Government Reporter

The Fayetteville Observer/ part of theUSA TODAY NETWORKis searching foracuriousskilledand persistent reporterto cover local government on behalf of the residents of Cumberland County North Carolina with a focus reporter will find and tell compelling stories that explore government agencies and institutions to ensure that they are meeting their responsibilities to the public. This reporter should becomfortablehumanizing data as well as considering the social justice ramifications of local government decisions whether by action or is a job that goes beyond day-to-daymeeting coveringtoidentifytrends and hot is a job where the reporter willidentifytrends and hot topics pivot between differenttopicsand consistently produce content that resonates with our current readers and helps us grow our reporter must be attuned to political trends alliances and influence in polarizing times and deliver coverage that holds public officials accountable and helps readers make informed decisions about their a reporter with strong writing skills who can produce insightful journalism that makes a connection with readers. The reporter will act as a public ambassador through community outreach and will connect with readers through social analyses of complex issues and produce watchdog journalism that leads to need a reporter whoisntafraid to askhardquestionsanddoesntsettle forlimits set by PIO and inclusion are central to our reporting and we need a reporter who shares the mission of including the vast array of viewpoints in our communities. Fayetteville is a vibrantgrowingand diverse community andtheBlack communityisa vital part of the cultural mosaic. Our ideal candidate delivers aggressive forward-looking work that breaksnews highlights disparities that affect quality of life and holds public officials to account for their reporter will work with editors to shape storytelling to meet audience needs and interests. Topics of particular importance will include government salaries and spending; financial misconduct; politics and elections; ensuring governmentoperatesopenly; and rooting out unethical behaviors. The Fayetteville Observer the oldest daily newspaper in North Carolina is in the Sandhills region of the state. Cumberland County has experienced tremendous growth and development in recent years and is home to Fort Bragg one of the largest military installations in the :Creates storytelling that accurately informs and engages specific audiences. Works toward becoming the communitys leading voice in areaof expertise. Write both quick-turn stories on news of the day as well as more in-depth enterprise stories and longer-term investigations. Plans and executes engagement opportunities to reach audiences through content community eventsand social media. Connectswith the community through outreach and engagement (social media forums community leadership etc.). Collaborates with content team to provide appropriate elementsfor stories ( graphics). Produces basicphotos and videoas needed Promotes personal brand the brands of colleagues and the institution Providesgreat customer service helping readers find answers and :Bachelors or mastersdegree in communicationsjournalism or related field preferred or an equivalent combination of education and experience.1 years of professional experience; strong college work will be considered. Experience with public records is required. Database or computer-assisted reporting skills will set applicants apart from others. Demonstrated ability to prioritize self-start multitask contributeand excel under pressure. Strong command of AP grammar and style. Strong copy-editing skills and the ability to produce content that is cleanaccurate and publication-ready. Is passionate and enthusiastic about news and content that will work well with audiences on social platforms. Iscomfortable using social media such as Twitter/XFacebookand Instagram to enhance reporting and promote stories. Understands reporting ethics and sourcing. Excels in a fast-paced news environment and understands the digital-first mission. Works weekends and nights as needed. Collaborates well with others and can work with a team on the biggest stories. Candidates should have facility with AI and automation and experience in using it to enhance their role requires a valid drivers license reliable transportation and the minimum liability insurance required by state is contingent on passing a post-offer pre-employment background check motor vehicle record check & urinalysis drug screen (for driving roles only). How To Apply:We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply dont limit your upload to a resume; show us what youve done. To do so put together a single document file that includes the following in this order:Your resume one to two pages. A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job. Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what youveproduced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role. It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.#Newsgnt#LI-CB1