Opinion Writer

Are you someone who can craft a must-read column, tell an engaging story, and wants to be a thoughtful voice in the community where you live?

We’re looking for a different kind of opinion writer and editorial board member — one with strong opinions who can report and write a powerful editorial, but also one with an ear for storytelling and eye for the big and small things your community is buzzing about.

Our Next Opinion Writer Will

• Report and write columns and editorials with a local and state lens, regularly breaking news and hold officials to account;
• Visualize and execute strong opinion journalism, including multi-day projects;
• Respond to events with opinion at the speed of news.
• Pursue innovative approaches to reach underserved audiences

The successful candidate will be a fresh voice and sharp thinker with a love for community-based reporting. She or he will be someone who embraces a digital-first focus that rewards quick, thoughtful writing and an eagerness to try new things.

This writer will help readers and would-be readers understand the contribution local opinion journalism can make to the health of a community. He or she will engage in respectful community building both online and by hosting community conversations with a goal of growing support for our work.

This person will grow readership of our editorials by acting on available audience data. Skills and experience with video and/or podcasting are a plus. The position will report to the Kansas City Star Opinion Editor and be based in Kansas City.

Key Requirements

• At least 3-5 years of reporting experience, preferably on local issues and/or government.
• Strong editing skills and excellent news judgment.
• A zeal for understanding and using readership data.
• An interest in telling stories using a variety of media, and an enthusiasm for learning new skills and technologies.
• Comfort with a job that will be fast-paced and constantly evolving.

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.