Seeking Editorial Volunteers for Fall 2015

Though it feels like summer has just begun, August is just around the corner, which means it will soon be time to bid a fond farewell to our wonderful summer volunteers, Katie Barasch and Emma Adler.

Electric Literature’s volunteer positions introduce undergraduate and graduate students, and emerging writers to digital publishing and the New York literary scene. Because we are a small, not-for-profit publisher, we provide unique opportunities for professional development and resume-building.

As an Electric Literature volunteer, you are encouraged to become involved in any aspect of our work that interests you. Sure, you’ll go to the post-office, but you’ll also do things like contribute to editorial decisions, interview authors, write articles, and attend literary events.

Responsibilities:

• Read submissions and participate in editorial discussions
• Comb the web and social media for breaking literary news
• Copy edit and proof read
• Contribute content to electricliterature.com
• Interview Recommended Reading authors
• Staff events
• Select images to pair with articles
• Update contact databases
• Assist in eBook production

Skills:

• Knowledge of WordPress, Tumblr, and social media platforms
• Familiarity with HTML
• Basic understanding of Photoshop and inDesign
• Firm grasp of grammar and spelling, with a sharp attention to detail

The ideal candidate:

• Has an educational background in literature or creative writing
• Participates in the contemporary literary scene
• Regularly reads literary magazines and literary websites (including but not limited to Recommended Reading. Okey-Panky, and electricliterature.com)
• Believes strongly in the Electric Literature mission: To amplify the power of storytelling with digital innovation
• Is hard working, pays great attention to detail, and can work independently
• Writes clearly and with personality
• Has an eye for design and knows what images will grab reader’s attention

This is an unpaid, part time volunteer position (10–20 hours/week), with opportunities for hire. Candidates must be able to come to our office in the Flatiron district of Manhattan at least 2 days/week. We are happy to work with universities and MFA programs to provide course credit, though you do not need to be a student to apply. This 4 month position runs from September 1 though December 18 (exact dates are flexible). To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to editors@electricliterature.com by August 14, 2015.

Note: this post has been updated to clarify that the positions are volunteer positions. Electric Literature is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit.