Administrative and Editorial Assistant, The Contrarian

Democracy Defenders Action, a 501(c)(4) organization

Full time, Non-Exempt, Washington DC

Organizational Overview

The Democracy Defenders family of organizations (a c3, c4, legally separate PAC, and The Contrarian) is a leader in the fight against authoritarianism, working strategically in the courts and court of public opinion to restore American democracy by: upholding the rule of law, safeguarding free and fair elections, and fighting corruption. As a media outlet, The Contrarian covers a wide range of influences on our democracy that extend beyond legal battles.

Role Purpose

The Administrative and Editorial Assistant delivers critical project management and scheduling support to The Contrarian’s Editor-in-Chief, The Contrarian’s Managing Editor, and the Contrarian’s staff overall. This is an excellent opportunity to learn the operations and strategy behind a successful independent digital media organization and to contribute to a mission-driven publication.

To best protect, strengthen, and rebuild our democracy, it is critical that DDA’s staff reflects the diversity of backgrounds and experiences represented in the democracy we seek to defend. Applicants of all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. 

Responsibilities

Support for Managing Editor Julia Payne

• Support Managing Editor in maintaining the scheduling calendar to align meetings and work-blocks with strategic editorial focus and breaking news priorities.
• Prioritize and track incoming requests from staff and external partners (via email, messages, and meetings), triaging urgent requests, and ensuring timely responses.

Support for Editor-in-Chief Jen Rubin 

• Maintain and track the Editor-in-Chief’s list of daily tasks and weekly priorities.
• Attend daily virtual meetings and effectively communicate and track key takeaways and action items.
• Support project execution as directed, including preparing guests, scheduling and running Zoom meetings, uploading to our Substack in coordination with The Contrarian’s digital team, and planning virtual or in person events. 
• Complete other administrative tasks as needed, such as booking travel, submitting expenses, completing timesheets, etc.

Support for The Contrarian staff 

• At the direction of leadership, plan team building events and opportunities as directed. 
• Serve as a trusted thought partner to our Editor in Chief, Managing Editor, and Director of Editorial Content. 
• In partnership with the Director of Editorial Content, act as a liaison with staff at Democracy Defenders Action c4. 

Qualifications

• 1-2 years in an administrative role in an independent publication, public service office, non-profit, advocacy organization, political campaign, or other comparable environment. 
• Experience directly supporting senior executives. 
• Strong time management skills, including the ability to meet deadlines and prioritize tasks appropriately.
• Adept at juggling multiple information streams and changing priorities in a fast-paced and high-stakes media environment.
• Highly organized with vigorous attention to detail.
• Sound judgment and discretion when handling sensitive or confidential information.
• Clear and concise written communication and aptitude for distilling key information from multiple sources.
• Familiarity with civil society groups, think tanks, and elected leaders is preferred.
• Passion for independent journalism. 
• Unwavering commitment to defeating election sabotage and denial, fighting autocracy, and building a resilient democracy; Experience (professional, volunteer, or otherwise) advancing democracy, election integrity, and the rule of law. 
• Commitment to diversity and inclusivity and an ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs. 
• Available for week night and weekend work as needed.  

Role and Compensation Details 

• This role is ideally based in the Washington DC/ DMV area. Candidates who are available for in person tasks and meetings will be given preference, but we are open to this role being remote for the right candidate.
• The Administrative and Editorial Assistant reports to the Managing Editor and works closely with the Editor-in-Chief and other Senior Editorial leadership. 
• This role exclusively supports The Contrarian. 
• The salary range for this position is $55,000 - $80,000, commensurate with experience. 
• DDA provides a comprehensive benefits package including 20+ days of PTO, 12 holidays, health insurance (100% paid for employee and 50% paid for family), 401K with match, tech and home office stipends, coworking space access, and recurring teambuilding opportunities. 

If you are unsure about applying, we encourage you to make a case as to why you are a compelling candidate. A human reviews all application materials, and we are eager to hear from candidates who may not meet all of the qualifications, who possess transferable skills, and who have non-traditional work histories.

Democracy Defenders Action is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.