Job Description

The Frederick News-Post, a six-day-a-week newspaper in Frederick, Maryland — a rapidly growing community with no shortage of lively news — is seeking two experienced reporters to join our newsroom. Two reporters who soon will leave us currently cover 1) city governor / planning and 2) health / environment / Fort Detrick. But we're in flux for now, and the newsroom division of labor might change. So, let's talk more generally for now. Here are some traits we value in a reporter: • Meetings are important to cover, but only because you've done the homework on the topic in advance and arrive prepared. You don't wait for news to come to you. • You know the key players and want to pick their brains. Finding voices to add perspectives beyond the official sources comes instinctively to you. • What sources tell you is worthwhile, but you want proof and corroboration, particularly in documents. • You like to be busy. You have multiple stories and ideas in progress and a list of many others to pursue. Qualified candidates will have at least two years of reporting experience. They will be highly motivated and resourceful enough to find story ideas. They’ll work with a collaborative spirit under daily deadline pressures. Must be internet/social media savvy and able to shoot photos for publication. Ideal candidates will have: curiosity, determination, the desire to constantly know more, the wisdom not to assume. They will: • be skeptical about closed meetings and undeterred when government officials put up roadblocks to public records. • make the extra call, ask the extra question. • dive in on a complex topic and craft a quick, tight lede in their head as news breaks. • consider journalism a ton of fun, but also a calling and a public service. A bachelor’s degree, preferably in journalism, English, or a related program, is preferred. Must have excellent grammar skills and knowledge of AP style. Proficiency in Spanish is a plus. Must have a vehicle suitable for getting around the county, a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving history with no suspensions. The normal schedule is Monday to Friday, with some night shifts, particularly to cover meetings. You'll be part of a weekend and holiday rotation. To apply, send a cover letter (explaining why journalism and Frederick are for you), resume, salary requirements and work samples to  jobs@newspost.com . Resumes submitted without a cover letter and salary requirements WILL NOT be reviewed.

Job Tags

Full time, Monday to Friday, Night shift, Weekend work

Similar Jobs