Career Opportunities at OutSmart

Be part of the next chapter of Houston’s award-winning LGBTQ magazine! As OutSmart evolves to meet the needs of a changing media landscape, we’re building a team of talented, passionate professionals to help us grow in new and exciting directions.

For over 30 years, OutSmart has been a trusted voice in the LGBTQ community, and now we’re embracing a more flexible, contract-based approach to expand our reach and amplify the stories that matter most. This new model allows us to work with diverse talent who bring fresh perspectives and specialized skills to our mission.

We offer a creative, inclusive, and discrimination-free environment where your contributions can make a real impact. If you’re looking for flexible opportunities to create, collaborate, and be part of a legacy publication with a forward-thinking vision, we’d love to hear from you!

Business Development Manager

(Hybrid Media & Nonprofit)

OutSmart is more than just a media company—we’re part of the fabric of our community. We tell stories that matter, connect people through shared experiences, and support businesses that make our neighborhoods thrive. Our hybrid model includes a nonprofit newsroom supported by the OutSmart Foundation and a for-profit media company, giving us a unique way to make an impact while staying sustainable.

We’re looking for a Business Development Manager who’s as passionate about the community as we are. This is a hands-on role where you’ll help us grow through fundraising, sales, and partnerships. As we expand, you’ll have the opportunity to build and lead a team that helps OutSmart reach new heights.

What You’ll Do:

Fundraising for the OutSmart Foundation: Build strong relationships with donors, local businesses, and foundations who believe in the power of community journalism. Write grants, plan events, and track fundraising goals.
Sales Leadership for the For-Profit Media Company: Create advertising and sponsorship opportunities, develop creative packages, and grow revenue through authentic partnerships.
Laying the Groundwork for Growth: Serve as a key connector between our nonprofit and for-profit sides, create systems for growth, and inspire collaboration across the organization.

What We’re Looking For:

We’re not hung up on degrees—we care more about what you bring to the table. Here’s what we’re hoping to find:

Experience in nonprofit fundraising, sales, or sponsorship development.
A knack for building relationships and connecting with people from all walks of life.
Creativity, persistence, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
Familiarity with tools like Salesforce, HubSpot, or other CRMs (or a willingness to learn).

What We Offer:

Compensation: $50,000–$65,000 annually, plus performance-based incentives.
Growth potential: As we grow, so will you. This role comes with the opportunity to lead and build a team.
A chance to make a real difference in your community.

To apply for this position: Submit a cover letter and resume to: [email protected]. Attn: Greg Jeu/Publisher.

Advertising and Marketing Executive

Are you a creative, self-motivated professional who thrives on helping businesses succeed and driving results? OutSmart Magazine is looking for an Advertising and Marketing Executive to lead the charge in developing innovative advertising solutions across print, online, and digital platforms.

In this role, you’ll work directly with businesses to create meaningful partnerships that support their goals while contributing to the growth of OutSmart’s revenue and mission. You’ll play a vital role in connecting with the LGBTQ community and helping us deliver the high-quality media experience our readers and advertisers value.

What You’ll Do:

Build New Relationships: Identify, connect with, and secure new advertising clients through lead generation, cold calling, email outreach, and networking.
Grow Existing Accounts: Develop creative advertising strategies that help clients succeed while increasing their investment in OutSmart.
Achieve Revenue Goals: Drive measurable revenue growth by building strong client relationships and delivering successful advertising campaigns.
Collaborate & Present: Deliver engaging presentations to clients, groups, and agencies, showcasing how OutSmart’s advertising platforms can meet their needs.
Cross-Sell Opportunities: Introduce clients to related products and services that amplify their campaigns.
Communicate Regularly: Keep management and the business development team updated on your sales pipeline and results, reporting progress weekly, monthly, and quarterly.

What You’ll Bring to the Table:

Experience:

1-2 years of outside sales or business-to-business marketing experience (advertising or media preferred).
A proven track record of securing new clients and growing existing accounts while meeting or exceeding revenue goals.

Skills & Qualifications:

Exceptional Communication: Ability to connect with a wide range of clients and audiences through clear and engaging presentations.
Creative Problem-Solving: A knack for developing tailored advertising solutions that address client needs and goals.
Tech-Savvy: Comfortable using CRM tools, email marketing platforms, and presentation software to enhance your workflow.
Goal-Oriented: Competitive and driven by results, with a focus on achieving and exceeding revenue targets.
Community Minded: A passion for supporting the LGBTQ community and OutSmart’s mission to connect people through meaningful storytelling and impactful advertising.

Why This Role Matters:

This isn’t just another sales job—it’s a chance to build partnerships that make a real difference. By helping businesses succeed, you’ll also play a key role in increasing OutSmart’s revenue and strengthening our ability to serve the LGBTQ community.

What We Offer:

Compensation: $45,000–$55,000 annually, plus performance-based incentives tied to your success in growing revenue.
The opportunity to work with a supportive, mission-driven team dedicated to creating a positive impact.
A chance to grow professionally while contributing to the success of businesses and the community we serve.

How to Apply:

If you’re ready to bring your energy, creativity, and sales expertise to OutSmart, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit a cover letter and resume to [email protected] with the subject line: Attn: Greg Jeu/Publisher.

Nonprofit Development Specialist

Organization: OutSmart Foundation for LGBTQ News and Media

Are you passionate about supporting LGBTQ voices and independent journalism? The OutSmart Foundation for LGBTQ News and Media is looking for a Nonprofit Development Specialist with experience in fundraising and grant writing to help us drive our mission forward. This contract role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while growing your career in nonprofit development.

About Us

The OutSmart Foundation is the philanthropic arm of OutSmart Media, supporting journalism that amplifies LGBTQ voices, celebrates achievements, and highlights underrepresented stories in our community. Through fundraising, grants, and donor engagement, we sustain a legacy of trusted storytelling and empower change.

What You’ll Do

In this role, you’ll take ownership of key development activities, including:

Fundraising Strategy: Supporting the development and execution of fundraising campaigns to engage donors and drive contributions.
Grant Writing: Writing persuasive grant proposals and fundraising materials that communicate our mission and impact.
Donor Relations: Building and maintaining relationships with donors, foundations, and stakeholders, ensuring they feel connected to our work.
Research & Opportunities: Using tools like GrantStation or Instrumentl to identify new funding opportunities and track potential grants.
Collaborative Promotion: Working with the team to highlight the Foundation’s work through newsletters, outreach, and other communications.

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a motivated individual with a solid foundation in nonprofit development. Ideal qualifications include:

Experience: At least 1–2 years in nonprofit fundraising, grant writing, or donor engagement (internships or contract roles count).
Writing Skills: Strong writing abilities, with a talent for crafting clear and compelling grant proposals or fundraising materials.
Relationship Building: Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to connect with donors, partners, and community stakeholders.
Tech Skills: Familiarity with donor management tools (e.g., Salesforce, Bloomerang) and funding research platforms (e.g., GrantStation, Instrumentl) is a plus.
Passion: A strong interest in LGBTQ advocacy, independent journalism, or community-driven initiatives.

Why Join Us?

Impactful Work: Your efforts will directly sustain trusted journalism, amplify LGBTQ voices, and ensure that vital stories are told and preserved.
Career Growth: Gain hands-on experience, build professional connections, and grow your expertise in nonprofit development with opportunities to expand into leadership roles.
Collaborative Team: Work alongside experienced nonprofit leaders, media professionals, and community advocates in a mission-driven environment.
Flexible Environment: Enjoy a remote-friendly role that allows for creativity and collaboration.
Resources for Success: Access tools like GrantStation and Instrumentl, as well as mentorship to refine your skills and achieve your goals.
Community Engagement: Participate in community events, outreach efforts, and celebrations that connect you directly with the people your work supports.

Details:

Type: Contract role, with potential for full-time employment as we grow.
Location: Remote-friendly.
Compensation: Commensurate with experience.

How to Apply:

If you’re ready to contribute your skills and make an impact, please send your resume, a cover letter detailing your experience, and two writing samples (grant proposals, fundraising materials, or similar) to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

OutSmart Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from LGBTQ individuals, people of color, and members of underrepresented communities.

Managing Editor

Are you a creative and detail-oriented editorial professional with a passion for storytelling and leadership? OutSmart Magazine is looking for a Managing Editor to oversee content strategies and ensure a seamless content creation process across print, web, and social platforms.

In this key leadership role, you’ll guide a talented team of writers and freelancers, curate compelling stories, and help OutSmart continue delivering trusted, high-quality journalism to the LGBTQ community. If you love crafting engaging content, collaborating with creative minds, and making an impact, this is the opportunity for you!

What You’ll Do:

Content Leadership:

Oversee every stage of the content creation process, from ideation to editing to publishing.
Plan, assign, and edit stories for both print and online platforms, ensuring all content meets OutSmart’s tone and style guidelines.
Curate and execute content strategies that align with our monthly editorial calendar and organizational goals.
Write a monthly editor’s note and contribute to breaking news coverage as needed.

Team Management:

Lead and manage a team of freelancers, contributors, and other creatives, ensuring deadlines are consistently met.
Provide feedback and guidance to writers, helping them develop their skills and produce outstanding work.
Build and nurture relationships with diverse voices and perspectives in the community.

Digital Content and Strategy:

Oversee the production of web and social media content, ensuring it’s timely, engaging, and aligned with our audience’s interests.
Use analytics tools to monitor digital performance and optimize content strategies.
Collaborate with the creative team to track production progress and maintain a seamless workflow.

What You Bring to the Table:

Experience & Skills:

3-5 years of experience in journalism, communications, public relations, or marketing.
A strong foundation in content creation, editing, and publishing, with leadership or management experience preferred.
Proficiency in Chicago Style formatting and familiarity with GLAAD’s media guidelines.
Experience working with Adobe Creative Suite and WordPress is highly desirable.

Soft Skills:

Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
A talent for building relationships with a diverse community, including local leaders, law enforcement, and politicians.
Sharp news instincts and the ability to find compelling story ideas through social media and other platforms.
An eye for detail and a drive for maintaining the highest editorial standards.

Preferred Skills:

Familiarity with digital analytics tools to track and improve content performance.
Experience with digital content management systems and publishing workflows.

What We Offer:

Salary: Commensurate with experience.
Benefits: Major medical health insurance, dental and vision care, and paid time off.
Work-Life Balance: A flexible schedule in a creative and supportive environment.

OutSmart Magazine has been a trusted voice in the LGBTQ community for decades, and as Managing Editor, you’ll play a crucial role in shaping the stories we tell. This is your opportunity to lead, inspire, and create content that informs, connects, and empowers our readers.

How to Apply:

Ready to join our team? Submit your cover letter, resume, and writing sample/portfolio, along with contact information for three references, to [email protected]. Please include “Managing Editor” in the subject line of your email.

Editorial Internships

Are you a budding journalist with a passion for storytelling and a commitment to amplifying LGBTQ voices? OutSmart Magazine is looking for Editorial Interns to join our team and gain hands-on experience in magazine production.

As an intern, you’ll have the chance to sharpen your writing and editing skills, learn about the fast-paced world of publishing, and get your work published in a trusted community publication. If you’re ready to expand your journalistic toolkit and contribute to meaningful stories, we’d love to hear from you!

What You’ll Do:

Write, edit, and contribute content for OutSmart’s print and digital platforms.
Collaborate with the editorial team to develop engaging stories that matter to the LGBTQ community.
Assist in the magazine production process, including research, fact-checking, and proofreading.
Learn the ins and outs of deadlines and workflows in a real-world publishing environment.

What We’re Looking For:

Experience in journalism, writing, or communications (classroom, personal projects, or previous internships).
A strong interest in LGBTQ issues and a passion for storytelling.
The ability to thrive under deadline pressure while maintaining attention to detail.
A collaborative, curious, and creative mindset.

Location:

We prefer interns who can work in person at our offices, where they’ll benefit from hands-on mentorship and a dynamic work environment. However, there may be opportunities for remote work for the right candidate.

This internship is more than just a resume builder—it’s an opportunity to gain real-world experience, learn from industry professionals, and see your work published in a respected LGBTQ publication. Whether you’re looking to refine your craft or make an impact through journalism, OutSmart is the perfect place to start.

How to Apply:

Ready to kick-start your editorial career? Send your cover letter and resume and writing samples to [email protected] with the subject line: Editorial Internship Application.

Organizations: OutSmart Magazine and OutSmart Foundation
Are you a social media whiz with a passion for storytelling and connecting communities? OutSmart Magazine is looking for a Part-Time Social Media Manager to elevate our online presence and engage with the LGBTQ community. This role offers a flexible schedule and the chance to make a real impact by amplifying the stories that matter most.

What You’ll Do:

Content Creation & Management: Develop and schedule engaging posts for Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and other platforms.
Community Engagement: Interact with followers, respond to comments and messages, and foster a welcoming online community.
Campaign Planning: Collaborate with the team to create and execute social media campaigns that promote OutSmart’s content, events, and initiatives.
Analytics & Optimization: Track social media performance, analyze data, and adjust strategies to maximize reach and engagement.
Trend Monitoring: Stay up to date on social media trends, platform updates, and best practices.

What We’re Looking For:

Experience: 1–2 years managing social media for a brand, organization, or personal project with proven results.
Skills: Strong writing, editing, and visual content creation skills. Basic graphic design experience (e.g., Canva, Adobe Spark) is a plus.
Knowledge: Familiarity with social media management tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer) and analytics platforms.
Passion: A genuine interest in LGBTQ issues and OutSmart’s mission to amplify diverse voices.
Organization: Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and manage a content calendar.

At OutSmart, you’ll have the opportunity to:

Shape the voice of a trusted LGBTQ publication across social platforms.
Work in a flexible, supportive, and inclusive environment.
Be part of a team that values creativity and connection.

Details:

Type: Part-time (10–20 hours per week, with flexible scheduling).
Location: Remote-friendly, with occasional opportunities to attend events.
Compensation: Hourly rate, commensurate with experience.

How to Apply:

If you’re ready to help grow OutSmart’s social presence, send your resume, a cover letter, and links to social media accounts you’ve managed (or examples of your work) to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.