Statesman Journal / Gannett
Government Reporter
Statesman Journal / Gannett, Fayetteville, North Carolina, United States, 28305
Government Reporter – Statesman Journal / Gannett
We are searching for a curious, skilled, and persistent reporter to cover local government in Cumberland County, North Carolina. This role requires explanatory, enterprise, and investigative reporting focused on government agencies, institutions, and public accountability.
Responsibilities
Creates storytelling that accurately informs and engages specific audiences.
Works toward becoming the community’s leading voice in the area of expertise.
Writes both quick‑turn stories on news of the day and in‑depth enterprise stories and long‑term investigations.
Plans and executes engagement opportunities to reach audiences through content, community events, and social media.
Connects with the community through outreach and engagement (social media, forums, community leadership, etc.).
Collaborates with content team to provide appropriate elements for stories (photos, videos, graphics).
Produces basic photos and video as needed.
Promotes personal brand, the brands of colleagues, and the institution.
Provides great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.
Requirements
Bachelor’s or master’s degree in communications, journalism, or related field (preferred) or equivalent combination of education and experience.
1+ years of professional experience; strong college work will be considered.
Experience with public records is required.
Database or computer‑assisted reporting skills will set applicants apart.
Demonstrated ability to prioritize, self‑start, multitask, contribute and excel under pressure.
Strong command of AP grammar and style.
Strong copy‑editing skills and ability to produce clean, publication‑ready content.
Passion for news and content that works well on social platforms.
Comfortable using social media such as Twitter/X, Facebook, and Instagram to enhance reporting and promote stories.
Understands reporting ethics and sourcing.
Excels in a fast‑paced news environment and understands the digital‑first mission.
Works weekends and nights as needed.
Collaborates well with others and can work with a team on the biggest stories.
Familiarity with AI and automation to enhance journalism.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation, minimum liability insurance required by state law.
Employment contingent on passing a pre‑employment background check, motor‑vehicle record check, and urinalysis drug screen (for driving roles only).
How to Apply Put together a single PDF document that includes the following items in order:
Your resume – one to two pages.
Cover letter outlining how you would approach the job.
Links to 3–6 online samples of your work.
Upload the PDF to the application portal. Providing these items in a single document will give your application the highest consideration.
Equal Opportunity Employer USA TODAY Co., Inc. is a proud equal opportunity employer committed to building and maintaining a diverse workforce. We consider all qualified applicants for employment and do not discriminate in connection with employment decisions on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship status, sex, gender, gender identity, religion, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy status, education, genetic characteristics or information, political affiliation, military or veteran status, or other classifications protected by applicable laws.
Applicants who require reasonable accommodation may contact the Recruitment Department at Recruit@usatodayco.com. Applicants must be authorized to work in the applicable location.
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Responsibilities
Creates storytelling that accurately informs and engages specific audiences.
Works toward becoming the community’s leading voice in the area of expertise.
Writes both quick‑turn stories on news of the day and in‑depth enterprise stories and long‑term investigations.
Plans and executes engagement opportunities to reach audiences through content, community events, and social media.
Connects with the community through outreach and engagement (social media, forums, community leadership, etc.).
Collaborates with content team to provide appropriate elements for stories (photos, videos, graphics).
Produces basic photos and video as needed.
Promotes personal brand, the brands of colleagues, and the institution.
Provides great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.
Requirements
Bachelor’s or master’s degree in communications, journalism, or related field (preferred) or equivalent combination of education and experience.
1+ years of professional experience; strong college work will be considered.
Experience with public records is required.
Database or computer‑assisted reporting skills will set applicants apart.
Demonstrated ability to prioritize, self‑start, multitask, contribute and excel under pressure.
Strong command of AP grammar and style.
Strong copy‑editing skills and ability to produce clean, publication‑ready content.
Passion for news and content that works well on social platforms.
Comfortable using social media such as Twitter/X, Facebook, and Instagram to enhance reporting and promote stories.
Understands reporting ethics and sourcing.
Excels in a fast‑paced news environment and understands the digital‑first mission.
Works weekends and nights as needed.
Collaborates well with others and can work with a team on the biggest stories.
Familiarity with AI and automation to enhance journalism.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation, minimum liability insurance required by state law.
Employment contingent on passing a pre‑employment background check, motor‑vehicle record check, and urinalysis drug screen (for driving roles only).
How to Apply Put together a single PDF document that includes the following items in order:
Your resume – one to two pages.
Cover letter outlining how you would approach the job.
Links to 3–6 online samples of your work.
Upload the PDF to the application portal. Providing these items in a single document will give your application the highest consideration.
Equal Opportunity Employer USA TODAY Co., Inc. is a proud equal opportunity employer committed to building and maintaining a diverse workforce. We consider all qualified applicants for employment and do not discriminate in connection with employment decisions on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship status, sex, gender, gender identity, religion, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy status, education, genetic characteristics or information, political affiliation, military or veteran status, or other classifications protected by applicable laws.
Applicants who require reasonable accommodation may contact the Recruitment Department at Recruit@usatodayco.com. Applicants must be authorized to work in the applicable location.
#J-18808-Ljbffr