Can you drive the political narrative of the biggest battleground state with breaking news, features, columns, projects and digital media?

We are seeking a new political editor whose coverage will be rooted in Tampa Bay, but stretch across the entire state. Florida has a new governor who is still a relative unknown for most of our readers. This person will write the governor’s story: what he’s doing, who he is, where he’s taking us. In addition, this person will explain how national politics are affecting Tampa Bay and Florida (and brace us for the 2020 presidential race just around the bend). Expect to work closely with our Tallahassee bureau and National Political Correspondent, and to make trips to Washington, Tallahassee and across Florida to cover lawmakers, Cabinet members and state leaders in the Republican and Democratic parties.

The “editor” in the job title is a reference to the expectation that this person will help set our coverage plan. We need someone who isn’t shy about sharing opinions so we can better calibrate coverage strategy.

It’s a job that demands staying on top of insiders and policy without getting bogged down in minutiae. You’ll be writing for a general audience, but you’ll need to master the subjects you cover so that you’ll become a must read for those in power, too. Strong investigative and explanatory skills are a prerequisite.

We’re looking for someone who is a newsroom leader open to the various ways we can tell stories, be it online, video, podcast or print. You’ll need to be comfortable in the public eye, not only as an ambassador for the Times in moderating community and statewide forums, but also as a frequent target of vitriol that will surely come your way in this divisive political age. Don’t worry. Do the job right and there will be plenty of acclaim as well.

It’s a fun job, but it’s also one of the most important journalism jobs in Florida. It comes with a platform where you’ll be able to set an agenda for millions. We’re looking for someone with authority and experience to cover the state’s diverse political landscape.

Current staff is encouraged to apply and we will consider outside applicants. Send a resume, clips and story ideas to government and politics editor Michael Van Sickler at mvansickler@tampabay.com by Feb. 11.