The post-holiday hiring freeze is officially over. As we close out January 2026, we are seeing a significant surge in premium listings on the Mediabistro job board. But the story isn’t just about volume—it’s about variety.
Whether you are a seasoned executive, a remote-first creative, or a thrill-seeker looking for field work, here are the standout roles you need to apply for right now.
1. The Six-Figure Strategists (Executive & Leadership)
It is rare to see executive-level roles with such transparent compensation packages. These positions are ideal for veteran editors and publishers looking to pivot into specialized sectors such as tech and nonprofit journalism.
- Executive Editor at Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
New York, NY (Hybrid)
Leading the editorial voice for a major tech organization comes with a premium price tag. This role offers a salary range of $125k–$140k and puts you at the helm of a prestigious technology magazine. - Publisher at Piedmont Journalism Foundation
Warrenton, VA
For those passionate about local journalism, this is a chance to lead the business and editorial operations for prize-winning newspapers. The role starts at $125,000+ and focuses on community engagement and strategic growth. - Circulation Director at Milk Street
Remote
A data-driven role for a culinary media giant. If you understand subscription lifecycles and retention strategies, this remote position offers up to $110k.
2. True Remote & Creative Freedom
We know “remote” is a buzzword often misused, but these roles are the real deal. They offer genuine flexibility for creatives who want to work from anywhere.
- Creative Director, Political Advertising at Brainstorm Creative Resources
Remote
With the midterm cycle heating up, this role offers a competitive base salary plus significant bonuses. You’ll be crafting high-stakes messaging for progressive campaigns—a perfect fit for a political junkie with a design eye. - Outliner/Editor at Muonic Press
Remote
Fiction writers, take note. This unique role involves turning story ideas into detailed chapter outlines for thrillers and urban fantasy novels. It pays $30/hour and is strictly for human creatives—no AI applicants allowed. - Production Manager at Rizzoli International Publications
Remote (NY area preferred)
Work with one of the world’s most prestigious art book publishers. This freelance role ($45–$47/hour) manages the complex lifecycle of illustrated books, from color proofing to binding.
3. Action, Adrenaline & Sports
Not every media job involves sitting behind a desk. If you crave the field, these roles offer front-row seats to extreme weather and professional sports.
- Part-Time Storm Chaser at KOCO-TV (Hearst)
Oklahoma City, OK
Easily the most unique listing on our board this month. You will support meteorologists during severe weather events, operating vehicles and radar in high-pressure situations. A dream job for weather enthusiasts. - Senior Social & Digital Media Manager (NASCAR) at Prosport Management
Charlotte, NC
This isn’t just about tweeting; it’s about visual storytelling on the track. You’ll need to be a dual threat: a strategist who can build a roadmap and a photographer who can capture the action on pit road.
4. The “Heartland” Broadcast Boom
Major networks are expanding their teams outside of the coastal bubbles. We are seeing a high concentration of operational and on-air roles in the South and Midwest, particularly with Hearst Television.
- News Anchor at 16WAPT
Jackson, MS
A leadership role for an experienced journalist who can command the desk and mentor a team of reporters. - News Photographer at WGAL-TV
Lancaster, PA
For visual storytellers who want to shoot, edit, and execute live shots in a competitive market.
These premium roles are moving fast. Update your resume, check your portfolio, and apply directly through the links above to get your application in front of hiring managers today.
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