Politics Reporter

About the job Politics Reporter


The Post and Courier, South Carolina's premier news source, is seeking a dynamic and driven politics reporter to provide in-depth coverage of local and state politics, as well as the state's congressional delegation when warranted.

You should have a track record of knowing how to break news a beat and the ability to analyze the political currents in South Carolina and deliver compelling, well-written stories. Our reporters are expected to emphasize digital storytelling and audience engagement as a priority, with our content also feeding print needs.

This position is based in our flagship newsroom in Charleston. You will work closely with our reporters who cover state government and political matters and are based in Columbia, the state capital.

You will need to be equally adept at covering breaking news and developing strong enterprise that is exclusive to The Post and Courier.

The Post and Courier is a privately held newspaper that values its relationship with readers, believing in the idea that investing in original, high-value journalism will lead to subscriber growth and a sustainable business. We have built out newsrooms throughout the state, seeking to fill a void in news deserts and areas where local news coverage has dramatically shrunk.

If you are the right fit for this role, you will join a Pulitzer Prize-winning newsroom where reporters have the opportunity to do some of the best work of their careers, limited only by their ambition and curiosity.

Requirements, minimum education level, and experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism or another field if you have journalism experience.
• At least 2 years of full-time newsroom experience (although we will consider candidates with significant fellowship/internship experience who demonstrate very high skills and potential).
• A track record of producing exemplary journalism.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills associated with developing effective working relationships.
• Strong prioritization skills with excellent follow-through.
• High-level reporting and writing skills.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Digital skills : Must work effectively in a digital-focused news operation, with a clear grasp of best SEO practices and an eagerness to promote work in social platforms and off platform.
• Accuracy and ethics: Produce work that is accurate and fair. Understand libel and privacy issues.
• Communication : Work well with editors and reporters across disciplines. Discuss original and assigned story ideas. Participate in brainstorming sessions to develop detailed and realistic story ideas.
• Organizational skills : Develop a systematic approach to managing a beat and meeting deadlines.
• Creative approach : Develop smart, engaging story ideas and varied approaches to telling stories, including formats outside of narrative or explanatory storytelling.
• Flexibility: React to change productively and handle duties as assigned.