Deputy Editor, Popular Mechanics

Deputy Editor, Popular Mechanics

Overview (Why This Role?)
Are you driven by curiosity and obsessed with science, tech, and innovation? Popular Mechanics is looking for a sharp, creative Deputy Editor to lead our short-form content operation—transforming niche discoveries into viral stories that spark wonder and reach millions. This role is your opportunity to shape the voice of one of America’s most iconic enthusiast brands in the fast-paced world of digital publishing.

About Hearst Magazines (Why Us?)
Hearst Magazines’ portfolio of more than 30 iconic brands in the U.S.—including Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Esquire, Good Housekeeping, Harper’s BAZAAR, and Popular Mechanics — inspires, entertains, and builds new and bold experiences for an engaged and growing audience across digital, video, social and print, reaching nearly 130 million readers and site visitors each month. With sophisticated content creation, cutting-edge technology, and industry-leading data capabilities, we make media and products that move people across all platforms. We are a global media company that publishes nearly 200 magazine editions and 175 websites around the world—and together, we are shaping what’s next.

Key Responsibilities (What You’re Doing)

• Oversee the full lifecycle—assigning, editing, publishing, and optimizing—of 7–10 daily short-form stories aligned with Popular Mechanics’ mission and standards.
• Lead and manage a team of staff editors, ensuring editorial workflows are clear, consistent, and aligned with broader brand strategy.
• Monitor a wide variety of sources—from academic journals to TikTok trends—to identify unique, surprising story opportunities.
• Turn complex or obscure ideas into accessible, engaging content that resonates with a broad audience.
• Build and refine scalable editorial systems that support experimentation and consistency in content quality.
• Leverage analytics and audience insights to shape coverage, anticipate reader interests, and drive engagement.
• Occasionally appear on-camera to promote high-value stories and extend their reach across platforms.

Qualifications (What We’re Looking For)

• Deep enthusiasm for science, technology, and innovation, with fluency in topics like AI, space, energy, engineering, defense, archaeology, and beyond.
• 7+ years of experience in digital editorial leadership, including managing teams and newsroom operations.
• Proven success developing and executing audience-first content strategies that drive growth and engagement.
• Strong editorial judgment with a knack for finding “unsearchable,” curiosity-fueled stories.
• Exceptional headline writing skills, particularly for platforms like Apple News and Google Discover.
• Data-literate, with a firm grasp of analytics tools and the ability to translate insights into editorial actions.
• Highly organized with strong leadership skills and experience managing editorial budgets and freelance networks.
• Comfortable with video and multimedia storytelling, including occasional on-camera appearances.
• Collaborative, creative, and passionate about experimentation.
• Hybrid role based in Easton, PA; requires 3 days a week in-office.

Benefits (What We Offer)

• Work with the Best : Collaborate with top-tier professionals across media, advertising, tech, fashion, lifestyle, and publishing, shaping the future of these dynamic industries.
• Grow Your Skills : Unlock your potential with access to innovative training programs, immersive workshops, and exclusive industry events.
• Work-Life Harmony : Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid work, empowering you to balance professional success with personal priorities.
• Foster Connection & Belonging : Join our Employee Resource Groups and help create a welcoming workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered.
• Wellness First : Prioritize your well-being with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance from Day 1.
• Plan for Your Financial Future : Enjoy competitive financial perks, including a 401(k) plan with a generous company match.

The base salary for this role is between $77,190 - $92,000 . The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as: transferable skills, work experience, business needs and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

Hearst is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.