Legislative Reporter

MediaNews Group•Denver, CO

8d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Denver Post is seeking an experienced reporter to join a two-person team covering the state legislature and state government. This is a highly competitive beat, so the successful candidate will need to be ready to out-hustle others in the market. More importantly, we’re looking for a reporter who can break news and make smart story choices that will connect the people of Colorado to the decisions made by their elected officials. A demonstrated ability to build sources and juggle dailies with long-term enterprise is a must. Reporting skills should go beyond source interviews by harnessing public records laws and incorporating data into stories. Legislative experience is a plus. The Denver Post newsroom works largely remotely (though we do have a newsroom for applicants looking for an in-person office environment), but because this job involves covering the state of Colorado, we're looking to hire candidates who are either based in Colorado or who are willing to relocate.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field, or equivalent experience
Basic photo and video skills
Some understanding of standard curation techniques
Demonstrated proficiency with social media tools
Strong reporting and writing skills
Ability to multi-task and work quickly to meet deadlines
Prior newspaper experience preferred
Must be willing to submit and pass the necessary required checks
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and have reliable transportation
Must be available for shift work. May be required to work various hours for coverage outside of normal business hours

Nice To Haves

Legislative experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

Develop news sources and look for and create news story ideas in coordination with assignment editor
Research, observe surroundings and conduct interviews over the telephone and in person to gather pertinent information for news stories
Interact with colleagues in a professional manner
Organize information and write an accurate, clear, interesting and grammatically correct story while meeting deadlines.
Produce stories of varying complexity and form
Seek out and report news for immediate publication on the Post’s digital platforms or for print publications
Discuss story formulation with editors and edit or rewrite stories, as necessary
Use digital tools and social media to report and promote Denver Post material
Understand and implement SEO techniques to ensure content reaches the largest online audience.
Stay abreast of the latest trends
Create and curate content for a dynamic web presence
Request appropriate photos, video and graphics for stories
Work closely with visual journalists to provide clear explanations of assignments.
Shoot photos and videos when necessary and transmit them promptly for digital publication