If you have ever scrolled through a women’s lifestyle website and felt inspired by the content, there is a good chance you have visited Refinery29. It is one of those media brands that feels real, relatable, and a little bold at the same time. For a lot of people who love writing, storytelling, fashion, beauty, or digital media, working at Refinery29 sounds like a dream job. And honestly, that feeling makes complete sense.
I have spoken with a few people who have gone through the process of applying to digital media companies, including Refinery29, and what they always say is that you need more than just passion. You need a strategy, a clear understanding of the brand, and a realistic picture of what the workplace actually looks like. That is exactly what this article is here to help you with. Whether you are a fresh graduate trying to break into media or an experienced professional looking for a new challenge, this guide breaks everything down in a simple, honest, and practical way.
What Is Refinery29?
Refinery29 started back in 2005 as a fashion and shopping guide in New York City. Over the years, it grew into something much bigger. Today, it is one of the most well-known digital media brands for women, covering topics like fashion, beauty, money, health, politics, entertainment, and culture. The brand has a strong point of view and is not afraid to tackle real issues that affect women’s lives every day.
In 2019, Refinery29 merged with Vice Media, which gave it even more resources and a broader global reach. This partnership meant that Refinery29 became part of a larger media ecosystem, with more opportunities for writers, creators, and digital professionals to grow their careers across multiple platforms.
The audience Refinery29 speaks to is primarily millennial and Gen Z women who want content that reflects their real lives, not just glossy, out-of-reach aspirations. This makes the brand unique and gives it a very specific editorial voice that job applicants need to understand before they even think about applying.
Why Work at Refinery29?
There are quite a few reasons why so many media professionals put Refinery29 on their list of dream employers. First and most importantly, the brand has a purpose. It is not just about selling things or attracting clicks. Refinery29 has made a genuine effort to cover stories that matter to women, including financial independence, body positivity, mental health, and social justice. If you care about meaningful storytelling, this kind of mission can feel very motivating on a day-to-day basis.
The company also has a reputation for being a launchpad for talented journalists, editors, and digital creatives. A lot of well-known media professionals have spent time at Refinery29 early in their careers and have gone on to do incredible things. That track record means working there can genuinely open doors.
From a cultural standpoint, Refinery29 has put effort into creating a workplace that reflects its editorial values. That includes diversity, inclusion, and a commitment to amplifying voices that are often underrepresented in mainstream media. Of course, like any workplace, there are things that could always be better, and some former employees have shared mixed reviews on platforms like Glassdoor. But overall, many people describe it as a place where creative work is taken seriously and where you have real opportunities to grow.
Types of Jobs Available at Refinery29
One of the things that surprises people about Refinery29 is how many different kinds of jobs exist within the company. It is not just a place for writers and editors. There are roles across a wide range of departments.
Editorial and Writing Jobs are the most well-known. These include positions like staff writer, senior editor, deputy editor, and features editor. If you love storytelling, journalism, or cultural criticism, these are the roles that will feel most at home to you. Refinery29 editorial staff are responsible for creating content that connects with readers on a personal level, so strong writing skills and cultural awareness are absolutely essential.
Video Production Jobs have become increasingly important as the brand has invested heavily in video content. Roles like video producer, video editor, and director of photography support the creation of everything from short social clips to long-form documentary-style pieces. If you have a background in visual storytelling, there are real opportunities here.
Marketing and Branded Content Jobs exist because, like any media company, Refinery29 needs to generate revenue through partnerships and advertising. Branded content teams work with brands to create sponsored content that still feels authentic to the Refinery29 voice. These jobs require creativity, business understanding, and the ability to work with clients.
Social Media Jobs are a big deal at a brand like Refinery29, where audience engagement on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube is central to the business. Community managers, social media editors, and content strategists all play important roles in keeping the brand active and relevant across platforms.
Technology and Product Jobs exist too, especially since Refinery29 is fundamentally a digital brand. Product managers, UX designers, and developers all support the websites, apps, and tools that power the content experience.
Finally, internships are available for students and recent graduates who want to get a foot in the door. These are highly competitive but can be incredibly valuable for building experience and making connections in the industry.
Where to Find Refinery29 Job Listings
The most reliable place to find official Refinery29 job listings is through the Vice Media careers page, since Refinery29 is part of the Vice Media Group. You can also find listings on LinkedIn, which is one of the most active platforms for media job postings. Setting up job alerts on LinkedIn for terms like “Refinery29 jobs” or “Vice Media jobs” is a smart move because these roles can fill up quickly.
Beyond that, websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Mediabistro regularly list positions at digital media companies like Refinery29. Mediabistro is especially useful because it focuses specifically on media and publishing jobs, so the listings tend to be more targeted.
Networking should not be underestimated either. Following Refinery29 editors and staff on Twitter or LinkedIn, engaging with their work, and building genuine connections in the digital media world can sometimes lead to hearing about opportunities before they are even publicly posted. Industry events, journalism conferences, and media workshops are also great places to meet people who work at companies like Refinery29.
Skills and Qualifications Refinery29 Looks For
Different roles at Refinery29 require different qualifications, but there are some consistent things the company values across the board. Strong communication skills are non-negotiable. Whether you are a writer, a marketer, or a video producer, your ability to express ideas clearly and persuasively will be evaluated carefully.
A deep understanding of Refinery29’s audience and editorial voice is also hugely important. Before you apply for any position, spend real time reading the site, watching their videos, and scrolling their social accounts. Understand what they cover, how they cover it, and who they are trying to reach. This knowledge should come through clearly in your cover letter and during interviews.
For editorial roles, a portfolio of published work is almost always required. Having clips from reputable publications, whether large or small, shows that you can write to a deadline and meet editorial standards. For video roles, a showreel or portfolio of past projects is equally important.
Most positions require at least a bachelor’s degree, though the field of study matters less than your experience and skills. Journalism, communications, English, and media studies are common backgrounds, but many successful Refinery29 employees have come from more unconventional paths.
How to Apply for a Job at Refinery29
Applying for a job at Refinery29 follows a fairly standard process, but there are specific things you can do to make your application stand out. Start by finding the job listing through the official careers page or a job board, and read it very carefully. Make note of the specific skills, responsibilities, and qualifications listed, and use that information to tailor your resume.
Your resume should be clean, easy to read, and focused on relevant experience. For media jobs, less is sometimes more in terms of design. What matters most is that your experience tells a clear story about who you are and what you bring to the role.
Your cover letter is arguably the most important part of your application for creative jobs like the ones at Refinery29. Use it to show that you understand the brand and have a genuine connection to its mission. Avoid generic cover letters at all costs. Write specifically about why Refinery29, why this particular role, and what you would bring to the team that someone else would not.
The interview process at digital media companies like Refinery29 often includes a combination of a phone screen, a skills test or writing assignment, and one or more in-person or video interviews. Prepare by researching the company thoroughly, coming up with examples of your past work and how it connects to the role, and thinking carefully about questions you want to ask them. Asking thoughtful questions shows genuine interest and leaves a strong impression.
Salary and Benefits at Refinery29
Salaries at Refinery29 vary depending on the role, experience level, and department. Based on publicly available data from sources like Glassdoor and LinkedIn, editorial assistants tend to earn around $40,000 to $50,000 per year in New York, while more senior editorial roles can range from $70,000 to well over $100,000 depending on seniority and specialty. Marketing, technology, and product roles often have similar or higher ranges depending on the specific position.
In terms of benefits, media companies like Refinery29 typically offer health insurance, paid time off, and retirement savings plans. Since the brand’s merger with Vice Media, some employees have also reported having access to broader company-wide benefits and resources. Remote and hybrid work arrangements have become more common since the pandemic, so it is worth asking about flexibility during the interview process.
Insider Tips to Stand Out
If you genuinely want to work at Refinery29, there are a few things you can do beyond just submitting a polished resume. Build your own presence in the space. Start a blog, contribute to online publications, or grow a social media account around the topics Refinery29 covers. This shows that you are not just interested in working in media but that you are already living and breathing it.
Be specific about what you love about Refinery29. Generic enthusiasm will not cut it. Mention specific articles, video series, or social campaigns that impressed you and explain why. This level of detail signals that you have done your homework and that your interest is real.
Avoid the common mistake of sending the same resume and cover letter to every company. Tailoring takes more time, but it dramatically increases your chances of being noticed. And once you submit an application, a polite follow-up email a week or two later is completely acceptable and can sometimes make the difference.
Alternatives to Refinery29 Jobs
If your application does not pan out on the first try, do not be discouraged. There are many other great digital media companies with similar cultures and editorial missions. Places like Bustle, Byrdie, Who What Wear, The Cut (part of New York Magazine), Glamour, and Cosmopolitan all offer similar types of roles for people who love women’s lifestyle content. Building experience at one of these companies can also make you a stronger candidate for Refinery29 down the road.
Conclusion
Landing a job at Refinery29 is absolutely possible, but it takes preparation, persistence, and a genuine understanding of what the brand is all about. From knowing where to look for listings to crafting a cover letter that actually sounds like you, every step of the process matters. The media industry is competitive, but companies like Refinery29 are always looking for talented, passionate, and culturally aware people to join their teams. Put in the work, stay authentic, and do not give up if it takes a few tries. The right opportunity will come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does Refinery29 have a careers page?
Yes. Since Refinery29 is part of Vice Media Group, job listings are typically found on the Vice Media careers page as well as on platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed.
2. Is Refinery29 a good company to work for?
Based on employee reviews on Glassdoor and other platforms, many people have had positive experiences working at Refinery29, particularly valuing the creative culture and meaningful editorial mission. Like any company, individual experiences can vary.
3. Does Refinery29 offer internships?
Yes, Refinery29 has offered internship programs in areas like editorial, video, and marketing. These tend to be very competitive, so a strong portfolio and genuine knowledge of the brand are essential.
4. Can I work at Refinery29 remotely?
Remote and hybrid options have become more available in recent years. The best approach is to ask specifically about flexibility during the application or interview process.
5. What kind of writing experience do I need for an editorial job at Refinery29?
For most editorial roles, you will need published clips that demonstrate your writing ability. Experience in digital media, lifestyle journalism, or cultural writing is especially helpful.
6. How long does the Refinery29 hiring process take?
It can vary, but many applicants report that the process from application to offer can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months depending on the role and volume of applicants.
7. What is the starting salary at Refinery29?
Entry-level editorial roles typically start in the range of $40,000 to $50,000 annually in New York, though this can vary based on the specific role and current market conditions.
