Columnist/Editorial Writer

Hearst Newspapers • San Francisco, CA

75d • $90,000 - $105,000

About The Position

The San Francisco Chronicle is looking for a thoughtful journalist with policy chops, strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of Bay Area and California politics to join its editorial board. In this role, you’ll work with the editorial page editor to craft deeply reported columns and unsigned editorials on public policy and how it impacts life for Californians. You’ll also drive special projects—such as election endorsements and longform initiatives—and help grow our digital reach and audience engagement.

Requirements

• 5–7+ years of experience in opinion journalism, government reporting, and/or editorial writing.
• A strong understanding of how California and Bay Area government functions.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex policy issues and explain them clearly, accurately, and persuasively to a broad audience.
• Experience covering or interpreting public budgets, housing and criminal justice policy, environmental regulation, education reform, or transportation infrastructure is a plus.
• A digital-first mindset: ability to write for online platforms and ideas to grow readership.
• A desire and ability to take on enterprise projects, including Atlantic-style longform analysis.

Responsibilities

• Produce a weekly column under your own byline as well as several agenda-setting monthly editorials on public policy, legislation, ballot measures and political developments.
• Lead and contribute to special editorial campaigns, such as election endorsements, issue-driven series, and investigative opinion projects.
• Offer rapid analysis of local and state government decisions, with a particular focus on policy impact and governance efficacy.
• Tell the stories of residents of the Bay Area and how public policy decisions impact their lives.
• Monitor local and state legislative developments, attend public meetings when necessary, and build relationships with sources in government, academia, and advocacy.
• Adapt editorial content to succeed with our digital audience.
• Analyze audience engagement metrics and adjust content strategy accordingly.
• Attend in-person editorial board meetings with state and local policymakers.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage to keep you and your family healthy.
• Competitive retirement plan with matching program in most markets.
• Generous Paid Time Off, including holidays and vacation.
• Paid Parental Leave for new parents.
• Monthly Child & Dependent Care Reimbursement.
• Mental wellness benefits.
• Inclusive healthcare designed for every individual’s unique needs.
• Fertility Coverage & Menopause Support.
• Pet Wellness Reimbursement & Rover Credits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level