Statehouse reporter Job at South Dakota News Watch in Pierre

South Dakota News Watch, a nonprofit, independent news organization, seeks an experienced government and political reporter for the statehouse in Pierre. The beat The successful candidate will lead a new state government and political beat. They will produce compelling, unique stories that clearly explain to South Dakotans the goings-on in all three branches of government and why they should care. That includes during the Legislature, which meets for two months every year. The journalist will also report on the state’s vibrant political scene, which in 2026 includes a gubernatorial and open congressional race, and the state’s three members of Congress, one of whom is Senate Majority Leader John Thune. Stories about Kristi Noem, former South Dakota governor and current Homeland Security secretary, will also be expected as part of the beat. The journalist needed In-depth, investigative and public service storytelling forms the foundation of South Dakota News Watch’s mission to shed light on the issues, concerns and welfare of the state’s residents. The job of statehouse reporter requires a commitment to nonpartisanship, accuracy, fairness and the highest personal and professional ethical standards. It also requires a dogged pursuit of stories that tell South Dakotans something they didn’t know and clearly explain how what happens in Pierre impacts them. Fundamental investigative skills are a must: document and database reporting, source development and interviews that go beyond the surface. The audience Besides South Dakota News Watch’s own platforms (website, email newsletters, social media), its stories are provided at no cost to 100 newspaper, broadcast and online media partners statewide, and many are distributed by The Associated Press. The location Must live in Pierre, work from home and the Capitol, and be available to occasionally travel statewide. Pierre is home to outdoor activities and a highly ranked school district. It’s three hours from Sioux Falls to the east and Rapid City and the Black Hills to the west. Responsibilities Identify and track stories from the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government as well as the state’s political scene Write focused, compelling, unique stories that are accurate and fair and include real people who are impacted by the subject Produce investigations that examine major issues in the state and explore solutions File and track local, state and federal document requests and conduct in-depth research using public records, court documents, interviews and online databases Earn the trust of, foster and maintain relationships with confidential news sources from a variety of backgrounds, industries and regions of the state Conduct unbiased and ethical reporting and remain impartial while asking probing questions Excellent organizational ability to prioritize and work on several stories at once Knowledge of AP Stylebook Able to analyze data in spreadsheets and identify storylines Professional appearance, demeanor and behavior Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or higher At least three years of reporting experience with a knack for breaking news through investigations Already have a social media following, use it to promote stories and engage with readers, and be comfortable creating social videos and discussing the beat on television and radio Able to gather photos and videos/audio with an iPhone Able to quickly file shorter stories and go deeper on subjects when needed Ethics that align with the Society of Professional Journalists A nimble, innovative mindset and willingness to share ideas that help the organization adapt to a changing media landscape Reports to CEO Schedule Weekdays with some weekends and travel; flexible to accommodate personal or family responsibilities Benefits Salary of $65,000 or more, depending on experience Paid Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield high-deductible health plan and HealthEquity health savings account with buy-up option to traditional copay and family plans Paid vision insurance $25,000 of life insurance / $50,000 for accidental death or dismemberment 401(k) plan with employer match of up to 3.5% Eight paid holidays and 15 days paid time off that increases over time About South Dakota News Watch Unlike local traditional and new media organizations that cover the top news of the day, South Dakota News Watch instead goes deep on important statewide issues, uses solutions journalism to go beyond just identifying problems and verifies trending claims through fact briefs. Its reporting explains complex topics relevant to people and policymakers. And it uses scientific polling, public forums and other tools to explore what’s on the minds of South Dakotans. Discrimination policy South Dakota News Watch is dedicated to reflecting the people it covers. It is an equal‑opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age or any other status protected under applicable law. Deadline and how to apply Dec. 5, 2025; submit a PDF of resume and work samples to CEO Carson Walker at carson.walker@sdnewswatch.org #J-18808-Ljbffr