News Editor and Senior Reporter

The (Columbus, Mississippi) Commercial Dispatch is seeking an experienced journalist to join its award-winning newsroom as news editor. The Dispatch, a family-owned five-day daily, has a long history of producing impactful investigative journalism, and while other papers are pulling back, we are seeking to push forward.

Our news editor works closely with the managing editor to plan coverage, work with reporters, edit copy and proof page layouts. We currently have four newsroom positions under the news editor. While this is an editor level position, our editors also write. We are seeking someone who understands the importance of not only having the facts but also telling a compelling story. This is an excellent opportunity to hone your editing skills while keeping your reporting skills sharp. Time management, high productivity, good news judgment and unflagging persistence are essential attributes.

The right candidate values the impact a committed newspaper can have on the community it serves and understands the important role local sports reporting plays in that effort. Our home is in Columbus, Mississippi, a charming river city of 23,000 with an Air Force base, small liberal arts university and rich history. We also maintain a presence – and office – in Starkville, which is 20 minutes away. Starkville is home to Mississippi State University and has a good assortment of entertainment and dining options.

We are looking for someone with newsroom experience or a degree in journalism. Photography skills are a plus.

All members of our newsroom have the ability to – and are encouraged to – pursue projects of personal interest. These can be features, investigative pieces, data-driven pieces, photo essays or even profiles of local personalities. Compelling stories take many forms, and we are open minded.

Salary range is $45,000 - $50,000 based on experience. Full benefits include health, dental and vision insurance, paid time off, retirement plan with employer match, gym membership assistance and other fringe benefits. Hybrid work is available.

The Dispatch has won General Excellence in both the editorial and advertising divisions of the Mississippi Press Association’s Better Newspaper Contest multiple years in a row, but that certainly wasn’t the first time we’ve been recognized. In 2015 we won the Daniel E. Phillips Freedom of Information Award for our investigative journalism work. The following year one of our reporters won the Bill Minor Prize for General News Reporting. Both awards were given to only one paper of any size state-wide. In 2017, because of our focus on investigative work, we were one of 10 newsrooms selected by Investigative Reporters & Editors to receive complimentary Total Newsroom Training. We like tackling important stories and are building on our successes.

If The Dispatch sounds like a good fit for you, email cover letter, resume and writing samples to publisher Peter Imes at pimes@cdispatch.com.