Service Journalism Reporter Job at McClatchy in Boise

Overview

McClatchy Media is seeking an audience-focused journalist to join the Idaho Statesman newsroom as a service journalism reporter. The reporter will be based in Boise, Idaho, joining a reporting group that is team-oriented and focused on reaching readers and telling the region’s stories. The service journalism reporter focuses on utility journalism with a mission to help local readers navigate day-to-day life, using explainers, Q&As and fact checks, and contributing to local and regional news and breaking coverage. The role requires crafting stories based on local users’ needs and interests, engaging readers and sources online and in person.

The reporter will write frequently, welcoming daily assignments and also pitching their own ideas, finding stories and questions in every corner of the community, online and in person. Service journalists explore city curiosities as well as topical discussions on sites such as Nextdoor and Reddit. This role emphasizes teamwork and the willingness to learn audience development skills, such as digital headline writing and Google Trends.

McClatchy Media’s journalists are encouraged to ethically harness AI and other automation to enhance work and find efficiencies that free time for source-building and high-quality, deeply reported journalism.

We cover a broad range of topics and share a sample of recent team stories below for context.

• What is Boise’s air quality today? See real-time updates here as wildfires affect Idaho
• These 5 new Idaho laws just went into effect. Here’s what to know
• This is the deadliest route in Idaho. It\'s a popular, well-traveled road north of Boise
• Boise gas prices are up 21 cents in a week. Experts weigh in on what’s ahead

Responsibilities

• Live within 35 miles of Boise City Hall.
• Pitch stories that are off the beaten track and resonate with readers across the region.
• Report and write stories quickly in user-friendly formats.
• Find questions the community is asking and determine the answers.
• Collaborate with other journalists across the newsroom on major news events and local happenings.
• Demonstrate versatility, initiative and SEO savvy.
• Work in a team environment, both virtually and in person.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of reporting or writing experience.
• A college degree or work equivalent.
• Strong reporting and writing skills with the ability to identify stories that matter to readers.
• Flexibility and speed to respond to evolving news events and user needs.
• Excellent news judgment and journalism ethics.
• A passion for utility journalism that helps readers in daily life.
• A track record of community engagement and audience-centered reporting.
• Willingness to do multimedia storytelling, including recording vertical video.
• Familiarity with Google Trends, social media platforms, public records requests and data.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Familiarity with measuring and tracking success using metrics and analytics.
• A willingness to cover a variety of topics.
• A track record for innovation, learning and using new skills and technologies, especially AI.
• Must have reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license with appropriate vehicle insurance for the state of employment.

What we’ll bring

As a journalist at McClatchy, you will join a supportive, flexible, collaborative team. Our benefits package focuses on health, well-being, wealth and daily life, including healthcare coverage for employees and their families, financial protection, wellness resources, and coverage for pets. The package also includes a 401(k) with employer match, competitive paid time off, corporate holidays and mental health benefits. For more information on McClatchy’s benefit plan, please visit McClatchyLivewell.com.

Boise offers a high quality of life with outdoor recreation, arts, and a vibrant downtown with shopping, dining and cultural events.

To apply

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and 3-6 work samples for full consideration. References may be requested.

About the McClatchy Media Company

The McClatchy Media Company features a portfolio of news, lifestyle and entertainment brands with a robust distribution network. Our brands reach more than 100 million unique visitors a month. The McClatchy Retail Network offers delivery to thousands of locations weekly.

Salary/Compensation: $44,740 - $52,000 per year