In the 16 years since it was founded, VTDigger has become Vermont’s essential source of news and investigation — and a model for sustainable, nonprofit journalism across the country.

We work to promote our mission of producing rigorous journalism that explains complex issues, promotes public accountability and fosters democratic and civic engagement each and every day.

VTDigger seeks an experienced and mission-driven Opinion Editor to lead our Opinion section — a vital platform for civic dialogue in Vermont.

The Opinion Editor is a part time position and is responsible for managing and shaping VTDigger’s Opinion section, which features commentary pieces written by community members and letters to the editor. This is a hands-on editorial role that combines strategic vision, daily execution, and community engagement.

The Opinion Editor will select and edit submissions, fact-check all content, and ensure that each piece meets VTDigger’s standards for quality, fairness, and accuracy. The ideal candidate is a thoughtful and detail-oriented editor with a deep respect for diversity of thought and political ideology, and a commitment to fostering meaningful public conversation.

This position is perfect for a journalist who thrives on working collaboratively, values precision and balance, and believes in the power of independent, community-based journalism to inform and strengthen democracy.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Publish 2-3 commentaries a day, includes figuring out timing of what will run when, ideally working several days ahead, attempting to get pieces out while they’re still relevant
Correspond with contributors about the status of their submissions
Fact-check all claims, statistics and quotations in submitted pieces
Edit pieces we want to run for content, clarity, style, grammar, etc.
Periodically track demographics of contributors and reach out to potential new contributors to further diversify the contributors and viewpoints included in the opinion section
Manage the opinion feedback form on the site and address new submissions as appropriate
Post opinion pieces and promote on social media, as needed
Support the digital team as needed with social media, newsletter and editing duties
Communicates professionally with contributors, sources, readers and colleagues
Attends and participates in newsroom, all-staff and, as needed, cross-functional team meetings
Attends VTDigger events, as needed
Other duties as assigned by their editor.

Position Requirements

Commitment and dedication to VTDigger’s mission, goals and values
Exceptional attention to detail
Commitment to accuracy and fairness
Adherence to the highest ethical standards
Commitment to the importance of diversity of thought
A digital-first mentality
Commitment to cultivating and developing an inclusive culture and working relationships across the organization and enhancing a sense of belonging
Communicative and collaborative across the organization, with employees and with VTDigger’s audiences
Maintaining high standards of expectations for themself, their team, the leadership and the organization
Commitment to continual improvement and learning
Ability to manage deadlines, workloads and changing priorities, particularly during peak periods

Skills And Experience

Professional reporting, editing, fact-checking, and/or opinion editing experience
Ability to meet short deadlines
Clear understanding of journalism principles, ethics, standards and style
Knowledge of analytics, Adobe Suite, Wordpress CMS, digital management tools are preferred but not required
Curiosity, flexibility and a willingness to tackle stories over a range of subjects

Working Conditions

Work may be performed from our Montpelier, Vermont office or remotely. Vermont-based candidates are preferred, but exceptional remote candidates will be considered.

Physical Demands

Work is performed primarily in a seated or standing position, with extended computer use. Occasional travel to community events or meetings may be required. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Supervisory Duties

None

Hours

The Opinion Editor typically works a set weekday schedule with flexibility for occasional night or weekend duties, in consultation with their editor.

Compensation: $23-$28.50 per hour

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Opinion Editor (Part Time)