Reporter- Albany News Bureau

Job Description

 
JOB DESCRIPTION
POSITION: Reporter, Albany News Bureau
LOCATION: Albany, New York
DIVISION: News
CLASSIFICATION: Full-time, Exempt
REPORTS TO: Executive Editor, with dotted line to News Director
 
SUMMARY: We’re looking for a multimedia journalist who has solid writing and reporting skills, an entrepreneurial approach to news gathering, and an understanding of state government and key issues.
 
This journalist should be an expert on their beat and be capable of filing daily stories on multiple platforms, while also developing longer-term enterprise work.
 
They should be able to break news, cultivate a deep network of sources who contribute to exclusive stories, and meet deadlines. They should be able to identify and pursue angles that go beyond the headlines and focus on how New Yorkers across the state are affected by policy decisions. Timeliness, accuracy, fairness and clarity are of paramount importance.
 
This is not an entry-level reporting position. This reporter should be as comfortable working independently as collaboratively.
 
This reporter will be part of the New York Public News Network, a coalition of 13 newsrooms across the state, and will play a key role in helping to execute a statewide strategy to serve audiences in communities of all sizes. This person will work collaboratively with other public media journalists in covering the Capitol and how key policy decisions affect different communities. You may also have an opportunity to report for NPR.
 
This job is not remote and is based in Albany, the capital of New York state.
 
 
 
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS – TIME ON TASK
 Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:    
 
EDITORIAL FUNCTIONS – 85%
 

• Supply member stations and NPR with well-organized and thought-out daily and weekly coverage plans.
• Follow newsroom protocol by entering detailed story pitches in Airtable.
• In collaboration with other NYPNN statehouse reporters, report news of statewide interest, including but not limited to the state budget process, significant legislation, programs and activities of the governor and key legislators, and the accountability of state agencies.
• Work with editor(s) to determine deadlines for stories. Any roadblocks to meeting those deadlines should be promptly communicated to editor(s).
• Produce audio stories on tight deadlines with minimal editing and share on available platforms. This reporter should be able to use sound to explain complex concepts and topics.
• With an understanding of the digital audience's different needs, write clear, focused digital stories that include additional information, such as data, that doesn’t necessarily translate to audio. This reporter should understand the importance of SEO and write headlines that maximize the story's reach and engagement.
• Take photos and video for digital stories, and work with editors to build infographics when appropriate. Share digital content with other newsrooms.
• Help create social media posts with the digital team at WXXI.
• As a secondary priority, be alert to news stories of specific import to the individual member stations. As possible, provide tips, research, raw tape, and/or coverage of those stories for the member stations.
• In conjunction with the WXXI Executive Editor, develop the annual budget for the bureau.
• In consultation with the WXXI News Director, determine technical and operational needs of the bureau; develop and implement strategies for meeting those needs.

 
COLLABORATIVE FUNCTIONS – 10%  

• Attend weekly statewide editorial meetings.
• Attend daily planning meetings with editors and other NYPNN statehouse reporters.
• Work collaboratively with external and internal partners on special projects such as citizen engagement initiatives, election night coverage, and major breaking news events.
• Participate in station membership drives and various station activities, as needed.

 
ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS – 5%  

• Appear on air as needed, including reporter roundtables on radio and television.
• Represent WXXI and NYPNN externally, as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

  
SALARY/BENEFITS
$70,000 to $85,000, commensurate with experience. Competitive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, and vacation/sick pay.
 
WXXI is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. This policy expressly prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, creed, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, genetic predisposition, gender identity or expression, carrier status, domestic violence victim status, veteran status or status as a member of any other protected group or activity.    

Job Requirements

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications or related field, or equivalent experience.
• At least 3 years of journalism experience.
• Ability to work independently.
• Strong writing and communication skills.
• Thorough knowledge of journalistic principles, ethics and standards.
• Commitment to the mission and goals of public broadcasting.
• Ability to produce content across multiple platforms, including audio, digital, social media, and video/television.
• Valid driver’s license or immediate access to reliable transportation.
• Willingness to relocate to Albany, NY.

 
PREFERRED

• Experience in public media journalism.
• Experience covering politics/state government.
• Audio editing/production experience.
• Ability to work independently on multiple projects.

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