Job Description

The Aurora Beacon-News, part of the Chicago Tribune news group, is looking for a versatile general assignment reporter to cover the state’s second-largest city. We are looking for an aggressive reporter and skilled writer who can juggle breaking news assignments with compelling enterprise and trend pieces that are important to a local audience.

What you will do:

• Produce pieces on a regular basis; not afraid to conceptualize, conceive, and execute big-picture stories that could take weeks or even months to complete and do so while balancing daily tasks

• Cover breaking news and general assignment work for the metro desk and identify longer-term enterprise stories

• Respond to breaking news, craft engaging feature stories and examine local issues

• Utilize basic photography skills to enhance visual storytelling and reader engagement

• Seek out opportunities for investigations and projects

• Collaborate with other journalists

What you will bring:

• A track record of executing breaking stories on a tight deadline

• Crisp writing, accuracy, commitment to fair play and the ability to tell stories about people that go beyond the statistics

• Insightful reporting and a commitment to serving the public by exposing inequities and holding the powerful to account

• The ability to be collaborative, creative, collegial, high energy and dogged in pursuit of the story

• Fluency in Spanish is a plus

Benefits and Compensation:

The hourly wage is $19.23 Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to geographic location, education, work experience, time in role, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, the Company offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, 401k, as well as paid time off and select paid holidays (all benefits are based on eligibility). Please click the following link for more detailed information: http://www.mybensite.com/tribpub

Who we are:

Founded in 1847, the Chicago Tribune, is the top source of news and information in the Chicago area and the largest news organization in the Midwest. The Tribune, winner of 27 Pulitzer Prizes, is known for its innovative investigative reporting, insightful coverage of the arts and culture, and community-leading opinion writing. As the cornerstone of Chicago Tribune Media Group (CTMG), the Chicago Tribune anchors a diverse network of publications. This includes six daily suburban papers, over 30 hyperlocal weeklies, Chicago Magazine, and digital offerings that inform, engage and connect communities.

EEO Statement:

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

How To Apply:

• Please submit an online application along with your resume for this position here In addition to your resume, please include a cover letter and 5 samples showcasing your best work.

Closing Date:

• Continuous recruitment until the position is filled

Conditions of Employment:

• A full pre-employment background check and MVR will be conducted as part of the selection process. Must be willing to submit and pass the necessary required checks

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and have reliable transportation

• Travel – This position entails occasional driving for work assignments, in-person training sessions and/or meetings. The employee will be responsible for transporting themselves between different sites as needed

• Must be available for shift work. May be required to work various hours for coverage outside of normal business hours

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