Job Description

WTEN/WXXA-TV, in Albany, New York is looking for an experienced Reporter with a strong political interest and focus on breaking political news stories. This position will be responsible for generating daily in-depth content that will be provided to 8 stations across New York State. This reporter will need to be aggressive when questioning lawmakers, conduct lengthy research, and create several stories a day. The office is based at the NYS Capitol in Albany, but work is not limited to that location. This reporter will travel when necessary to be the face of stories impacting different regions of the state. This may include regular trips to the other Nexstar markets they serve. A minimum of two years of on-air reporting/shooting/editing experience plus a college degree are required. A background in political science is preferred. The reporter will also make weekly contributions to our statewide program “Empire State Weekly.” Creative writing/storytelling skills are essential along with a willingness to work hard to get the story. The ideal candidate has plenty of live experience and thrives in a competitive environment.

• Reports news stories for broadcast, describing the background and details of events
• Arranges interviews with people who can provide information about stories
• Reviews copy and corrects errors in content, grammar and punctuation, following prescribed editorial style and formatting guidelines
• Reviews and evaluates notes taken about event aspects to isolate pertinent facts and details
• Determines a story’s emphasis, length and format, and organizes material accordingly
• Researches and analyzes background information related to news stories to be able to provide complete and accurate information
• Gathers information about events through research, interviews, experience or attendance at political, news, sports, artistic, social or other functions
• Pitches stories to news managers and news producers which are relevant to the local community
• Receives assignments and evaluates leads and tips to develop story ideas
• Discusses issues with producers and/or news managers to establish priorities or positions
• Checks reference materials such as books, news files or public records to obtain relevant facts
• Revises work to meet editorial approval or to fit time requirements
• Shoots and edits news events and news reports
• Produces and presents reports for all platforms
• Ensures that all content meets company standards for journalistic integrity and production quality
• Writes stories for the web and other eMedia platforms
• Interacts with viewers/users on social media sites
• Performs special projects and other duties as assigned

Requirements & Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and work-related experience
• Fluency in English
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written with the ability to ad lib when required
• Minimum two years’ experience in news reporting (Depending on market size)
• Superior on-air presence
• Proficiency with computers, telephones, copiers, scanners, fax machines and other office equipment
• Ability to meet deadlines, prioritize assignments and handle multiple tasks simultaneously
• Valid driver’s license with a good driving record
• Flexibility to work any shift

Benefits

Hourly Rate: $25.00 - $29.00

We offer a competitive compensation plan and an array of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(K), and more.