Government Impact Reporter
Req #25838
Our current portfolio of media assets includes USA TODAY, local media organizations in 46 states in the U.S., and Newsquest, a wholly owned subsidiary operating in the United Kingdom with more than 120 local news media brands. Gannett also owns the digital marketing services companies ReachLocal, Inc., UpCurve, Inc., and WordStream, Inc., which are marketed under the LOCALiQ brand, and runs the largest media-owned events business in the U.S., USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures.
To connect with us, visit www.gannett.com.
The Pensacola News Journal/pnj.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking a self-motivated reporter to educate our community on the impacts of our growing community, from the environmental considerations of new roads and infrastructure, to the myriad ways community members’ everyday lives are impacted by the decisions made by local government. Focus areas for the Santa Rosa County Government Impact Reporter include traffic and construction, infrastructure, affordable housing, economic development, quality of life, and our recreational outdoors. Our community is undergoing explosive growth particularly across the once rural areas of Santa Rosa County, which is both exciting and nerve-racking for longtime residents who relish the unofficial title of “Florida’s Best Kept Secret.” The ideal reporter is driven by the desire to get answers to community questions, to help them secure a seat at the table and in community discussions. They are not motivated by what is written on a government agenda.
Candidates must have a strong understanding and usage of social media, investigative skills and an ability to create deep sources in the growth and development industries. The ideal candidate will be an experienced reporter who can connect with people in the community as well as local leaders and be able to provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues. Strong storytelling is a must.
This reporter will file quick stories on new developments and decisions, but also will develop explanatory, narrative and watchdog stories that shed light on how these decisions and actions impact the daily lives of residents.
The Santa Rosa County Government Impact Reporter will use alternative story formats, social media, video and other tools to replace or supplement traditional story forms. The reporter also will use metrics to understand what’s resonating with readers and will be willing to experiment and innovate to reach new audiences. Duties include writing compelling headlines and employing SEO best practices to draw in readers.
Responsibilities:
- Use metrics and analytics to determine how to best reach and grow the audience.
- Increase digital audience and engagement and grow digital subscriptions.
- Be courageous about experimentation.
- Be a team player who likes to collaborate with coworkers.
- Apply innovative, creative thinking to support the company’s goals.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's or master’s in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience. We will also consider candidates with strong internships.
- Two years of experience in professional journalism writing and reporting.
- Understanding of metrics, social media and SEO.
- Solid news judgment.
- Self-motivation and self-direction.
- Top-notch planning, organizational and time-management skills.
- Ability to multi-task and excel under intense deadline pressure in a rapidly changing environment.
- Command of media law and principles of ethical conduct.
- This role requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
- Employment is contingent on passing a post-offer pre-employment background check, motor vehicle record check & drug screen.
How to Apply We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don’t limit your upload to a resume; show us what you’ve done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order: • Your resume – one to two pages. • A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job. • Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what you’ve produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role. It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.
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Other details
- Job Family Frontline Journalists
- Job Function Consumer
- Pay Type Hourly