Assistant Picture Editor, Features

Join our team at the Guardian and be a part of a diverse and inclusive global organisation that delivers fearless, investigative journalism, and holds power to account. Our team of award-winning journalists, cutting-edge commercial professionals, and industry-leading digital experts are committed to making a difference and represent a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. We offer a challenging and exciting environment for career development, with a focus on training, growth and fostering an inclusive culture.

We are now looking for an assistant picture editor, Features to join our editorial team. You will carry out creative picture research in collaboration with section editors, sourcing compelling imagery to enhance editorial content. The stories you'll be working on could be anything from major global events, to popular culture, to inspiring stories of overcoming the odds.

This is a 12-month fixed-term contract or internal staff secondment.

About the role

• Research and generate creative, engaging ideas for illustrating stories.
• Work closely with editors and designers to source and deliver compelling imagery.
• Make decisions on editorial suitability and negotiate fees within budget, in collaboration with the Head of Photography, Features Picture Editor and section editors.
• Create online galleries where appropriate and as directed.
• Organise the flow of work across short- and long-term projects for digital and print publication.
• Occasionally commission photography with guidance from the Head of Photography and Features Picture Editor.

About you

• Proven experience in picture editing and research.
• Sound knowledge of generalist and specialist picture agencies and archives.
• Experience of commissioning photography, handling budgets and fee negotiation.
• A good network of contacts  and knowledge of freelance photographers in the UK and internationally.
• Thorough understanding of copyright and image licensing.
• Collaborative, open and inclusive in approach. 
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Ideally, you’ll have a demonstrable ability to bring a diverse perspective to this role.

We actively encourage applications from groups traditionally underrepresented  in the UK media

We currently operate a hybrid environment working at least 3 days a week from our offices in Kings Cross, central London.

We value and respect all differences (seen and unseen) in all people. We aspire to have inclusive working experiences and an environment that reflects the audience we serve, where our people have equal access to career development opportunities, their voices are heard and can contribute to our future. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. Many of our staff work flexibly and we will consider all requests for flexible working arrangements.

How to apply

To apply, please upload your latest CV and a cover letter which outlines why you’d love to take on this role, and why you’re a great match for what we’re looking for. If you have one, you’re also welcome to include a link to your portfolio, although this is not essential.

We appreciate the time taken to prepare each application we receive. We do not use AI-assisted technology to review applications; every application is reviewed by a member of our recruitment team.

The closing date for applications is Tuesday 9th June 2026.

All roles at the Guardian are open for everybody to apply. It is important to us that you feel supported and comfortable throughout your recruitment process, in order to perform your best. Please let us know if there are any changes we could make to help your application, this includes providing documents in accessible formats or personalising the process to better support your needs. Please contact Sean on [email protected] to discuss further so we can work with you to support you through your application.

Benefits at the Guardian

You'll have six weeks of annual leave per year (plus bank holidays) with the option to purchase an additional 5 days. Our pension scheme is generous; if you contribute 5% then we will contribute 8-12% (depending on your age). We believe in giving back, which is why employees are given 2 volunteering days annually and the option of payroll giving. Season ticket loans are also available.

You are entitled to life cover, income protection, and eye tests. You can also opt in to dental insurance.

We have enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave policies in place. We also support our employees by offering an IVF, menopause, baby loss, and trans equality policy.

Culture and wellbeing

We want everyone to feel like they belong at the Guardian and we champion diversity of thought. Our various employee forums provide a platform to use their voice to foster an inclusive workplace. We became the first major media organisation to achieve B Corp status.

We offer tools to help you prioritise your wellbeing including access to our employee benefits platform which provides tailored support for health and wellbeing. In addition, we also offer free yoga and pilates classes. These run alongside our corporate gym membership and cycle to work scheme.

Our canteen has views overlooking the Regents Canal and caters for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Learning and development

We encourage personal and professional growth. Employees have access to a broad range of tools and solutions, and we are happy to support the pursuit of professional qualifications through vocational courses and apprenticeships.