of work you can do for them.

Next, list some of the key skills or qualifications that make you qualified for the position. These could include proficiency in digital media platforms such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro; excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to edit content quickly; organizational skills; and knowledge of journalism standards and practices.

Finally, explain how these qualifications will help you contribute to the organization’s success. For example, “I can use my editing expertise to ensure stories are accurately reported and presented on time while also helping the team develop new content ideas based on current trends.” Your objective should demonstrate why you would be a great addition to their team while also showing how your talents can add value to their organization.

By crafting an effective resume objective, you can give employers a better understanding of your capabilities as an assignment editor while also making sure they know what kind of job you are looking for. With a well-written statement at the top of your resume, employers will be more likely to consider your application when looking for potential candidates for their open positions.

Related : What does an Assignment Editor do?

Key Skills to Highlight in Your Assignment Editor Resume Objective

As an assignment editor, your resume objective should not only highlight your career goals but also showcase the key skills that make you an ideal candidate for the job. This section is crucial as it provides potential employers with a snapshot of your abilities and can set the tone for the rest of your resume. The following are some essential skills to emphasize in your assignment editor resume objective, which can help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of landing the job.

1. Proofreading

An assignment editor often deals with a large amount of written content, including news stories, articles, and reports. Proofreading is an essential skill for this job as it ensures that the content is free from errors, inconsistencies, and inaccuracies. A high level of attention to detail in grammar, punctuation, spelling and format is required to maintain the credibility and professionalism of the published content. Including proofreading in a resume objective shows potential employers that you have the necessary skills to produce clean, polished, and error-free work.

2. Fact-checking

An Assignment Editor often deals with a large amount of information and news stories. Fact-checking is a crucial skill to ensure the accuracy and credibility of these stories. It helps in maintaining the integrity of the content, avoiding misinformation, and increasing audience trust. Therefore, mentioning this skill in a resume objective can highlight one's ability to deliver reliable and high-quality work.

3. Time management

An Assignment Editor often has to juggle multiple tasks and deadlines at once. They need to be able to prioritize assignments, allocate resources effectively, and ensure that all work is completed on time. Therefore, strong time management skills are crucial in order to maintain efficiency and productivity in this role. This skill also demonstrates the ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines, which is essential for a fast-paced editorial environment.

4. Story selection

An Assignment Editor needs the skill of story selection to effectively determine which stories are newsworthy and relevant for their audience. This involves understanding current events, audience interests, and journalistic standards. Including this skill in a resume objective demonstrates an ability to make critical decisions and prioritize tasks, which is crucial for managing the flow of news in a fast-paced environment.

5. InDesign proficiency

An Assignment Editor often needs to manage, edit and layout content for various media platforms. InDesign is a popular software used for these tasks. Proficiency in InDesign demonstrates the ability to effectively arrange and present information in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that the content is engaging and accessible to the audience. This skill is crucial for an Assignment Editor as it directly impacts the quality of the final output.

6. SEO optimization

An Assignment Editor often deals with digital content that needs to be visible and easily accessible to the target audience. SEO optimization is a skill that ensures the content is discoverable on search engines, thereby increasing its reach and effectiveness. This skill is crucial for a resume objective as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to enhance online visibility, drive web traffic, and contribute to content strategy and planning. It also shows their understanding of digital marketing trends and algorithms which are essential in today's digital-focused media landscape.

7. AP Style knowledge

An Assignment Editor often needs to review, edit and assign news stories or articles. Having knowledge of AP (Associated Press) Style is crucial as it is the standard in journalism and ensures consistency and clarity in writing. This skill demonstrates the editor's ability to uphold industry standards, enhance readability, and maintain professionalism in all written communications. It also shows their attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.

8. Team coordination

An assignment editor often has to manage multiple tasks and coordinate with various departments or teams to ensure smooth operations. Team coordination skills are essential for this role as they enable the individual to effectively delegate tasks, manage workflows, and ensure that all team members are working cohesively towards common objectives. This skill is crucial in maintaining productivity, meeting deadlines, and achieving high-quality results. Therefore, highlighting this skill in a resume objective can showcase the candidate's ability to efficiently manage and lead a team.

9. Content curation

An Assignment Editor often needs to sort through, select, and organize content for various projects. This requires a keen eye for detail and an understanding of what content will best fit the project's objectives. Content curation skills demonstrate that the candidate can effectively manage and utilize available resources to create compelling narratives or reports. It also shows their ability to discern quality content from a vast array of sources, ensuring only the most relevant and impactful material is used.

10. Google Analytics

As an Assignment Editor, one needs to have a keen understanding of audience behavior and engagement. Google Analytics is a tool that can provide insights into website traffic, user behavior, and content performance. This skill is crucial for making data-driven decisions about what kind of assignments are most engaging for the audience, hence improving the overall content strategy. It also helps in tracking the success of published assignments and adjusting future strategies accordingly. Therefore, having Google Analytics as a skill on a resume showcases the ability to utilize data effectively to enhance content planning and management.

Top 10 Assignment Editor Skills to Add to Your Resume Objective

In conclusion, your Assignment Editor resume objective should effectively showcase a range of key skills that make you an ideal candidate for the role. It is essential to highlight these skills in a concise and compelling manner to grab the attention of potential employers. Remember, your objective is not just about stating what you want from the job, but rather demonstrating what you can bring to the table. Tailoring your skills to match the specific requirements of the job description can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview.

Related : Assignment Editor Skills: Definition and Examples

Common Mistakes When Writing an Assignment Editor Resume Objective

Writing an assignment editor resume objective can be a challenging task. It’s important to make sure that the objective you write conveys the right message about your skills and experience, as well as your goals for the job. Unfortunately, there are some common mistakes that people make when writing their assignment editor resume objectives.

One of the most common mistakes is using a generic statement such as “seeking a position as an assignment editor” or “seeking employment in an editorial role.” While these statements may seem like they would work, they don’t actually tell potential employers anything about what you bring to the table or what your goals are for the position. Instead, try to tailor your statement to the specific job you’re applying for by highlighting your qualifications and experience that make you a great fit for that job.

Another mistake people often make is not providing enough detail in their objectives. Your objective should be concise but also provide enough information to give potential employers an idea of why you think you would be a good fit for the role. This means including details about what makes you qualified for this particular job, such as how your past experience has prepared you for this role or any special skills or knowledge that could help you succeed in it.

Finally, people often forget to include their career goals in their assignment editor resume objectives. While this might seem minor, it can actually be very important because it shows employers that you have thought about where you want to go with your career and how this particular job fits into those plans. Including something about what kind of growth and development opportunities you hope to gain from the position can give potential employers insight into who you are and why they should hire you.

By avoiding these common mistakes when writing an assignment editor resume objective, you can ensure that yours stands out from other applicants and gives potential employers a better sense of who you are and why they should choose you for the position.

Related : Assignment Editor Resume Examples

Assignment Editor Resume Objective Example

The right resume objective for an assignment editor should focus on the applicant's qualifications and goals, while a wrong resume objective may be too general or vague.

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Brenna Goyette

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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COMMENTS

  1. Assignment Editor Job Description: Salary, Skills, & More

    An assignment editor works at the assignment desk, which is the nerve center of any newsroom. This is where newsroom staff members monitor multiple sources for breaking news, including police and fire scanners. When possible news arises, the assignment editor works with reporters, photographers, producers, and other staff members to assign and ...

  2. Assignment editor

    An assignment editor often has a minimum of one year of experience working for a particular news organization and a number of years of experience working in journalism, usually as a line or copy editor, or even a staff writer. An assignment editor is expected to be well versed in journalistic standards and ethics and have good knowledge of the ...

  3. What does an Assignment Editor do?

    An assignment editor is a journalist who is responsible for assigning stories to reporters. They also often help plan coverage of breaking news stories. Assignment Editor job duties include: Researching and writing stories for the newscast. Assigning reporters to stories. Working with producers on story placement and content.

  4. What is an assignment editor and how to become one

    It takes approximately 6 to 8 years to become an assignment editor. Year 1-4: Bachelor's DegreeMost assignment editors need a bachelor's degree. This typically takes 4 years to complete. Year 5-8: ExperienceAfter earning a degree, gaining 2 to 4 years of experience in journalism or a related field is typical for assignment editors.

  5. Assignment Editor: Job Description, Newsgathering Tips

    Watch on. At the heart of every newsroom is an assignment desk, where assignment editors figure out what news stories to cover around the clock. They make constant phone calls, listen to police radios and sift through emails to get news tips and background information from officials and the public. They contribute to editorial meetings with ...

  6. Assignment Editor: What Is It? and How to Become One?

    An assignment editor develops news stories and assigns journalists to cover breaking news. In this career, your duties include working with a writer, photographer, or reporter to cover all necessary aspects of a news story. Your responsibilities may be slightly different depending on where you work. Assignment editors can work in radio ...

  7. Assignment Editor Job Description

    The editor will be responsible for assigning and editing stories and running the news team for the first few hours on the 6 am shift. The editor will work close with colleagues on the video team to develop cross-platform packages. The editor will also report and write stories, either breaking news or features, usually in the second half of the ...

  8. Unlocking Success: A Guide to the Assignment Editor Career Path

    An assignment editor plays a crucial role in the newsroom by coordinating and assigning news stories to journalists and other team members. Skills required for success as an assignment editor include a strong news sense, excellent communication and organizational skills, adaptability, and the ability to work well under pressure. ...

  9. What does an Assignment Editor do? Role & Responsibilities

    What does an Assignment Editor do? An editor is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and quality of a company's written materials. They are responsible for planning and creating written materials. A few of the main duties of an editor are editing copy and improving on it, educate writers on best practices, identify ways to improve the flow of ...

  10. 12 Assignment Editor Skills: Definition and Examples

    1. Be organized. An assignment editor needs to be organized in order to keep track of all the stories that need to be covered. This includes knowing what stories have been assigned to which reporters and making sure that all the details are accounted for. 2. Be a good communicator. An assignment editor needs to be a good communicator in order ...

  11. Example Assignment Editor Job Description

    An Assignment Editor is responsible for assigning stories and tasks to staff members and freelance journalists. The Assignment Editor ensures that all stories are covered accurately and on time, and that the news coverage meets the publication's standards of quality. Assignment Editors are also in charge of maintaining contacts with news ...

  12. Assignment Editor Job Description Template

    The assignment editor is a crucial member of any news organization. This person is responsible for coordinating coverage, assigning stories to reporters and photographers, and ensuring that all deadlines are met. The job requires excellent organizational skills, strong communication skills, and the ability to think on your feet.

  13. Assignment Editor Job Description And Requirements

    An assignment editor is responsible for handling and delegating tasks to news staff, identifying news sources, and developing accurate and efficient news articles for media and publishing companies. Assignment editors monitor situations for the public's awareness, requiring them to work at the office and conduct field investigations alternately ...

  14. What does an Assignment Editor do?

    An assignment editor is responsible for handling and delegating tasks to news staff, identifying news sources, and developing accurate and efficient news articles for media and publishing companies. Assignment editors monitor situations for the public's awareness, requiring them to work at the office and conduct field investigations alternately.

  15. News Assignment Editor: What Is It? and How to Become One?

    The responsibilities of a news assignment editor at a newspaper, digital news source, radio, or TV news program are to identify newsworthy stories and assign reporters, photographers, or TV crews to cover each story. As a news assignment editor, you coordinate with internal resources as well as subjects, PR personnel, and other managers to ...

  16. What Are the Responsibilities of a News Assignment Editor?

    The responsibilities of a news assignment editor at a newspaper, digital news source, radio, or TV news program are to identify newsworthy stories and assign reporters, photographers, or TV crews to cover each story. As a news assignment editor, you coordinate with internal resources as well as subjects, PR personnel, and other managers to ...

  17. What Do Different Kinds of Editors Do in the Newsroom?

    The Editor-in-Chief . The editor-in-chief is ultimately responsible for all aspects of the news operation. This includes the content of the paper, the play of stories on the front page, staffing, hiring, and budgets. The editor's involvement with the day-to-day running of the newsroom varies with the size of the paper. ... Assignment editors do ...

  18. The Assignment Editor 2.0: More Collaboration, Newer Tools

    The capable assignment editor, she observes, will "know all the information": facts to support a package's viability, sources that a reporter can contact to round it out, and whether a story is worth any airtime to begin with. A presence like that in a newsroom matches the significance of an engine in a car, as one assignment editor puts it.

  19. ASSIGNMENT EDITOR

    5) Reads and edits news copy to ensure that slanderous, libelous, and profane statements are avoided or deleted. 6) Prepares rundown of news stories and assignment sheets, using computer. 7) Communicates with reporters on assignments, using two-way radio. 8) May direct or participate in writing and editing activities. How can we help you with ...

  20. Assignment Editor

    Assignment Editor Salary, Work Schedule, and Work Environment. Salary; Glassdoor puts the average base-pay for assignment editors at $52,107. This ranges from a low of about $35,000, to a high of $79,000. Though, if you happen to land a position in a larger newsroom, like The Washington Post, Fox News, or CNN, then you're looking around ...

  21. A Comprehensive Guide to News Assignment Editor Careers

    A news assignment editor is a key player in the newsroom who is responsible for determining which news stories will be covered and assigning reporters to cover them. They work closely with reporters, photographers, and other newsroom staff to ensure that news stories are covered accurately and efficiently. News assignment editors also play a ...

  22. 12 Assignment Editor Skills: Definition and Examples

    12 Assignment Editor Skills: Definition and Examples. By ResumeCat Editorial Team Updated June 7, 2023. ... An assignment editor needs to have a good understanding of the news process in order to effectively assign stories and make sure they are covered. This includes knowing what goes into each stage of the process and being able to ...

  23. Top 18 Assignment Editor Resume Objective Examples

    Including proofreading in a resume objective shows potential employers that you have the necessary skills to produce clean, polished, and error-free work. 2. Fact-checking. An Assignment Editor often deals with a large amount of information and news stories. Fact-checking is a crucial skill to ensure the accuracy and credibility of these stories.