Be an Editorial Fellow at Sierra Magazine

Sierra is a national print and digital magazine that publishes award-winning journalism and cutting-edge photography, art, and video dedicated to protecting the natural world. The Sierra editorial fellowship offers early career journalists real experience in the day-to-day world of magazine publishing. Fellows get an overview of the process of selecting and preparing manuscripts for publication and gain valuable insight into the workings of a nationally circulated magazine. This is a paid fellowship program with an emphasis on writing and reporting, fact-checking, research, and story cultivation.

WHAT DO EDITORIAL FELLOWS DO?

• Write weekly articles and dispatches for the magazine’s online edition.

• Write short articles and news dispatches for the magazine’s print edition.

• Fact-check articles for the magazine.

• Carry out short- and long-term research or writing projects as needed.

• Attend weekly editorial meetings.

• Participate in writing workshops to improve their craft.

• Cultivate and expand social media reach and maintain strategies for building new audiences.

• Miscellaneous editorial office duties, as needed. (We promise you won't be fetching anyone coffee drinks.)

WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED?

• Strong writing, research, and editing skills.

• Awareness of and interest in environmental issues.

• Ability to multitask and work under deadlines.

• Familiarity with Sierra print / online content and tone.

• Self-starter who can take the lead on story ideas, assignments, and research.

• Published clips and/or experience working at publication (campus or general circulation) a plus.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

Fellowship periods are 6 months. Fellows are required to work 28 hours a week.

HOW CAN I APPLY?

We will begin accepting applications for the Winter 2025 cohort on December 4. Check back then for the link to apply.

FELLOWSHIP DETAILS:

How long do fellowships last?

Six months. We have two sessions each year: winter/spring (January through June, summer/fall (July through December).

Are the start and end dates flexible?

The dates are somewhat flexible, but preference will be given to qualified candidates who can begin work on the designated start date and continue to the end of the  session. 

Can I volunteer for the magazine for a shorter period?

Unfortunately, no. With our small staff, we are unable to train and incorporate short-term or time-limited volunteers into our research and fact-checking process. If you are interested in pursuing volunteer opportunities with the Sierra Club, we suggest that you contact your local chapter or group.

Is the fellowship paid?

Yes. 

Is your office accessible by public transportation?

Our office is located in uptown Oakland, near Lake Merritt, near the 19th street Bart station.

Does the Sierra Club provide housing for fellows from out of state?

We are not able to provide housing for fellows.

ELIGIBILITY AND INTERVIEWING: 

What kind of writing sample should I submit?

The most helpful samples show your ability to research facts, organize information, and interview a variety of sources, in a lively and engaging fashion. A piece of journalism (written either for publication or a class) is much preferred over a research paper or personal essay. Please submit at least one sample with your application.

Do you only hire college students or recent graduates?

Anyone with a strong science and/or journalism background and an interest in learning about magazine publication is welcome to apply. 

Do you offer internships for high school students?

No.