Aviation Safety Writer

JOB SUMMARY:

The AOPA Air Safety Institute (ASI) is dedicated to advancing general aviation (GA) safety through cutting-edge research, comprehensive analysis, and dynamic educational outreach. As an Aviation Safety Writer, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the voice, quality, and impact of ASI’s content across multiple platforms, including digital and print publications, video scripts, social media, newsletters, and promotional materials. 

Your editorial experience, storytelling ability, and knowledge of general aviation will be instrumental in engaging audiences, supporting AOPA membership growth, and advancing ASI’s mission. 

This role requires strong writing, editing, and project coordination skills. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Content Creation (90%)

Produces original, insightful, and engaging written safety content that provides fresh perspectives on general aviation safety topics. 

Writes engaging, insightful, and compelling Accident Case Study video scripts, requiring strong attention to detail, fact-gathering, and the ability to convert NTSB investigation reports and dockets into meaningful narratives with applications for general aviation pilots. 

Ensures all materials (publications, video scripts, research reports, newsletters, press releases, social media posts, etc.) are well-researched, accurate, aligned with ASI’s mission, and delivered promptly. 

Participates in collaborative brainstorming, including expressing thoughts clearly, using active listening, and checking for understanding. Acknowledges and shows respect for others’ points of view. 

Contributes original ideas that derive insights from personal flying experiences, aeronautical knowledge, industry contacts, familiarity with companies and communities within general aviation, and understanding of major issues affecting the industry. 

Administrative (10%)

Manages the ASI content release calendar and promotion frequency; maintains updated calendars tracking distribution of ASI assets across AOPA and ASI channels. 

Manages a small team of freelance writers who contribute to ASI’s work, ensuring their work aligns with ASI’s standards of excellence. 

Provides clear guidance, feedback, and quality control to maintain the integrity of all editorial outputs. 

**Although this job description aims to capture the majority of the position duties, other duties may be assigned based on business and departmental needs. 

REQUIRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, or a related field OR significant professional experience. 

Proven experience in aviation writing, editing, and managing editorial quality, with a strong portfolio demonstrating leadership in content creation and editorial project coordination. 

Minimum FAA Private Pilot Certificate with an instrument rating. Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI) preferred. 

Ability to lead creative projects and drive content innovation. Strong organizational and project management skills are essential.

Strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills, with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy. 

Demonstrates initiative, punctuality, teamwork, and a positive attitude toward constructive feedback. Self-motivated with a strong commitment to continuous professional development. 

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and comfortable adapting to new tools and technologies as needed. 

PREFERRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience in all facets of journalism/corporate communications functions (including video production/writing, public & media relations, and ghostwriting)

WORKING CONDITIONS:

This position works in an office setting.

Typical working hours are 8:30 am - 5 pm, Monday through Friday, with a one-hour lunch break. Some evening and weekend work may be required.

Generally, a climate-controlled environment with occasional exposure to outdoor weather conditions when attending aviation-related events, including exposure to higher altitudes and confined spaces if in a general aviation aircraft.

Some travel may be required to various general aviation or industry-related events. Travel is by aircraft (general aviation and commercial) and by road or public transit. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands of this position are typical of a standard office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will regularly be required to:

Sit for extended periods while w…