Government & Public Policy Reporter

USA Today • Lubbock, TX

12d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Lubbock Avalanche-Journal/lubbockonline.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking a government and public policy reporter to cover impactful issues in Lubbock and the South Plains-Panhandle region of West Texas. This reporter must be highly motivated with a proven ability to report compelling stories that resonate with audiences. The successful candidate should be confident pursuing watchdog and public-interest journalism focused on Lubbock - a growing metro area of more than 300,000 people - as well as Texas Tech University and the surrounding region where government and public policy developments often make a statewide and national impact. They should be adept at using digital reporting tools, have facility with AI, be knowledgeable about accessing public records and able to analyze data to strengthen reporting. Visual storytelling skills, including photo and video, are essential. Time management and multitasking skills are a must, as this reporter will need to be a self-motivated journalist working with a team of reporters and editors in a hybrid environment. They will work both out of our new downtown newsroom in Lubbock and in the field.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or master’s degree in communications, journalism, marketing or related field preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 1-2 years’ reporting experience, which could include freelancing, internships, and college publication work.
• Adept at taking photos and video and will file quickly across platforms: mobile, desktop and social media.
• Candidates should have facility with AI and automation and experience in using it to enhance their journalism.
• Strong command of AP grammar and style.
• Strong copy-editing skills and the ability to produce content that is clean, accurate and publication ready.
• Is passionate and enthusiastic about news and content that will work well with audiences on social platforms.
• Comfortable in fluid, fast-breaking, stressful situations.
• A desire to grow and develop a key beat in our newsroom.
• Is comfortable using social media such as X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc. to enhance reporting and promote stories.
• Understands reporting ethics and sourcing.
• Excels in a fast-paced news environment and understands the digital first mission.
• Collaborates well with others and can work with a team on the biggest stories.
• News often requires employees to work extended hours, evenings, weekends and holidays, sometimes unexpectedly.
• This role requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
• Employment is contingent on passing a post-offer pre-employment background check, motor vehicle record check & drug screen.

Responsibilities

• Create content (articles, videos, photos, etc.) about local news that accurately informs, entertains and engages key audiences and platforms through the use of metrics.
• Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
• Work toward becoming the community’s leading voice for news and issues regarding government and public policy.
• Identify key concerns from community members, organizations and leaders
• Work with editors and other team members to evaluate what's working and what's not and develop ongoing plans to better satisfy audience needs.
• Collaborate with content team to provide all appropriate elements for stories (i.e., photos, videos, and graphics).
• Promote personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.
• Provide great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.
• Perform other duties as necessary.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree