Youth Summer Job: Publishing & Editorial Assistant

Briarpatch Magazine is seeking a Publishing & Editorial Assistant to work in Regina, SK, for eight weeks from May 1st to June 26th, 2019 (dates somewhat flexible). The position is for 30 hours a week, at a rate of $15 per hour. The ideal candidate is passionate about independent media and wants to work for a grassroots organization where progressive politics are at the heart of the work.

Candidates must be between the ages of 15 and 30, and do not need to be students (this is a change from previous years). Due to the nationalistic nature of the funder (Government of Canada), candidates must be either Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or refugees with protection conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. Applicants must be based in Regina.

The successful candidate will:

• Work with the Publisher to expand the magazine’s subscriber and sustainer base;
• Work with the Editor on the production of the magazine, which may include a combination of writing and editing articles and blogs, working with artists, fact-checking and copy-editing articles, and laying out the magazine, depending on the skills and interest of the candidate;
• Assist with outreach for our annual Writing In The Margins contest, and for our Northern Writing Prize;
• Manage social media (Twitter and Facebook) and sending newsletters to subscribers;
• And assist the publisher in managing Briarpatch’s subscription circulation system.

You’ll come away with a deep understanding of independent magazine production, including editorial, as well as small business management. You’ll deepen and nuance your understanding of local and international politics and social movements. This is a great opportunity for an ambitious young person to work in a friendly environment with close and meaningful mentorship, and to contribute to crucial projects that will significantly improve Briarpatch’s reach and impact.

Though no candidate is expected to have all of the following, ideally you:

• Have a strong understanding of the landscape of progressive politics and media in Canada (including the labour movement, decolonization, non-profits, and activism);
• Have exceptional written and oral communication skills;
• Are familiar with research and interview techniques;
• Are organized and attentive to deadlines and detail;
• Have an eye for design and art, and experience with or a willingness to learn InDesign, and Photoshop;
• Are digital savvy, with experience in or a willingness to learn to use MailChimp and social media management.

A desire and ability to pick up new skills is equally important as any of the above qualifications.

Briarpatch particularly encourages applicants who are Indigenous, Black, or people of colour; low-income; women; LGBTQ+; disabled. If you would like, please indicate if you are a part of an equity-seeking group in your cover letter.

Please email the following, addressed to Saima Desai and David Gray-Donald, to [email protected] no later than April 22nd, 2019:

• A resumé;
• A cover letter describing your interest in politics and media, and what your unique contribution to Briarpatch would be.

We aim to contact shortlisted applicants by April 24, 2019. Work will begin on or around May 1st, depending on the applicant’s availability.