KWTV Helicopter Video Journalist

Griffin Media • Oklahoma City, OK

3d • Onsite

About The Position

As a Helicopter Video Journalist, you will shoot and transmit aerial video of news, sports, and severe weather events displaying awareness of the elements of good photojournalism. You will ride in the station’s newsgathering helicopter and operate its onboard camera and transmitter system. You will produce and edit videos for television, station websites and social media. You may fill-in as a photojournalist or newscast editor if helicopter is unavailable.

Requirements

• Minimum two years college or trade school with emphasis on Radio/TV or Journalism. Related experience will be evaluated by Company management and may be substituted on the basis of two year of experience equals one year of education.
• Minimum two years news photography experience at a network affiliate.
• Must be able to operate all editing and recording equipment. Knowledge of Avid non-linear editing preferred.
• Willingness to adapt to ever changing technology and an evolving newsroom.
• Knowledge of journalistic standards necessary and ability to perform appropriately on camera.
• Accurate and comprehensive writing, shooting, and editing skills as well as good communication skills.
• Ability to work well with others and a willingness to help others when the need arises in all aspects of newsgathering.
• Ability to work with a reporter or alone in the field to capture the story under tight deadlines.
• Creative and passionate storyteller with an understanding of the National Press Photographers Association philosophies and practices.
• The HVJ must be proficient at operating all ENG equipment on board and should ensure all necessary tasks are properly executed.
• The HVJ should be proficient at operating the intercom system.
• Must have, or be able to obtain, a valid Oklahoma driver’s license and have a driving record acceptable to the company.
• Ability to perform other job-related duties as assigned.
• Capable of handling the physical and mental requirements including:
• ability to verbally communicate in English
• ability to read computer monitor information (words and data)
• ability to hear detailed spoken word
• ability to remain sedentary and to travel to work location
• ability to perform manual dexterity tasks with hands, fingers
• ability to analyze data, concentrate, reason, and write
• ability to perform under emotional stress
• ability to work rotating shifts and be on 24-hour call
• ability to lift 50 pounds unaided regularly
• ability to ride in the aircraft without getting nauseous, disoriented or physically ill
• ability to be in a confined space (the aircraft cabin) for extended periods of time
• ability to adhere to weight restrictions of the aircraft (200 pounds or less)
• ability to have 20/20 corrected vision

Responsibilities

• Operate the onboard camera and transmitter to broadcast aerials of news, sports and weather events.
• Record sound and pictures on video for broadcasts and all digital platforms, displaying awareness of the elements of good photojournalism.
• Apply editing skills for stories. Organize video for broadcasting and all digital platforms. Avoid potential technical problems. Work with other departments to ensure smooth presentation.
• Write news copy and travel to news scenes to cover stories as needed. Maintain awareness of current events.
• Use social media as part of daily story telling.
• Stay in contact with Assignment Desk throughout shift.
• Organizes video for news broadcasts.
• Maintains operational status of assigned equipment.
• The Helicopter Video Journalist assists the pilot in looking for other aircraft and hazards and points those out to the pilot. While on the ground, the HVJ watches for people approaching the aircraft and notifies the pilot.
• The HVJ may need to exit the helicopter while blades are in motion, to assist in providing ground safety. When departing or approaching the helicopter, always approach and depart in front of the helicopter where the pilot can see you.
• The HVJ should keep all equipment brought on board secured in flight.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned, including driving automobile for company business.

What This Job Offers

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