Multimedia Journalist

Multimedia Journalist

The main function of the Multimedia Journalist will be to conduct research and write/report news for GV Wire (and other publications as needed). Will develop stories on a variety of topics with local, regional and national appeal. This includes politics, economy, environment, social issues, lifestyle and human-interest stories. The ideal candidate will have the ability to work independently under general supervision, strong writing and research skills, sound news judgment, insatiable curiosity, exceptional research and communication skills, outstanding work ethic and integrity. Video is an essential platform for telling our stories, therefore, an ideal candidate will have shooting and editing experience and the drive to expand their skills in a fast-paced environment.

Essential Functions/Accountabilities:

• Strong writing and detailed editing skills. Solid understanding of AP style;
• Gathering information that may not be easily accessible about issues/events through research, interviews, experience, or attendance at political, news, sports, artistic, social and other functions;
• Interviewing people in a range of different circumstances;
• Checking reference materials, such as books, news files, or public records, to obtain relevant facts;
• Building contacts to maintain a flow of news: contacts should include, but are not limited to sources in local government and community groups, along with press officers from a variety of organizations, and the general public;
• Seeking out and investigating stories via contacts, press releases and other media;
• Attending news conferences, city council meetings, etc., and asking questions;
• Staying informed on current events and reacting to breaking news stories on the company's behalf as necessary;
• Working closely with a marketing team, including photographers and editors;
• Producing concise and accurate copy according to approved style guidelines and meeting strict deadlines – there may be several per day;
• Writing short 'fillers' to entertain, and researching and writing longer feature articles, sometimes for external publications;
• Creating and uploading news content for the website, including attaching images and streaming video;
• Utilizing social media reporting or real-time blogging when covering important events;
• Familiarity with key local players, including elected officials, business leaders and notable community figures;
• Ability to use Adobe Creative Suite and/or other software for video editing and to create graphics, charts, collages, and other images that illustrate concepts for stories.

Competencies:

• Excellent English grammar and writing;
• Research and investigate with integrity;
• Video technology including videography and editing skills.

Supervisory Responsibility:

• None

Work Environment:

• This job operates in the field and within the professional office environment. This role routinely uses a vehicle to transport between sites and is frequently exposed to various environmental conditions. This position will transport and operate video and photography equipment of various sizes and types. While in the professional office environment, this position utilizes standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines. The noise level in the work environment can be loud due to an open office environment. Movement of people and objects in and around workspaces is common.

Physical Demands:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands and fingers to handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

• This is a full time at will position, and work hours are typically Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required as department needs demand.

Travel:

• Travel is primarily local within the city of Fresno and Clovis. Some out-of-the-area and overnight travel may be expected.

Work Authorization:

• Must be eligible to work in the United States

Minimum Requirements:

• Minimum 3 years of multimedia journalism experience.
• College degree in journalism, political science, or related degree; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated experience in shooting, writing, editing and on-air presentation skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced and deadline-driven environment.
• A valid California driver's license and auto insurance