Director of Audio Visual

Audio & Video Director
Employer: The Lever
Location: Remote
Job status: Full-time
Salary Range: $100,000-$135,000
About The Lever:
The Lever is a subscriber-supported investigative news outlet dedicated to following the money and holding the powerful accountable. Founded in 2020 by journalist David Sirota and a team of reporters, The Lever has attracted a devoted following through in-depth investigations and uncompromising analyses of local and national politics, business corruption, Big Tech, and more. We are at an inflection point in both politics and media, and we are looking for a creative leader to help us reach and engage people where they increasingly get their news: YouTube, podcasts, and short-form video.
The Position:
The Lever is looking for a builder who wants to own — and reimagine — everything we do in audio and video. That includes our flagship video podcasts, longer narrative projects, subscriber-only content, and whatever you invent next. You'll set the strategy, run the slate, and be accountable for growth in viewers and listeners. You’re just as obsessed with the political news cycle as you are with news-media consumption trends. You don’t wait for direction — you’re an enterprising, entrepreneurial leader who loves to pitch ideas, experiment, learn quickly, and adjust.
You’re comfortable owning the entire production cycle from end to end: conceiving new show and story ideas; managing producers and contractors; coaching journalists; and working closely with our editorial, audience, and marketing departments to polish and amplify the results. You know that the thumbnail, title, and cold open aren’t an afterthought; they’re how our journalism actually reaches audiences. You’ll manage tight timelines and keep production moving forward, with editorial review and final approval of all content, jumping in to help with editing as needed. This is a full-time, salaried, and remote manager-level position with benefits including a generous health care stipend, dental and vision insurance, office expense reimbursements, and paid time off.
Qualifications:
Six-plus years producing or leading news or politics audio and video, including at least three years managing people and productions.
A track record of scaling one or more YouTube channels, video podcasts, or shows.
A deep, up-to-the-minute understanding of YouTube: the algorithm, YouTube Studio analytics, packaging, Shorts, and live. You’re also savvy with podcasts, TikTok, and Reels.
A killer news instinct for the stories, guests, and angles that will break through and grow an audience, without compromising The Lever’s editorial standards.
Skilled in coaching on-air talent and helping journalists create compelling video content.
Deep experience using data — but not in a way that you’re exclusively driven by it. You use analytics to make better journalism that reaches more people, not clickbait that erodes the discourse.
Robust writing, editing, and packaging skills
Proficiency in media editing software and platforms, including Riverside, Descript, and the Adobe CC suite.
The drive and poise to lead a team in a constantly shifting news cycle, with the ability to zoom out to see the bigger picture and zoom in to handle the messy details.
Commitment to The Lever’s subscriber-funded model and approach to accountability journalism.
The passion, imagination, and ambition needed to build a transformative news organization.
How To Apply
To apply, send the following information to jobs@levernews.com:
Resume, references, and salary requirements
Three work samples
A cover letter explaining why you are the right candidate for the job

The Lever is an equal opportunity employer​ that is committed to a diverse workplace. People of color, people with disabilities, women, and LGBTQ+ candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. If they choose to do so, applicants may disclose their demographic information as part of their application. Equal access to programs, services, and employment is available to all qualified persons.

Work arrangement
Yes