Rapid Response Communities Reporter

Gannett | USA TODAY NETWORK • Des Moines, IA, USA • 6d ago

Rapid Response Communities Reporter

The Des Moines Register is seeking a communities reporter who will focus on producing quick-turn local enterprise on affordability, faith and immigration. The ideal candidate will be a strong reporter and writer who will build audience through the power of probing reporting and compelling storytelling that highlights these communities and the real issues they’re facing in the vibrant Des Moines metro.

The bulk of assignments will be enterprise bouncing off the news and developed in a few hours up to a few days. Stories will come from a mix of ideas generated by the reporter or assignments from editors.

This position requires a versatile journalist and has a demonstrated track record in quick-turn investigative and enterprise reporting. This reporter will be expected to capably handle on-scene reporting of major breaking news and spin off angles off the news. Other assignments may include profiles, sense-of-place features, trend stories and occasional longer, narrative pieces with emotional resonance. Data skills and Spanish language skills are a plus.

They should be comfortable taking photos and producing video as needed and using social media and other digital tools to present news in novel ways. This reporter will use metrics to understand what’s resonating with readers and will shape coverage to steadily increase target audiences.

They will work Sunday through Thursday.

Des Moines is a growing and changing capital city that has become a magnet for young professionals, attracted by an expanding job base and a vibrant cultural and arts scene.

The Des Moines Register is a 17-time Pulitzer Prize winner. We reach readers across the state with our daily Des Moines Register editions, our award-winning DesMoinesRegister.com mobile and desktop sites and various nondaily publications.

The Des Moines Register is committed to diversity and proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Responsibilities:

Research, report and produce compelling content that continuously grows audience by informing and engaging readers.
Act as a public ambassador through community outreach and connect with readers through social media.
Shoot live video to spotlight breaking news and high-interest events.
Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues. Produce watchdog journalism that leads to change.
Use real-time metrics to respond to user demand and reader interest.
Contribute to the community’s greater good through impactful journalism.

Requirements:

Bachelor's degree or professional equivalent.
At least five years of professional journalism experience.
High-level writing, communication and time management skills.
Demonstrated ability to work well on deadline.
Demonstrated track record for keen news judgment, ethical decision-making and fair play.
Command of media law and principles of ethical conduct. 
This position requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and the 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, don’t limit your upload to a resume; show us what you’ve 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 you’ve produced 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.

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