Opinion Writer

Job Description:

Boston Globe Opinion has an opening for an opinion writer. The position’s duties will include writing unsigned editorials, longer reported commentary, and shorter signed columns. For this position we are particularly interested in adding to our range of voices a writer who can thoughtfully articulate conservative or right-leaning perspectives.

Boston Globe Opinion is a team of about 25 journalists whose mission is to present incisive, clear, and informative commentary on a wide range of topics and from diverse points of view. We believe that an informed readership benefits from journalism that challenges as well as bolsters their beliefs.

Responsibilities:

In this role, the writer will be expected to participate in thrice-weekly editorial board meetings and to produce a regular cadence of unsigned editorials representing the collective view of the board. We are a regional news organization that focuses mainly on local and even hyperlocal issues. But we also weigh in on pressing national and international debates. In all these things, we strive for clarity, fairness, common sense, and well-reported judgments. The job requires working collegially with other board members who might come to the table with sharply differing points of view.

Writing editorials is only part of the job. This writer will also have the freedom to write signed columns about personal and public topics of their choosing, in collaboration with their editor. And they will be encouraged to do longer reported commentary for our Sunday Ideas section. Hitting the street, talking to people, and reading relevant documents and reports will always be stressed over armchair opining.

The writer will also be asked to contribute to our other digital products. These include weekly newsletters on politics and other subjects, short posts for Substack and social media, and short-form video. On occasion they might be asked to join in panel discussions on our weekly podcast, Say More.

Qualifications: 

Understanding how to craft thoughtful, compelling, and clear editorials, first-person narratives, and in-depth commentary is vital. But we are also looking for candidates who are skilled in the basics of news reporting. That means comfortably navigating fast-breaking and chaotic events; locating and analyzing documents; conducting in-depth interviews; and writing swiftly.

Curiosity, intellectual independence, humility, analytical reasoning, and the creativity to generate compelling ideas are essential qualities for the job. A sense of humor is always a plus. So is the ability to write elegantly and with voice.

The ideal candidates should have some experience working for a daily news organization or weekly news magazine. Bonus points for demonstrated skill in hosting and/or producing short-form video, and optimizing written pieces for search and social. Double bonus points to candidates who are familiar with New England generally and the Boston area specifically.

Though we are looking for applicants whose world views lean right-of-center, we value open-mindedness and a sense of fairness over ideological purity.

The BGMP office is located in downtown Boston, near Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, and is easily accessible by MBTA and commuter rail lines. This position is based in Boston, and candidates should be based in the area or willing to move.

The hourly rate for this role is $41.29 - $53.84.

This position is a union position covered by a collective bargaining agreement with the Boston Newspaper Guild.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

EEO Statement: At Boston Globe Media, our mission is to empower, connect, and convene our communities with independent, trusted journalism and storytelling. We know a critical part of achieving this is by having a workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. Boston Globe Media is an equal opportunity employer that welcomes candidates and colleagues of all backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and skills.