Job Information
Houston Landing Columnist in Houston, Texas
The Houston Landing is looking for individuals to add to our team of passionate people on a mission to advance democracy in our communities and strengthen the lives of all Houstonians one story at a time. Houston Landing is an independent, nonpartisan news organization devoted to public service journalism. Initially supported by three of Houston’s leading philanthropies including Arnold Ventures, The Houston Endowment, and the Kinder Foundation.
The Houston Landing is hiring a columnist to tell the street stories of the 713 and beyond. This is a dream job in a dream town. Houston is a treasure trove for stories and characters. It is a hub of creativity, culture, innovation and success. Adversity, through hurricanes, power outages, poor roads, infrastructure, no zoning, you name it, makes us stronger. We want a voice, who speaks from the soul, and touches the heart of those we serve. Whether it is capturing the story of the moment or methodically picking apart a topic, our columnist's love for the people of Houston is the guidepost.
Be relevant. Bring joy. Think critically. Show your cards. Let your work speak without apology. If you read this, and know this is you. Do not hesitate. Reach out, now
Requirements
What you bring and what we want:
At least 10 years experience of creative writing, throw in on-camera reporting, strong podcast skills and social media presence.
A multi-cultural background that mirrors Houston and understands Houston.
Comfortable in communities, unafraid to call out excesses, meanness and shams.
Produce at least two columns a week, contribute to our newsletters, attend community events and be an on-camera presence.
Collaborate with our audience, marketing and development team to promote our work and elevate the brand of Houston Landing.
Be a mentor and colleague whose presence and life experience lifts others in the newsroom and out in the community.
Language proficiency, Spanish or another language, is preferred but not required. At the end of the day, we want you to speak Houston.
Benefits
Our Values
EXCELLENCE: We wake up every day with the intent to be the best at what we do. We hustle. We have grit. When we make mistakes, we quickly correct and learn from them.
INCLUSION: We aren’t all the same, and those differences are what make us better. We’ll respect each person’s uniqueness. Perspective, context and life experiences help us to tell the story.
AMBITION: We will be bold and creative, open to all ideas big or small. We really mean it.
FUN: We are not making widgets, although there is nothing wrong with widgets. We tell stories - and stories are often fun, so we believe in having lots of fun.
COLLABORATION: We are all in this together. We may not always agree, but we will listen to each other and communicate candidly and respectfully.
Benefits
Compensation commensurate with experience, minimum of $130,000
401(k)
Healthcare 100% premium paid for employee and 50% for dependents
20 vacation days
Ten sick days
Generous paid parental leave
Hybrid work policy (initially we all work together to build culture)
Stipend for development / learning
We’re committed to building an inclusive organization that represents the people and communities we serve. We encourage members of traditionally underrepresented communities to apply, including women, people of color, veterans, LGBTQ+ people and people with disabilities.