Editor for Celebrating Chemistry

The Education & Career Development Division of the American Chemical Society builds programs and provides resources and professional development for all education settings. The Office of Science Outreach supports ACS members and volunteers who share chemistry with their communities. The types of programs offered include interactive activity resources, the Celebrating Chemistry magazine, science outreach training, outreach campaigns, grants, volunteer recognition, and a high school chemistry competition. The office works both domestically and internationally.

The Office of Science Outreach is seeking a Program Specialist to serve as Editor for Celebrating Chemistry, a children’s magazine designed to engage youth ages 9–12. The Editor is responsible for overseeing the development, editing, and publication of magazine content. The position will liaise with ACS members to determine the theme for each magazine edition and collect theme-related articles and interactive activities. The Program Specialist advises contractors (e.g., illustrator, designer) to develop and review the magazine creative. Minimal travel will be expected for this position (less than 10%).

Position Accountabilities

1. Serve as Editor of Celebrating Chemistry.


2. Work with ACS Governance to produce two Celebrating Chemistry editions annually.


3. Maintain and manage Celebrating Chemistry resources, including online inventory and the Celebrating Chemistry website.


4. Serve as Staff Liaison to the Program Development and Promotion Subcommittee of the ACS Committee on Community Activities.


5. Collaborate with internal ACS partners (e.g., marketing, purchasing, contracts).


6. Contribute to other Education & Career Development initiatives as needed.

Education/Experience/Technological Knowledge

Bachelor’s degree in science communication or related field with experience in formal or informal science communication. Strong written and verbal communication skills for interacting with volunteers and the general public. Outstanding interpersonal skills with superior customer service.

This role is based in our Washington, DC office. A reasonable rate of compensation for this position is $65,000-$75,000 per year. ACS employees work a hybrid schedule, consisting of working onsite two days per work week, as decided by functional area. The balance of the week is open to working remotely, though employees are always welcome onsite each day if they choose.

ACS currently provides the following benefits for this position: paid vacation leave, paid sick leave, paid holidays, health insurance, flexible spending account or health care savings account, dental insurance, life insurance, vision insurance, retirement benefits, short- and long-term disability, and 4-week work from anywhere; each benefit is subject to the terms of the applicable program. Additional benefits may apply based on skills, experience, and location.    

Any actual offer of employment, reflecting the total compensation package and benefits, will be made in the sole discretion of ACS. ACS reserves the right to amend or modify its employment benefits and compensation structure at any time.