Associate Editor

Date Posted	September 05, 2025
Industry	Newspapers
Specialty	Local News
Required Education	High School Diploma
Job Status	Full-time
Salary	Negotiable

Description:

Are you ready to elevate your journalism career? The Ottumwa Courier is seeking a dedicated and passionate journalist to step into the role of Associate Editor, a pivotal position in our regional newsroom. As the No. 2 editor, you will play an integral role in shaping coverage, mentoring reporters, and ensuring high-quality journalism across The Courier and The Oskaloosa Herald.

Why Join Us

At The Ottumwa Courier and Oskaloosa Herald, we foster a collaborative newsroom where every journalist’s strengths help drive impactful reporting. This role offers a unique opportunity to take on editing responsibilities while continuing to write meaningful stories. We are committed to telling diverse stories that reflect the communities we serve, and we strongly encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

What We’re Looking For

• Strong writing and reporting skills with an eye for enterprise and high-impact stories.

• Detail-oriented editor who can coach, polish, and elevate copy.

• Organized, self-starting journalist with leadership potential.

• Excellent collaborator and communicator.

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism or related field preferred; relevant professional experience considered.

• Familiarity with AP Style and journalism ethics.

• Previous experience with newsroom production, planning, or mentoring is a plus.

• Bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply; Spanish skills are especially valuable in serving our diverse readership.

Key Responsibilities

• Edit daily stories, features, and enterprise reporting for accuracy, clarity, and style.

• Write 3–5 stories per week in addition to editing duties.

• Cover assigned beats, including local education and other priority areas.

• Provide editorial guidance, feedback, and support to staff writers.

• Help shape the daily and long-term news budget.

• Participate in The Courier’s editorial board.

• Manage the production of special publications and magazines.

About The Ottumwa Courier & Oskaloosa Herald

The Ottumwa Courier publishes twice weekly (Tuesday and Saturday) and covers Ottumwa, Wapello County, and the surrounding counties of Appanoose, Davis, Jefferson, and Monroe. Founded in 1848, The Courier has more than 175 years of service to its community.

The Oskaloosa Herald publishes once weekly (Saturday) and covers Mahaska and Marion counties.

Together, The Courier and Herald form a regional newsroom dedicated to watchdog reporting, features, and enterprise journalism that matter to our readers. We value impactful work and also respect time away from the job, ensuring staff have the chance to recharge and avoid burnout.

Both newspapers are owned by CNHI, LLC, which operates more than 80 publications across 19 states. CNHI is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants are considered without regard to any legally protected status, and reasonable accommodation is available for qualified individuals with disabilities and for religious beliefs.

How to Apply

Send a brief cover letter (detailing your interest in journalism and community newspapers), résumé, and 3–5 writing samples to: Kyle Ocker, Editor & General Manager — kocker@ottumwacourier.com