About Spotlight

Spotlight is an award-winning media company and the creative force behind some of the region’s most engaging community, lifestyle, and business publications—including Fargo Monthly, Design & Living, and Spotlight Media’s suite of specialized magazines. We tell stories that inspire, inform, and connect our readers to the people, ideas, and places that shape life in our region.

The Role

We're looking for a curious, self-motivated Research Assistant to support our editorial team in developing high-quality feature articles and profile pieces. This is a behind-the-scenes role that helps fuel the storytelling process by gathering background information, identifying key themes, and finding supporting content that adds depth and accuracy to our articles.

Responsibilities

• Assist editors and writers by conducting research on people, places, and topics relevant to upcoming articles

• Help locate and verify facts, historical context, and data for profiles, feature stories, and thematic issues

• Track down quotes, press coverage, and public records when needed

• Compile short research briefs and content outlines to support writers

• Organize findings in Google Docs and spreadsheets for easy reference

• Stay up to date on regional news, business developments, and community happenings

Qualifications

• Excellent research, reading comprehension, and summarization skills

• Good phone skills

• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy

• Interest in journalism, storytelling, or editorial work

• Familiarity with Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive)

• Able to work independently, meet deadlines, and manage multiple small tasks

• Previous experience in editorial, journalism, or academic research is a plus, but not required

Who You Are

• Naturally curious—you love digging into a topic and connecting the dots

• Resourceful—you know how to use Google and AI like a pro and dig past the surface

• Organized—you can manage your time and keep research tidy

• A team player—you enjoy supporting creative work and playing a key backstage role

To Apply

Send a brief cover letter, and résumé. Tell us why you're interested and what makes you a great fit for this kind of work.