Advance Your Career: Writer-Editor at the National Defense University
The National Defense University (NDU) serves as the pinnacle of Joint Professional Military Education. We are currently looking for a talented and meticulous Writer-Editor (Printed Media) to join the Institute for National Strategic Studies (INSS). This is a rare opportunity to play a critical role in disseminating national security research and policy that informs decision-makers at the highest levels.
Job Responsibilities
As a Writer-Editor, you will wear many hats. Your primary duties include:
- Editorial Excellence: Copy-editing complex manuscripts for grammar, syntax, and persuasive argument.
- Author Collaboration: Working with senior military officers and academics to refine their work while maintaining their voice.
- Project Oversight: Managing the end-to-end production process, including layout, design, and coordination with printing contractors.
- Technical Leadership: Writing specifications and monitoring performance to ensure NDU publications meet high-quality standards.
Requirements
To be eligible, you must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level. This includes deep, hands-on experience with:
- Printed media production.
- Manuscript preparation and editorial refinement.
- Typography, design, and the technical aspects of the printing process.
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position is structured as follows:
| Pay Scale | Minimum Salary | Maximum Salary | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-12 | $102,415 | $133,142 | Per Year |
Benefits
Working for NDU offers a robust federal benefits package:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Retirement plans including TSP (Thrift Savings Plan).
- Generous leave policies.
- Flexible scheduling and telework opportunities.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Keep your resume to two pages and ensure it clearly reflects your editing and design experience.
- The Assessment: Be prepared for the USA Hire assessment, which tests critical competencies in language, editing, and defense knowledge.
- Deadlines: All supporting documentation (SF-50, etc.) must be in your account before the November 20, 2026, closing date.
If you are a seasoned editor with a passion for national security and an expert grasp of the publication process, this role at the National Defense University is your next great career move. Apply today to help shape the intellectual future of our Joint Force.
Why This Writer Editor (Printed Media) Job Matters
Shape the future of national security discourse as a Writer-Editor at the prestigious National Defense University.
Writer Editor (Printed Media) Job Overview
The Institute for National Strategic Studies (INSS) at the National Defense University is seeking a skilled Writer-Editor to join its publishing team. This role is pivotal in maintaining the high scholarly standards of NDU Press, which produces the Joint Force Quarterly, monographs, and various strategic publications. You will collaborate with elite military officers, academics, and government officials to refine complex defense policy and national security content, ensuring it reaches the highest levels of clarity, influence, and impact.
Requirements for Writer Editor (Printed Media)
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
- Proven expertise in printed media publishing, including manuscript preparation, design, and typography.
- Comprehensive understanding of the printing process from concept to distribution.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.
- United States Citizenship.
Preferred Qualifications for Writer Editor (Printed Media)
- Extensive experience in copy editing for syntax, grammar, and scholarly style.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex publication projects and coordinate with contractors.
- Strong interpersonal skills to provide constructive, tactful feedback to high-level subject matter experts.
- Knowledge of defense, military, or strategic affairs.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Comprehensive health, life, and long-term care insurance.
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Flexible work schedules and situational telework options.
- ✓Transit subsidies for commuting.
💡 How to Apply Writer Editor (Printed Media) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Writer Editor (Printed Media) Job
- Create a profile on USAJOBS and ensure your resume is uploaded (2-page maximum).
- Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
- Complete the required assessment questionnaire, which takes approximately 15 minutes.
- If prompted, complete the USA Hire assessment as directed via the provided unique link.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, such as SF-50s or DD-214s, if applicable.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must explicitly highlight your experience in printed media and editorial processes.
- Double-check that all required documents, especially veteran preference proof or SF-50s, are uploaded before the deadline.
- Set aside at least 3 hours for the USA Hire assessment; you can save progress if needed.
- Review your application status in the USAJOBS dashboard periodically for updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telework allowed for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for situational telework.
What is the security clearance requirement?
This position requires a Secret security clearance.
Can I substitute education for experience?
No, education cannot be substituted for the specialized experience requirement at this grade level.
What is the security clearance for this role?
*A: This is a Secret-level clearance position.*
Does NDU support professional growth?
*A: Yes, as an academic environment, NDU provides a collaborative space that values scholarly development.*
Job from National Defense University
NDU is the premier institution under the direction of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Our mission is to develop leaders who can operate effectively in an unpredictable global landscape. The INSS and NDU Press are the intellectual heart of the university, producing monographs, books, and the widely respected Joint Force Quarterly.