Position SummaryThe writer/editor is a position within the Pew Research Center’s Race & Ethnicity research team. This role is responsible for writing and editing a range of content, from comprehensive research reports to shorter, timely analyses and blog posts, designed to communicate data-driven insights to a broad public audience. This role requires editorial leadership, including providing feedback on analytical structure, tone, and clarity.The ideal candidate will have a strong data journalism mindset, with the ability to translate complex quantitative findings into clear, engaging, and nonpartisan narratives. They will be embedded within the research team and work collaboratively to shape the research agenda, including identifying key research questions; contributing to survey development; and identifying and synthesizing findings into accessible and compelling storylines. They will also evaluate drafts of research reports to determine whether there are shortcomings in the analysis and/or organization; edit, rewrite, and reorganize drafts as necessary to improve flow and clarity; and ensure that the text is accompanied by appropriate charts and tables. In addition, they will provide guidance and training to other researchers in the Race and Ethnicity team and serve as a writing resource. Following the release of major reports, they may help present research to the public through interviews, speeches and briefings, adhering to the Center’s non-partisan, non-advocacy stance while building a personal reputation for impartial analysis and expertise on particular topics.The writer/editor will demonstrate great care in the use and presentation of data, as well as the ability to publish in a timely manner while ensuring the highest level of accuracy. They will have a demonstrated understanding of research on race and ethnicity in the U.S. and good editorial judgment, as well as a clear, engaging writing style. Candidates with more extensive experience or exceptionally strong qualifications may be considered for appointment at the Senior Writer/Editor level. This position reports to the Managing Director of Race & Ethnicity Research.Primary ResponsibilitiesEditing and Writing (90%)Writes and edits long-form research reports, as well as shorter analysis based on surveys, demographic research, and other quantitative sources.For some reports, develops an outline and assumes primary responsibility for writing the document, based on survey data, demographic data, focus group data, or secondary data from reputable sources.. For other reports, draft a chapter, section or sidebar as assigned by the managing director or associate director.Develops ideas for and edits shorter, timely analyses or blog posts based on race and ethnicity research that provide context for news events and emerging issues of public interest.Edits/critiques drafts produced by research staff, improving clarity, flow, and accessibility.Contributes ideas for data visualizations and interactive features that enhance storytelling.Ensures all publications meet the high research, editorial and non-advocacy standards of the Pew Research Center.Related Responsibilities (10%)Manages project timelines, communicating plans with staffers within and outside of the Race and Ethnicity team; ensures project timelines are met.Trains and serves as a writing resource and mentor to researchers, helping them communicate effectively with non-specialist audiences.Partners with the communications, social media, and digital teams to effectively disseminate research (e.g., by reviewing copy-edits, press releases, the team newsletter, social media posts, etc.).Collaborates with research, editorial, and digital teams to conceptualize and develop interactive Web presentations of quantitative data from research projects.Supports the Pew Research Center’s broader digital strategy to grow and engage audiences.Education/Training/ExperienceBachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, social sciences or a related fieldTraining or experience in studying demographic and survey data from a social science framework preferredMinimum of 5 years’ experience in journalism, editorial work or a related field requiredDemonstrated experience as a clear writer who can work with quantitative research, conceptualize a compelling storyline at a high level, and write about it for a broad audienceKnowledge and Skill RequirementsSuperior editing and writing skillsAbility to translate quantitative research findings into non-academic, accessible prose and visualsStrong understanding of statistics and quantitative research methodsBroad knowledge of the field of social and demographic trends on race and ethnicity in the U.S.Excellent editorial judgment and news senseAbility to balance multiple prioritiesAbility to ensure high editorial and research standards while meeting tight deadlinesKnowledge of the AP’s writing styleAbility to work well in a collaborative and team-oriented environmentFLSA Status: ExemptSalary: The starting salary for this position is based on compensation market data and candidate experience. The typical starting salary for this position is $86,700.LocationPew Research Center staff are required to be present in the Center’s Washington, D.C., office on core in-office days on Tuesdays and Wednesdays (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday as of January 2026). Staff may work virtually from remote locations on other days in a typical work week.Application procedureClick on the Apply button, and complete required fields. Both cover letter and resume are required.When requested, please upload a copy of your resume/cv, as well as a copy of your cover letter in the section labeled Resume/Cover Letter. If the documents have successfully uploaded, you should see 2 attached files beneath the “Drop files here” box. Please make sure you have uploaded a resume AND a cover letter before moving on to the next page.Total RewardsIn addition to competitive pay, Pew Research Center’s employees enjoy a robust total rewards package that includes:Affordable, comprehensive health care that includes medical, dental (including adult orthodontia) and vision benefits.Generous paid annual leave plan, including a winter break between Dec. 25 and Jan. 1Employer-paid disability, life insurance and paid family leave plansUp to a 12% employer 401(k) contribution, with vesting at the end of the first year.A 37.5-hour workweek.Health savings or flexible spending account options with employer funding component.Flexibility to telework a portion of each week, with an additional four telework “flex weeks” each year for most staff.EEO:Pew Research Center makes employment decisions without regard to age, sex, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation or gender identity, military/veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. We encourage applications from candidates who represent a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills.
