Testing Editor, MotorTrend

Overview (Why This Role?)

Are you passionate about cars, precision testing, and helping consumers make smart buying decisions? As a Testing Editor at MotorTrend, you’ll combine hands-on product testing with expert storytelling to shape how millions of readers choose automotive gear and evaluate vehicles.

About Hearst Magazines (Why Us?)

Hearst Magazines’ portfolio of more than 30 iconic brands in the U.S.—including Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Esquire, Good Housekeeping, Harper’s BAZAAR, and Popular Mechanics — inspires, entertains, and builds new and bold experiences for an engaged and growing audience across digital, video, social and print, reaching nearly 130 million readers and site visitors each month. With sophisticated content creation, cutting-edge technology, and industry-leading data capabilities, we make media and products that move people across all platforms. We are a global media company that publishes nearly 200 magazine editions and 175 websites around the world—and together, we are shaping what’s next.

Key Responsibilities (What You Are Doing)

• Develop, document, and execute test procedures for automotive accessories, tools, and parts
• Write detailed product reviews, comparison roundups, and seasonal gift guides under tight deadlines
• Conduct vehicle testing—including acceleration, braking, and handling—using data acquisition tools such as VBox
• Execute range and charging tests on electric vehicles and analyze resulting data
• Create vehicle specification charts from manufacturer data and MotorTrend test results
• Provide subjective impressions and technical insights to inform MotorTrend’s vehicle reviews and comparisons
• Edit content for factual accuracy and technical precision
• Support MotorTrend’s awards programs, including Car, SUV, and Truck of the Year, and Best Tech evaluations
• Travel for product testing, comparison programs, and vehicle launch events, representing the MotorTrend brand

Qualifications (What We’re Looking For)

• 2 years of experience in digital publishing
• Strong writing skills with a proven ability to deliver clear, engaging content quickly
• Passion for cars and working knowledge of major mechanical and electrical systems
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and handling data for analysis and reporting
• A valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
• Understanding of performance driving dynamics, including racetrack driving and launching manual transmission vehicles
• Preferred: Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or engineering
• This role is hybrid with 4 days per week in the office in either El Segundo, CA or Royal Oak, MI

Benefits (What We Offer)

• Work with the Best: Collaborate with top-tier professionals across media, advertising, tech, fashion, lifestyle, and publishing, shaping the future of these dynamic industries.
• Grow Your Skills: Unlock your potential with access to innovative training programs, immersive workshops, and exclusive industry events.
• Work-Life Harmony: Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid work, empowering you to balance professional success with personal priorities.
• Foster Connection & Belonging: Join our Employee Resource Groups and help create a welcoming workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered.
• Wellness First: Prioritize your well-being with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance from Day 1.
• Plan for Your Financial Future: Enjoy competitive financial perks, including a 401(k) plan with a generous company match.

The base salary for this role is between $62,000 - $77,000 . The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as: transferable skills, work experience, business needs and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

Hearst is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

This is a position covered under the Writers Guild of America, East, Collective Bargaining Agreement.