Political MSJ

The Political Multi-Skilled Journalist is a self-starter who can work independently on reporting on California political news that ranges across topics. The successful candidate will be a well-rounded journalist who can develop sources inside political circles. Candidate will research investigate shoot and edit news materials interview persons both on and off camera interact with policy makers and business leaders and be able to present dynamic news reports either live on-air or in a pre-recorded format. This position will be based in Sacramento and will cover the state Capitol and various issues that impact the citizens of California.

The Political MSJ will enterprise story ideas follow leads and conceptualize a story from beginning to end including vetting viewer emails and phone calls to develop enterprise stories for both KFMB and KXTV the San Diego and Sacramento TEGNA stations. This position requires a thorough understanding of all journalistic standards and broadcast production techniques used to create visual and compelling content for newscasts. Strong writing on-air presentation and social media skills are required. Responsible for producing daily enterprise stories as well as long-form stories for major ratings periods; use public records requests and FOIA to obtain information; use databases to research statistics and facts; gather and verify facts through interviews and research.

Responsibilities:

• Gather and report news. This includes generating story ideas writing and/or producing packages for air and digital platforms and reporting news live on-air and/or in a pre-recorded format. Work closely with News Managers at both stations news producers and other newsroom employees on story conception and development and the execution of the story.
• Develop and cultivate sources for newsgathering purposes.
• Political MSJ may also cover big breaking stories as needed. Will also participate daily in reporting news on social media channels and digital platforms.
• Must have a working knowledge of broadcast production equipment including operating a camera and using non-linear editing software along with other communication equipment (intercom systems microphones newsroom computer system cellular telephones laptop computers etc.) May be required to drive the station vehicle to assignments. Requires some physical activity as the reporter will spend time outside in the field and may be required to stand for long periods of time and/or walk climb stairs etc.
• The primary work environment is in the newsroom and in the field. Time is also spent in the actual studio if/when assigned to deliver reports from the studio. While reporting this position will spend significant time outside of the station on various assignments. They may also be assigned to report from out-of-town locations which will require traveling by car or airplane. All assignments are subject to weather conditions (hot cold rain etc.) and other unpredictable conditions (e.g. large crowds police situations hostile interview subjects etc.). As we cannot predict what will occur on any assignment reporters and their co-workers in the field are instructed to notify management if they feel any threat to their safety or the safety of station equipment. In-house working conditions include studio/control room settings with temperatures ranging from 55 degrees (studio) to 75 degrees.
• Proven ability to shoot edit and present news either live or recorded for broadcast online and other digital platforms. The reporter must be able to research thoroughly write clearly in broadcast style and present finished stories in a professional and engaging manner for on-air or online broadcasts. Strong writing and producing skills are essential. Ability to pitch and break report stories.
• Ability to contribute ideas daily and to recognize what types of stories would make for interesting and compelling television. Ability to adapt to a fast-paced quickly changing environment and to react in live situations to cover breaking news etc. Ability to establish and maintain harmonious relationships with peers and superiors and develop contacts outside the building to aid in newsgathering.

Requirements:

• Bachelors degree in journalism or related field required.
• Minimum 3 years as a reporter and/or a body of work that demonstrates political reporting experience. Must be able to meet aggressive deadlines while still completing high-quality stories.
• Desired Characteristics
  Looking for a candidate who excels at breaking down complex information and making it interesting and accessible to our audiences.
  Must be able to find story angles that capture the days news but pushes to issues that resonate with viewers well beyond the days headlines.
  The ideal candidate will have strong storytelling skills and an ability to edit and present material in an interesting and compelling way.
  Political stories do not have to be boringthe topics impact real people! We want to know how. We are looking for an engaging on-air talent who can both ask the tough questions of our politicians but also be able to present material and tell real people stories in a style that relates to our viewers.
• Must have a valid drivers license and a clean driving record.

Pay Range

$28.86 - $33.66 USD