Reporter
Under general direction, develops sources, gathers information and writes news and feature articles that are accurate, informative, balanced and entertaining. Produces material – often under tight deadline pressure and constraints – in a manner that meets the highest journalistic standards.
Key activities
- Identifies and develops news, feature and enterprise stories of interest relevant to the lives of our readers, a detailed understanding of the community and stories published, while also monitoringcompeting media (newspapers, online, radio and television) to ensure the newspaper maintains a competitive advantage.
- Develops a network of formal and informal sources throughout the community to help develop and write stories as well as providing background information.
- Consults frequently with editors on stories. Stays on top of developing and continuing stories.
- Writes stories, often under deadline pressure, always striving to be fair, thorough and accurate and using correct grammar and style.
- Ensure accuracy through checking facts gathered via on line information services and internet.
- Meets established deadlines.
- Suggests photos and graphics to make stories compelling and clearly explain the news.
- Cooperates to cover breaking news.
- Backs up other reporters on their beats and writes assigned stories for special sections and publications.
- Contributes through constructive criticism to the improvement of the editorial product especially the writing.
- Demonstrates an in-depth working knowledge of the theories and applications of professional journalism and a basic command of the English language to include the ability to spell correctly, write clearly and exercise proper use of grammar, such as typically acquired in earning a Bachelors degree, preferably in journalism, or equivalent professional newspaper experience. 2 – 5 years experience in designated field.
- Demonstrates effective and diplomatic oral and written communication skills. Demonstrates knowledge of computers and ability.
- Knowledge of libel laws as well as state and federal laws regarding open meetings, open records and access to information, sufficient to direct quality editorial coverage and make legally-sound decisions on publication of content.
- Must maintain valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, company required auto insurance and an acceptable driving record.
Work environment
- Sitting for prolonged periods of time while inputting into and working at computer (making continuous use of near vision), driving to assignments and covering events.
- Stamina to work varied shifts and extended periods of time at the keyboard.
- Dexterity to type on a computer.
- Ability to concentrate for long periods of time.
- Mobility to travel to, and cover, events outside the newspaper.
- Communicate by phone and in person.
- Observe events and situations that are subjects of stories.
- Frequent walking while attending events.
- Occasional climbing up stairs, bending, stooping, crouching, kneeling, reaching, turning, twisting, pushing and pulling.
- The ability to speak and hear and use a full range of vision.
- Withstand fluctuations in temperature in covering events outside the newspaper.
To apply, visit https://www.scripps.apply2jobs.com/ProfExt/index.cfm?fuseaction=mExternal.showJob&RID=5813&CurrentPage=18.
