Opinion writer

Description:

The Chattanooga Times Free Press, an award-winning, independently owned newspaper in a thriving city in Southeast Tennessee, is seeking an editorial writer to produce timely editorials and commentary that reflect the institutional values of the liberal Chattanooga Times opinion page. 

This writer will join an opinion team that includes an editorial cartoonist and a conservative editorial writer. The Times Free Press, unique in offering dual, independent and opposing editorial pages, is committed to providing readers a broad range of political commentary and reflections on issues of the day. Both editorial pages publish seven days a week.

The Times’ editorial writer conducts original reporting and research for editorials based on local, state and national news; closely follows the latest news and developments; and is able to develop sources across the community; handles social media. 

Strong reporting and writing skills are essential; previous experience as an editorial/opinion writer is a plus. Writing should reflect versatility, clear thinking and strong, persuasive and engaging language. Ideal candidates would have at least five years of experience in reporting and writing; have understanding of municipal and state government; be skilled in use of social media to build an audience and reach and engage readers.  

The Times Free Press is a privately owned mid-sized newspaper that circulates in more than two dozen counties in Tennessee and Georgia. The newsroom produces a daily newspaper, three weekly community newspapers and two magazines.

Chattanooga is a city on the rise. It’s one of the top outdoor destinations in the country with a growing, thriving downtown and has been a magnet for big industry in recent years. The city is within a convenient two-hour drive to Atlanta, Nashville, Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains and is known for its fast internet speeds, some of the fastest in the world. 

Those interested in applying should send a cover letter, resume, work samples and references to Chris Vass at cvass@timesfreepress.com. Please include “editorial page writer” in the subject line.