I’m Moving On from PC Mag

Let me begin by stating it bluntly: On June 1^st, I’m leaving a journalism job I’d wanted for as long as I can remember.

I’m leaving to pursue a career in real estate. Yeah, you heard me correctly – real estate. I’ve grown to love the ins and outs of Manhattan’s real estate market after making some recent investments – to the extent that I come home every night to check the latest listings, and even get text alerts on my phone when the closing price of a property in my neighborhood becomes public. I couldn’t pass up this opportunity, even if it meant walking away from a job I worked so hard to get. I’d be happy to explain exactly what I’ll be doing when I see you in person – the position couldn’t be a better fit.

I’ll still be the geek who refreshes the live stream frantically during Apple keynotes, and the guy you ask which entry-level DSLR to get your dad for Father’s Day. I plan to continue writing for PC Magazine and other publications on a freelance basis as time allows. You might even see me at parties and media events, as a “plus 1” of one of my very good industry friends, or perhaps representing my soon-to-be-frequently updated Tech, Travel & Tuna blog (look up – this is it).

The good news: not being tied to a magazine frees me up to post here more, to be more blunt in my Twitter posts, and gives me time to really play with some of the gadgets I never had a chance to before. The bad news: I’m leaving a corps of incredible journalists and some very hard-working vendors, who made my job a constant adventure.

As always, you can reach me at zshonig [at] gmail [dot] com.

Zach

P.S. Below you will find the job description for my soon-to-be-vacant position at PCMag.com. Please let me know if you have any questions about the required qualifications or job responsibilities.

Staff Editor – Consumer Electronics

Job Responsibilities:
–Produce, line edit, and write product reviews
–Write news stories, blog posts, and weekly newsletters
–Write and edit product roundups and buying guide
–Maintain a product reviews database and provide general support for analysts
–Help to maintain and update 15 landing pages on PCMag.com
–Prepare product photos for landing pages
–Meet with vendors for product briefings
–Represent PCMag at industry events

Applicant Requirements:
–At least 4 years of editing and online production experience, preferably in the tech arena. Knowledge and experience with the aforementioned product categories is a plus.
–Solid writing and editing skills and a keen eye for detail. Copy editing experience is a plus.
–Experience working with a content management system. Image editing experience is a plus.
–Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, competitive, deadline-driven environment
–Self-starter and proactive problem solver with a positive attitude
–Interest in and experience with social media is a plus
–Bachelors Degree (Journalism, Communications, or English preferred)