News Reporter

The Bemidji Pioneer is seeking a general assignments reporter with an emphasis on local government and human interest stories in the Bemidji region. While experience is preferred, a candidate’s drive, interest and willingness to learn are the main things required for this position.

Essential Functions

Research and craft compelling stories that adhere to editorial and AP style and format standards for publication across both print and digital platforms - following leads and responding quickly to breaking news.

Find, research, and tell stories tailored to the editor’s needs and target audience.

Stay up to date on the latest current events - local politics, public safety and education topics, community events, and more.

Become an active part of the local and surrounding communities, developing sources and partnerships as a trusted source of information.

Contact and interview sources, and research tips and leads.

Displaying sound editorial judgements, including a thorough understanding and application of the law, relevant codes of practice, and ethical principles.

Drive audience loyalty and digital growth through engaging and timely content, developing unique story ideas and content around key categories that drive digital memberships and reader engagement.

Collaborate with digital teams and make use of available tools and technology to gain insight into story metrics, determining new ways to create and present content online.

Embrace a creative, collaborative approach with other team members and with other FCC departments and locations.

Contribute to the overall advancement of digital initiatives; share and promote digital content through various social media channels.

Maintain prompt and reliable attendance.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Mass Communications, or a related field preferred, or equivalent professional reporting/writing experience.

Writing experience for a newspaper, website, magazine or specialty publication is preferred, but not required. AP Style knowledge is a plus.

Basic photography and photo editing experience is preferred.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with community members and business leaders alike.

Strong news judgment and the ability to identify compelling story angles that resonate with local audiences.

Ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines and organize multiple assignments, while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail using a Web-based content management system.

Familiarity with digital publishing tools, social media platforms, audience engagement strategies, and digital analytics/digital tools is a plus.

Willingness and ability to work flexible hours as the news happens, including evenings and weekends as needed, based on coverage needs.

Must possess a valid driver’s license and a driving record that is insurable by the company.

Must carry an acceptable level of vehicle insurance as required by the company.

Benefits

Health, dental, and vision packages

Paid maternity and parental leave

Company-paid short-term disability and life insurance

Additional options for critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity coverage

Retirement benefits with company match

Generous PTO and paid volunteer hours

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. FCC currently does not offer employer sponsorship.

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