Overview
Public Safety / Local Government Reporter for the Abilene Reporter-News / reporternetnews.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, covering West Texas. The role focuses on breaking news, crime, courts and city and county government, with opportunities for enterprise reporting and in-depth coverage of local government and public safety issues.
Responsibilities
- Create content (articles, videos, photos and social media posts) about local news that accurately informs, entertains and engages key audiences and platforms.
- Provide in-person coverage of events and meetings, and conduct in-person interviews.
- Provide thoughtful, in-depth coverage of complex issues.
- Work toward becoming the community’s leading voice for news and issues in Abilene.
- Plan and execute engagement opportunities to reach audiences through content, community events and social media.
- Collaborate with the editor to evaluate what_s working and develop ongoing plans to better satisfy audience needs.
- Collaborate with the content team to provide all elements for stories (photos, videos, graphics).
- Promote personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.
- Provide great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.
- Perform other duties as necessary.
Requirements
Bachelor_s degree in communications, journalism, marketing or related field preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.1-2 years’ reporting experience, including freelancing, internships, and college publication work.Adept at taking photos and video and the ability to file quickly across platforms : mobile, desktop and social media.Strong command of grammar and copy-editing skills; ability to produce clean, accurate, publication-ready content.Passionate and enthusiastic about news and content suitable for social platforms.Comfortable in fluid, fast-breaking, stressful situations and willing to grow key beats in the newsroom.Comfortable using social media (Twitter / X, Facebook, Instagram, Reddit) to enhance reporting and promote stories.Understands reporting ethics and sourcing; excels in a fast-paced digital-first environment.Ability to collaborate with others and work with a team on major stories.Willing to work extended hours, evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and minimum liability insurance required by state law.Application Instructions
We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, include a single document file that combines : your resume (1–2 pages); a cover letter outlining how you would approach the job; links to 3–6 online samples of your work. Assemble items into a single PDF for submission.
Gannett Co., Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to building and maintaining a diverse workforce. We will consider all qualified applicants and do not discriminate in employment decisions on protected characteristics. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations should contact Recruit@gannett.com.
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