KWTV Helicopter Video Journalist

Job Summary
As a Helicopter Video Journalist, you will shoot and transmit aerial video of news, sports, and severe weather events displaying awareness of the elements of good photojournalism. You will ride in the station’s newsgathering helicopter and operate its onboard camera and transmitter system. You will produce and edit videos for television, station websites and social media. You may fill in as a photojournalist or newscast editor if the helicopter is unavailable.

Job Responsibilities

Operate the onboard camera and transmitter to broadcast aerials of news, sports and weather events.

Record sound and pictures on video for broadcasts and all digital platforms, displaying awareness of the elements of good photojournalism.

Apply editing skills for stories. Organize video for broadcasting and all digital platforms. Avoid potential technical problems. Work with other departments to ensure smooth presentation.

Write news copy and travel to news scenes to cover stories as needed. Maintain awareness of current events.

Use social media as part of daily story telling.

Stay in contact with Assignment Desk throughout shift.

Organize video for news broadcasts.

Maintain operational status of assigned equipment.

The Helicopter Video Journalist assists the pilot in looking for other aircraft and hazards and points those out to the pilot. While on the ground, the HVJ watches for people approaching the aircraft and notifies the pilot.

The HVJ may need to exit the helicopter while blades are in motion to assist in providing ground safety. When departing or approaching the helicopter, always approach and depart in front of the helicopter where the pilot can see you.

The HVJ should keep all equipment brought on board secured in flight.

Perform other job‑related duties as assigned, including driving an automobile for company business.

Job Schedule
This is a full-time position primarily working 40 hours per week. You may also be called upon at times to fill in other hours and days of the week to help cover vacations, illnesses, breaking news, severe weather, or special projects/events. This position is not eligible to work remotely. Travel without advance notice is possible.

Qualifications
Essential Qualities

Humble: A habit of sharing successes, putting the team first, and working for the good of the team. A “we” not “me” attitude. The ability to give and receive constructive criticism. Observe and employ the Golden Rule.

Hungry: Exhibit a strong work ethic, drive, and willingness to take initiative.

Smart (People Smart): The virtue of being interpersonally smart about the interactions and relationships of those you encounter.

Positive Attitude: Exhibited by focusing on opportunities not problems, seeing the glass as half-full not half-empty.

Sense of Urgency: How we react and respond.

Skills And Requirements

Minimum two years college or trade school with emphasis on Radio/TV or Journalism. Related experience will be evaluated by Company management and may be substituted on the basis of two years of experience equals one year of education.

Minimum two years news photography experience at a network affiliate.

Must be able to operate all editing and recording equipment. Knowledge of Avid non‑linear editing preferred.

Willingness to adapt to ever changing technology and an evolving newsroom.

Knowledge of journalistic standards necessary and ability to perform appropriately on camera.

Accurate and comprehensive writing, shooting, and editing skills as well as good communication skills.

Ability to work well with others and a willingness to help others when the need arises in all aspects of newsgathering.

Ability to work with a reporter or alone in the field to capture the story under tight deadlines.

Creative and passionate storyteller with an understanding of the National Press Photographers Association philosophies and practices.

The HVJ must be proficient at operating all ENG equipment on board and should ensure all necessary tasks are properly executed.

The HVJ should be proficient at operating the intercom system.

Must have, or be able to obtain, a valid Oklahoma driver’s license and have a driving record acceptable to the company.

Ability to perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Capable of handling the physical and mental requirements including:

Ability to verbally communicate in English

Ability to read computer monitor information (words and data)

Ability to hear detailed spoken word

Ability to remain sedentary and to travel to work location

Ability to perform manual dexterity tasks with hands, fingers

Ability to analyze data, concentrate, reason, and write

Ability to perform under emotional stress

Ability to work rotating shifts and be on 24‑hour call

Ability to lift 50 pounds unaided regularly

Ability to ride in the aircraft without getting nauseous, disoriented or physically ill

Ability to be in a confined space (the aircraft cabin) for extended periods of time

Ability to adhere to weight restrictions of the aircraft (200 pounds or less)

Ability to have 20/20 corrected vision

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

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