DESCRIPTION

The Columbia Basin Herald, a daily newspaper serving the heart of Central Washington, is seeking a strong, forward-thinking Editor to lead its newsroom into the next chapter of community journalism.

Based in Moses Lake, the Herald is the primary source of news and information for Grant and Adams counties. With deep roots in agriculture, energy, and rapid regional growth, this market presents a unique opportunity for an editor to lead impactful journalism that informs, challenges, and connects the community.

This role is ideal for a seasoned newsroom leader who understands that local journalism matters—and knows how to make it indispensable again.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Editorial Leadership: Lead a high-output newsroom in delivering timely, accurate, and compelling coverage across print and digital platforms. Set the tone, priorities, and expectations for daily and enterprise journalism.
• Community-Centered Journalism: Drive coverage that reflects the issues shaping the Columbia Basin—agriculture, water, energy, housing, education, and economic development—while maintaining strong watchdog reporting on local government and institutions.
• **Opinion & Editorial Voice: **Oversee the editorial page, including staff editorials, guest columns, and letters. Establish a clear, credible, and respected voice within the community.
• Enterprise & Impact Reporting: Elevate the newsroom beyond daily coverage by developing deeper, investigative, and enterprise journalism that differentiates the Herald and builds readership loyalty.
• Team Leadership & Development: Recruit, mentor, and develop newsroom staff. Build a culture of accountability, urgency, and continuous improvement in writing, reporting, and storytelling.
• **Product & Quality Management: **Partner with leadership to conduct regular product reviews, ensuring consistent improvement in story selection, design, photography, and digital presentation.
• **Digital Growth & Audience Focus: **Lead the newsroom in producing content that performs digitally—timely updates, strong headlines, and engaging storytelling—while supporting subscription growth and reader retention.
• Community Engagement: Act as a visible leader in the community, building relationships with readers, business leaders, and public officials while reinforcing the Herald's role as a trusted institution.

REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum 7+ years of newsroom experience, with leadership responsibility preferred
• Strong editorial judgment and proven ability to lead a newsroom
• Excellent writing, editing, and communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to manage deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Experience in digital publishing and audience growth strategies
• Passion for local journalism and community impact

COMPENSATION: Competitive salary commensurate with experience and leadership capability.

ABOUT THE COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD

Founded in 1941, the Columbia Basin Herald is the leading source of local news in Moses Lake and throughout Grant and Adams counties.

As part of the Hagadone Media Group, the Herald is committed to delivering high-quality journalism that informs the public, strengthens communities, and upholds the principles of the First Amendment.

OUR MISSION STATEMENT

"Our mission is to be the cornerstone of our communities, focusing on community journalism and providing accurate information. We are committed to safeguarding the Fourth Estate and First Amendment while collaborating with local businesses and civic partners to strengthen communities. We aim to create a supportive environment for our employees' growth, enabling them to positively impact, tackle new challenges, and embrace diverse perspectives. We are dedicated to achieving unparalleled excellence, sustainability, and progress, all in pursuit of delivering reliable community journalism and business solutions to our unique communities."

OUR COMMITMENT

At Hagadone Media Group, we believe local journalism is essential infrastructure. We invest in our newsrooms, our people, and our communities—and we are committed to building a sustainable future for trusted, independent journalism.

The Hagadone Media Group and the Columbia Basin Herald are equal-opportunity employers.