Book Critic
- Employer
- The Washington Post
- Location
- Washington, DC
- Posted
- Nov 09, 2022
- Closes
- Feb 12, 2023
- Ref
- JR-90274115
- Industry
- Media / Journalism / Advertising
- Career Level
- Experienced (Non-Manager)
- Hours
- Full Time
Application Instructions
Please list all professional experience and explain any gaps in employment history. All of your application materials, which may include PDF files of work samples and/or links to audio, video, photography or graphics, must be uploaded to the field labeled Resume/Cover Letter/Work Samples to be considered for the position.
Job Description
The Washington Post's expanding books team is looking for a nonfiction critic.
The critic will be an integral part of The Post's coverage digitally and in print, including the recently revived weekly Book World section. The position requires a distinctive and incisive style, a sense of humor (generally, a voice capable of leavening serious or even slightly wonky material), the willingness and ability to write one review each week, and an informed interest in nonfiction of various stripes. The writer should be willing to take strong positions and to start and advance arguments. They should also be interested in writing some pieces that go beyond reviews: high-end takes on various issues arising from the world of books, appraisals of writers in the news, etc. The critic will have a strong say in what they review but will also work closely with editors to determine priorities. There will be occasional need to very quickly read and review embargoed books.
The ideal candidate will be a broadly curious reader who has a long-standing personal interest in and knowledge of books and a sense of their own taste. They will enjoy being part of a team and collaborate well with others.
This position is based in our Washington newsroom.
Interested candidates should upload a résumé with links to their work and a cover letter outlining the experience and approach they would bring to the role to our jobs portal. All application materials can be uploaded to the same field. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, but those received by 11/28/2022 will be prioritized. The cover letter should be addressed to Books Editor John Williams, Executive Features Editor Ben Williams and Deputy Features Editor Mitch Rubin.
Wherever you are in your life or career, The Washington Post offers comprehensive and inclusive benefits for every step of your journey:
Benefits may vary based on the job, full-time or part-time schedule, location, and collectively bargained status.
The Post strives to provide its readers with high-quality, trustworthy news and information while constantly innovating. That mission is best served by a diverse, multi-generational workforce with varied life experiences and perspectives. All cultures and backgrounds are welcomed.
Ever wondered if what you are doing will Impact Tomorrow? At The Washington Post, every employee shapes the way we deliver the news. Find the career that's right for you
#washpostlife
Please list all professional experience and explain any gaps in employment history. All of your application materials, which may include PDF files of work samples and/or links to audio, video, photography or graphics, must be uploaded to the field labeled Resume/Cover Letter/Work Samples to be considered for the position.
Job Description
The Washington Post's expanding books team is looking for a nonfiction critic.
The critic will be an integral part of The Post's coverage digitally and in print, including the recently revived weekly Book World section. The position requires a distinctive and incisive style, a sense of humor (generally, a voice capable of leavening serious or even slightly wonky material), the willingness and ability to write one review each week, and an informed interest in nonfiction of various stripes. The writer should be willing to take strong positions and to start and advance arguments. They should also be interested in writing some pieces that go beyond reviews: high-end takes on various issues arising from the world of books, appraisals of writers in the news, etc. The critic will have a strong say in what they review but will also work closely with editors to determine priorities. There will be occasional need to very quickly read and review embargoed books.
The ideal candidate will be a broadly curious reader who has a long-standing personal interest in and knowledge of books and a sense of their own taste. They will enjoy being part of a team and collaborate well with others.
This position is based in our Washington newsroom.
Interested candidates should upload a résumé with links to their work and a cover letter outlining the experience and approach they would bring to the role to our jobs portal. All application materials can be uploaded to the same field. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, but those received by 11/28/2022 will be prioritized. The cover letter should be addressed to Books Editor John Williams, Executive Features Editor Ben Williams and Deputy Features Editor Mitch Rubin.
Wherever you are in your life or career, The Washington Post offers comprehensive and inclusive benefits for every step of your journey:
- Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage
- Company-paid pension and 401(k) match
- Three weeks of vacation and up to three weeks of paid sick leave
- Nine paid holidays and two personal days
- 20 weeks paid parental leave for any new parent
- Robust mental health resources
- Backup care and caregiver concierge services
- Gender affirming services
- Pet insurance
- Free Post digital subscription
- Leadership and career development programs
Benefits may vary based on the job, full-time or part-time schedule, location, and collectively bargained status.
The Post strives to provide its readers with high-quality, trustworthy news and information while constantly innovating. That mission is best served by a diverse, multi-generational workforce with varied life experiences and perspectives. All cultures and backgrounds are welcomed.
Ever wondered if what you are doing will Impact Tomorrow? At The Washington Post, every employee shapes the way we deliver the news. Find the career that's right for you
#washpostlife