SC Opinion Editor

Description

We’re looking for a thoughtful editor and strong writer to lead and expand our opinion journalism efforts at The State in Columbia, SC, and to coordinate our opinion work at other McClatchy news organizations in South Carolina.

The successful candidate will be a digital– first journalist who has a vision for providing compelling and insightful commentary that resonates with our readers. The opinion editor will direct the editorial board’s efforts to effect change, break news, write persuasively, elevate varied perspectives and work across multiple platforms.

We want someone who sees opinion pages as a place where members throughout our communities see their perspectives represented. Success in this position calls for leading relevant discussions of local and statewide issues and including a wide range of diverse political views in our opinion content.

The opinion editor will write reported editorials representing The State as well as reported columns and will take the lead in soliciting commentary from influential thinkers throughout the state of South Carolina. The opinion editor will continually work to find ways to engage our audiences.

While editorial board members write for both online and print, a digital metabolism is required for this position. The opinion editor will also play a key role in our outreach efforts, planning community events, speaking to local groups and appearing on video.

The opinion editor will be based in Columbia but will also take the lead in coordinating opinion efforts in McClatchy’s other South Carolina markets.

Key Requirements

• At least 3– 5 years of journalism experience.
• Skill and versatility as a writer and editor, including the ability to shape opinion pieces in a way that best serves and engages the broadest possible audience.
• Strong writing skills, excellent news judgment and a demonstrated ability to “see the story” that is going to matter to readers.
• A zeal for understanding and using readership data to inform the editorial process.
• An interest in telling stories using a variety of media and enthusiasm for learning new skills and technologies.
• Comfort with a job that will be demanding, fast– paced and constantly evolving.
• Minimum Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Must have reliable transportation.
• Must have valid driver’s license and vehicle insurance required (at least minimum insurance required for the state in which the employee works).

McClatchy is committed to providing equal employment opportunity (EEO) for all applicants and employees. McClatchy considers all candidates without regard to basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, ancestry, medical condition, family care status, pregnancy or physical disability (except where physical fitness is a valid occupational qualification), or any other basis protected by state and federal laws.