Food Columnist

As the state’s largest local news organization, Hearst Connecticut Media Group is reaching audiences with ambitious, compelling journalism wherever they are through CT Insider’s app and websites, in newsletters, on social media, through podcasts and in print.

We’re looking for a versatile, collaborative Food Columnist who will write quick-turn columns, shoot and host videos and produce larger interactive projects. This is an opportunity to do meaningful work in a fast-moving environment where strong reporting, sharp instincts and great storytelling truly matter.

This columnist will cover the state’s food scene through text, photos and video, including restaurant news, emerging trends and features on the people shaping how Connecticut eats.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Work collaboratively with editors, other reporters, photographers, audience team members and AI tools to tell impactful stories across platforms that engage and retain readers and viewers
• Report and write quickly and effectively to break news online and follow up when appropriate with more in-depth enterprise pieces
• Demonstrate a comfort level with analyzing and interpreting metrics and use them to inform coverage decisions in real-time and the long-term
• Approach every story by asking what the audience needs to know, not just what happened, and build coverage that answers questions, provides context and creates value
• Shoot and edit photos and video and appear on camera as host for regularly occurring video series
• Spend time engaging with the audience and using that to inform building sources and reporting
• Understand and follow the newsroom's AI policy and use approved enterprise tools

Qualifications:

• Previous food reporting experience required
• Experience writing or editing at a newspaper, news website or magazine
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in journalism, English, communications or related field preferred
• Demonstrated success working in a deadline-driven environment
• Highly organized and detail-oriented with a proven ability to effectively juggle multiple tasks
• Valid driver’s license and a working vehicle are required for this position
• Ability to work a flexible schedule for breaking news and special content opportunities, including nights and weekends

To Apply:

Send a cover letter, resume and clips for review.

HCMG is committed to growing and retaining a more diverse workforce that better reflects the communities we serve. We strongly encourage all people of working age, who are traditionally underrepresented in media to apply, including women, people of color, applicants with disabilities, those from the LGBTQ+ community and veterans.

Some great candidates may not check all the boxes for this role. If you’re a passionate, dedicated worker who's interested in Hearst Connecticut Media Group but don’t have all the skills listed here, please still reach out and tell us more about what you bring to the table.

This full-time job with benefits is based in Norwalk, Connecticut and is not eligible for remote candidates.

Additional Information:

Sponsorship: This position does not provide immigration sponsorship. Applicants must have the right to work in the U.S. without immigration sponsorship.

Accommodations: We are committed to an accessible application process. If you need an accommodation to apply, please contact . This email address is for accommodation requests only.

Benefits:

We support our employees through personal and professional development while promoting the physical, financial and emotional wellbeing of employees and their families. Our benefits include:

• • Health & Wellness: Medical, dental and vision coverage, along with disability and life insurance.
  • Retirement: 401(k) plan with company matching in most markets.
  • Paid Time Off: Three weeks of vacation annually, plus paid holidays. Jumps to 20 year 5!
  • Family Support: Paid parental leave and monthly child & dependent care reimbursement.
  • Financial Wellbeing: Health savings account and flexible spending account options.
  • Professional Development: Paid training opportunities, including journalism conferences.
  • Technology: Mobile phone reimbursement.
  • Mental & Emotional Wellbeing: Employee assistance and mental wellness programs.
  • Inclusive Healthcare: LGBTQ+ inclusive health services designed to support individual needs.
  • Fertility & Family Health: Fertility coverage and menopause support.
  • Pet Benefits: Pet wellness reimbursement and Rover credits.
  • And More: Additional benefits and program details are available here.