Die Zeit seeks AI experts and conservative voices in major hiring push
Die Zeit Urgently Seeks Young Conservative Journalists
The Zeit is actively looking for young conservative journalists, Co-Editor-in-Chief Jochen Wegner announced on Friday at Media Camp 2026, addressing aspiring reporters. "If you've ever thought Christian Lindner was doing a good job, you're an interesting candidate for us," Wegner said.
He emphasized that conservative voices are particularly needed in sections where opinion pieces dominate. "We have a hundred people who can represent progressive views in commentaries," he noted, but added that the paper lacks "25-year-olds who would defend Friedrich Merz."
Beyond political leanings, Die Zeit—like much of the industry—is currently seeking data journalists and AI specialists. "We recently published the entire Nazi Party membership records online," Wegner explained. "No one else had that, and it wouldn't have been possible without AI." He also highlighted strong job prospects in real estate and defense policy reporting.
The paper is also on the lookout for journalists with language skills: "Fluent Mandarin—that would be fantastic." While Die Zeit has correspondents in Asia, Wegner admitted the outlet isn't as well positioned there as he'd like. Russian speakers, too, are in demand.
Media Camp 2026 took place on April 23 and 24 at Berlin's Kulturbrauerei, featuring over 40 leading professionals who shared their expertise in sessions, workshops, and ask-me-anything discussions. The event kicked off with an exclusive media tour, offering behind-the-scenes access to the Berliner Morgenpost, Die Zeit, and Media Pioneer.
Attendance was free for students, interns, and trainees, and this year saw record-breaking registrations. The event is organized by media publisher Oberauer, which also owns kress.
