Opinion Columnist

Job Title: Opinion Columnist

Location: St. Petersburg, FL / Tampa Bay Region

Position Summary:

The Tampa Bay Times is seeking a sharp, digitally savvy Opinion Columnist to help shape public conversation across the Tampa Bay region and Florida. This role is designed for a journalist with strong news instincts, compelling storytelling abilities, and a fearless commitment to accountability journalism.

The ideal candidate is deeply curious about local and state issues, thrives under deadline pressure, and is motivated to move beyond surface-level narratives to deliver reporting and commentary that informs, challenges, and engages readers. This journalist will produce timely, voice-driven opinion columns while also helping expand audience engagement through digital storytelling, video, social media, newsletters, podcasts, and emerging platforms.

This position requires a journalist who is equally comfortable writing quick-turn commentary and pursuing deeper enterprise work. The successful candidate will actively build community relationships and source networks while serving as a visible public-facing voice for the Tampa Bay Times.

Responsibilities:

Write timely, compelling opinion columns focused primarily on local and state news, politics, government, and public accountability
Identify and develop original column ideas that drive public conversation and advance meaningful community dialogue
Cultivate strong relationships with sources, community leaders, elected officials, and residents across the Tampa Bay region
Report beyond official narratives to uncover deeper context, accountability angles, and underreported issues
Produce a consistent volume of high-quality commentary under tight deadlines
Develop a distinct, engaging voice that resonates across multiple audiences and platforms
Collaborate with newsroom editors, reporters, and audience teams to maximize reach and impact
Create and participate in digital-first storytelling, including video, social media content, newsletters, live events, podcasts, and other audience engagement initiatives
Represent the Tampa Bay Times in public forums, community events, and digital spaces as a recognizable voice of the organization
Monitor local and state news developments closely and respond quickly to emerging stories and trends
Assist with occasional editing, content coordination, and opinion section workflow support as needed
Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, political science, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience
Minimum of 5 years of professional journalism experience, preferably covering local or state government, politics, public affairs, or community issues
Exceptional writing, reporting, interviewing, and storytelling skills
Strong understanding of Florida and Tampa Bay news, politics, and community dynamics
Demonstrated ability to develop sources and produce original enterprise journalism
Proven ability to work effectively under deadline pressure in a fast-paced newsroom environment
Comfort appearing on video, audio, social media, and public-facing platforms
Experience with digital audience engagement and multimedia storytelling strategies
Strong editorial judgment and commitment to journalistic ethics, accuracy, and fairness
Ability to adapt quickly between breaking commentary, enterprise reporting, and audience engagement initiatives
Collaborative mindset with the ability to work across newsroom teams and platforms

Application Instructions: Interested candidates should submit a resume, at least two writing samples or published columns, and a written statement outlining their vision and ideas for the role by May 29.