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Editorial Writer

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The Austin American-Statesman (statesman.com) has been the leading source of news and information for Central Texas since 1871, serving a dynamic and fast-growing region anchored by the capital city of Texas. Austin is known for its vibrant tech industry, rich cultural heritage, influential government institutions and creative spirit. Since its acquisition by Hearst in 2025, the Statesman continues to operate with editorial independence while benefiting from Hearst’s expansive journalistic and technological resources.

Austin is America’s 11th-largest city, home to state government and intense debates on education, immigration, government accountability, gun violence, climate change and other topics. Our Texas politics routinely draw national scrutiny. Meanwhile, Elon Musk is growing his empire here, while local debates over housing, affordability and transportation cut across partisan lines and speak to the core interests of our readers. An effective editorial writer must be passionate about holding elected officials and government agencies accountable.

What you will do:

Writer will be responsible for producing at least two unsigned editorials a week working with the Editorial Page Editor.

Produce projects such as candidate endorsements and more.

Draw new audiences through a keen understanding of digital audience development, and connect with readers through social media.

Collaborate with other departments to provide appropriate elements for the story (i.e. photos, videos and graphics.)

Provide thoughtful analysis and sophisticated journalism.

Will be asked to contribute, on occasion, as an editor.

Must be willing to attend meetings or events during or outside of “traditional” work hours, cultivating new and diverse sources, and digging for news before it breaks.

Must be willing to engage with the Statesman audience through social media, understanding digital audiences, SEO and must not be shy about appearing on camera

What will it take to be successful?

Bachelor's in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

5 years of demonstrated writing and editing experience in a newsroom.

Experience in a data-driven and a fact-driven approach to opinion reporting and analysis.

Fluency in Spanish is highly preferred.

This role requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation.

About Hearst Newspapers

The Austin American-Statesman is a division of Hearst Newspapers (HNP).

With 2,500 employees across the nation, HNP represents a network of 24 daily and 52 weekly publications, including the San Francisco Chronicle, Houston Chronicle, San Antonio Express-News and Albany Times Union, marketing services businesses, and entertainment businesses such as King Features Syndicate.

At HNP, we are investing in new and innovative ways to tell stories – growing newsrooms, diversifying tools, evolving platforms – to support the millions of people who trust us each month to help them make decisions, take action and be inspired.

Be a part of something bigger – Your Headline Awaits!

Average salary estimate

$70000 / YEARLY (est.)

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$60000K

$80000K

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What You Should Know About Editorial Writer, Hearst

The Austin American-Statesman is on the lookout for a passionate Editorial Writer to join our vibrant team in Austin, Texas. With a rich history dating back to 1871, the Statesman remains the leading source of news and information for Central Texas, and now, we're more dedicated than ever to holding those in power accountable. As an Editorial Writer, you'll produce at least two unsigned editorials a week alongside our Editorial Page Editor, delving into the crucial issues that matter to our readers. Whether it's candidate endorsements or insightful analyses of pressing topics such as immigration and climate change, your contributions will reach a diverse audience across various platforms. We know that storytelling in today's digital age requires creativity; thus, you'll collaborate with our talented team to integrate photos, videos, and graphics into your storytelling. We're seeking someone with significant experience in journalism—ideally, five years in a newsroom—and ideally, you're fluent in Spanish. This role also calls for a willingness to engage actively with our community through social media, ensuring that your voice resonates with the audience. Join us in this exciting endeavor at the Austin American-Statesman and help shape the conversation across Texas!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Editorial Writer Role at Hearst

What are the key responsibilities of an Editorial Writer at the Austin American-Statesman?

As an Editorial Writer at the Austin American-Statesman, your primary responsibilities include producing at least two unsigned editorials weekly, collaborating with the Editorial Page Editor on various projects, and engaging with the audience through social media. You'll analyze significant local and national issues and occasionally contribute as an editor, ensuring our editorial content is compelling and thought-provoking.