Lookout Local seeks a modern, community-devoted Community Voices/Opinion Editor to join our team as we launch Lookout Eugene-Springfield in early 2024. This is a unique opportunity to shape a vibrant public forum in Lane County, building on Lookout’s successful, award-winning model of community-focused journalism.
Position OverviewThe Community Voices/Opinion Editor is responsible for curating and creating a dynamic platform for public discourse using a mix of op-eds, letters to the editor, editorials and forum leadership. This editor works closely with community members and leaders to engage in the most pressing local issues, fostering understanding, solutions, and spirited debate. The role encompasses producing op-eds, editorials, letters to the editor, and organizing forums that deepen civic engagement and community connection.
Lookout Eugene-Springfield aims to offer a thoughtful, solutions-oriented opinion section that lives both on our digital platforms and in the community through events and partnerships.
Responsibilities
Editorial Leadership:
- Develop and oversee Lookout Eugene-Springfield’s Community Voices/Opinion section, ensuring a balanced, inclusive, and engaging range of perspectives.
- Solicit, edit, and publish contributions from community leaders, subject matter experts, and residents.
- Write compelling editorials that reflect Lookout’s values and address critical local issues.
Community Engagement:
- Actively engage with diverse community voices, building relationships to ensure the platform represents all segments of Lane County.
- Organize and moderate public forums, events, and other initiatives that foster civic dialogue.
- Represent Lookout Eugene-Springfield at community events, strengthening its role as a trusted local institution.
Content Development:
- Ensure content meets the highest journalistic standards of fairness, accuracy, and clarity.
- Collaborate with Lookout’s newsroom to align opinion content with broader editorial priorities and local news coverage.
- Leverage newsletters, social media, and app-based tools to distribute and amplify content.
Innovation and Growth:
- Explore and apply modern digital tools to elevate the impact of opinion journalism.
- Continuously seek innovative ways to grow reader engagement and participation.
Qualifications- Proven experience in opinion or editorial leadership, preferably in a local news environment.
- A strong understanding of the role of opinion journalism in community betterment.
- Exceptional editing and writing skills, with a clear and engaging voice.
- Demonstrated ability to build relationships across diverse communities.
- Experience organizing public events or forums is a plus.
- Familiarity with Lane County and a passion for its people and issues.
- A collaborative, forward-thinking mindset with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced digital newsroom.
Application Process: Please send your resume and cover letter to jobs@lookoutlocal.com and put Eugene, [Job Title] in the subject line.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Full-time benefits include highly competitive medical, dental, and optical benefits, and 401(k) with matching.
- Good PTO allowances
- Equity, in the form of stock options.
- An opportunity to make a significant impact on the revival of local journalism.
- A collaborative and mission-driven work environment.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Lookout Eugene-Springfield is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.