Senior Editor, ASI

About the role

The Senior Editor plays a critical role in advancing the Air Safety Institute’s (ASI) mission to improve general aviation (GA) safety through research, analysis, education, and outreach. The position provides editorial leadership and expertise across a diverse portfolio of content, including digital and print publications, video scripts, social media, newsletters, and promotional materials. The Senior Editor shapes the voice, quality, and impact of ASI content by applying exceptional writing, editing, storytelling, and project management skills. The role leverages a strong understanding of general aviation to develop clear, accurate, engaging, and accessible content that resonates with current and future pilots, strengthens audience engagement, and supports AOPA membership growth.

Responsibilities

• Content Leadership & Content Creation (60%)
  • Produces original, insightful, and engaging written safety content that provides fresh perspectives on general aviation safety topics.
  • Ensures all materials (publications, video scripts, research reports, newsletters, press releases, social media posts, etc.) are well-researched, accurate, aligned with ASI’s mission, and delivered promptly.
  • Provides editorial support for AOPA leadership through collaboration with the AOPA media relations/corporate communications function to inform public opinion about general aviation safety topics.
  • Writes monthly safety articles for AOPA PILOT and Flight Training magazines.
  • Contributes original ideas derived from personal flying experiences, aeronautical knowledge, industry contacts, and understanding of major issues affecting the industry.
  • Exercises news judgment to evaluate potential stories and determine the appropriate focus.
• Administrative (20%)
  • Manages the ASI content release calendar and promotion frequency; maintains updated calendars tracking distribution of ASI assets across AOPA and ASI channels.
• Strategic Planning & Project Management (10%)
  • Collaborates with cross-functional teams to innovate and execute new content strategies that inspire AOPA membership growth and revenue.
  • Participates in shaping ASI’s editorial direction and outreach initiatives.
• Freelance Management/Mentorship & Development (5%)
  • Leads the recruitment, onboarding, and management of freelance writers, ensuring their work aligns with ASI’s standards of excellence.
  • Provides clear guidance, feedback, and quality control to maintain the integrity of all editorial outputs.
  • Offers coaching and professional development to colleagues within the ASI team.
• Representation (5%)
  • Serves as a key representative of ASI within AOPA and externally, contributing to cross-departmental initiatives and ensuring editorial goals are met.
  • Occasionally serves as a spokesperson for AOPA at external events, conferences, forums, and conventions.

Other duties may be assigned based on business and departmental needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, or a related field OR significant professional experience.
• 5-10 years of experience in aviation writing, editing, and managing editorial quality, with a strong portfolio demonstrating leadership in content creation and editorial project coordination.
• Minimum FAA Private Pilot Certificate with an instrument rating.
• Proven ability to lead creative projects, mentor teams, and drive content innovation.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills, with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy.
• Demonstrates initiative, punctuality, teamwork, and a positive attitude toward constructive feedback.
• Self-motivated with a strong commitment to continuous professional development.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and comfortable adapting to new tools and technologies.

Preferred Qualifications

• FAA Commercial Pilot / Certificated Flight Instructor.
• Master’s degree in Journalism or related field.
• Experience in all facets of journalism/corporate communications functions (including video production/writing, public & media relations, and ghostwriting).

Working Conditions

• Office setting in Frederick, MD.
• Typical working hours are 8:30 am - 5 pm, Monday through Friday, with a one-hour lunch break. Some evening and weekend work may be required.
• Climate-controlled environment with occasional exposure to outdoor weather conditions when attending aviation-related events, including exposure to higher altitudes and confined spaces if in a general aviation aircraft.
• Some travel (5 - 10%) may be required to various general aviation or industry-related events. Travel is by aircraft (general aviation and commercial) and by road or public transit.

Physical Demands

• Typical office environment demands, including:
• Sitting for extended periods while working at a computer or attending meetings.
• Using hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment.
• Communicating effectively via email, phone, and in-person, requiring clear speech, hearing, and vision.
• Occasionally lifting or moving items weighing up to 15 pounds.
• Occasionally standing, walking, and reaching with hands and arms during normal office activities.

Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Pay

$78,000 - $88,000, depending on education and experience.

Benefits

• Flight Training (earn your Private Pilot License for free) & Annual Flight Proficiency Program.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance available for employees and their dependents starting the 1st of the month following their start date.
• Flexible Spending Plans.
• Health Savings Plan with employer contribution (for eligible participants).
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with a company match and annual discretionary supplemental employer contribution.
• Company-paid Short and Long-term Disability Insurance.
• Company-paid Life Insurance and AD&D insurance with the option to buy up.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): 17 days accrued during the first year (accruals increase based on tenure).
• Paid Holidays: 12 holidays.
• Personal days: 3 (prorated based on hire date).
• Volunteer day: 1 (prorated based on hire date).