Greater Minnesota Columnist

The Star Tribune is the Upper Midwest’s largest news organization, with audience numbers consistently in the top five in the country among regional and national peers. Building on an extraordinary legacy that includes seven Pulitzer Prizes and hundreds of other awards, the Star Tribune is an unrivaled force for journalistic excellence in Minnesota. It is also a company under transformation – realigning its core purpose for a new age of media consumption through innovative new partnerships, technology strategies, and a refreshed strategic direction. Our company has a new vision to create the leading model for local news in America – driving innovation in media to make every Minnesotan’s life better. We’re looking for dynamic leaders to help create that model. We’re excited to work with people who care about journalism and democracy and are eager to reinvent one of our state’s most trusted companies for a completely new era of growth that embraces new technologies and strategies for excellence.

Job Summary:

The Star Tribune is looking for a columnist deeply rooted in our state who can offer readers insights with a distinct voice and superb writing and reporting on the changing dynamics of life in Greater Minnesota.

A thoughtful writer, you’re able to see individual stories and broader trends and provide thought-provoking commentary. Your work should engage and inspire readers, spark discussion and challenge conventional wisdom.

As part of our array of columnists, you’ll work with clarity and depth to broaden our coverage and understanding of our state. Comfortable in the public arena, you’ll engage with a variety of people and share your views with sophistication and fearlessness, rousing Minnesotans to build a stronger state for everyone.

Key responsibilities:

• Live in Greater Minnesota and travel around the state to generate columns, connect with communities, attend events and gather local perspectives.
• Build relationships with people across the state – from lifelong residents to immigrants to key community leaders – to shine a light on their lives. Don’t shy away from tensions. Look for solutions.
• Write compelling and original columns – generally two a week – that resonate with our readers, provoke thoughtful discussion and impart insights into the diversity and richness of Minnesota.
• Leverage other mediums, such as audio and video, to reach diverse audiences. Engage regularly in community forums, social media and other spaces to build avenues for engagement and amplification of your work and the Star Tribune.
• Work closely with your team to align your columns with the Star Tribune’s mission. Stay informed about evolving issues and stories in Greater Minnesota’s various regions and adapt your commentary to address emerging topics that are of interest to our readers.
• Connect the issues and insights you discover here with broader national trends.

Qualifications:

• Proven writing experience with a strong portfolio of published work demonstrating your ability to engage readers and present unique perspectives.
• Demonstrated reporting and analytical skills to support your perspectives.
• Deep understanding of Minnesota and the ability to connect with residents from diverse backgrounds, and a passion for uncovering unique viewpoints.
• A commitment to ethical journalism practices.
• Ability to multitask and juggle priorities on deadline.

Schedule: Variable hours could include nights, weekends and holidays.

To apply: Upload a resume and a memo outlining how you would approach the role, some top ideas for column topics, and a link to your work portfolio.