Public Safety and Breaking News Reporter

USA TODAY Co. • Salem, OR

2d

About The Position

The Statesman Journal/statesmanjournal.com, the leading news organization for a diverse region based in Salem, Oregon and part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is looking for a driven and nimble reporter to cover public safety and breaking news.
The ideal candidate for this high production beat has an innate sense of urgency, thrives in a digital-first environment and knows how to tap into the pulse of the community by utilizing online tools and cultivating sources.
You are comfortable quickly getting to the scene, filing a story with context, photo and video, and are constantly looking for follow ups.
You will track cases through the judicial system and report on trials.
Outside of breaking news, you will also focus on service, trending, enterprise and governmental accountability stories on local law enforcement agencies including Salem Police, Keizer Police, Marion County Sherriff’s Office, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police as well as other agencies in the Mid-Willamette Valley.
Other topics you will report on include protests, extreme weather and wildfires and news of the day.
Hustle, flexibility and curiosity are key to being successful in this role. Sensitivity and compassion for the people and issues you report on is also critical.
Our newsroom is guided by metrics, which helps us make decisions on how best to cover topics on the beat and where to engage with readers to help drive audience and subscription growth.
Salem is located between the Oregon Coast and Cascade Mountain ranges in the mid-Willamette Valley, famed for its agricultural land including hundreds of vineyards and wineries. The capital city is about one hour south of Portland, one hour north of Eugene and an hour west of the stunning Oregon Coast.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or master’s degree in communications, journalism or related field preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A strong foundation in news writing and reporting skills and familiarity with public records.
• Enthusiasm for research and digital tools used for news gathering.
• Strong news judgment and a commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to multi-task and excel under deadline pressure in a rapidly changing environment.
• Self-motivation and self-direction.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with colleagues, sources and the community.
• Command of media law and principles of ethical conduct.
• Understanding of metrics, social media and SEO.
• This role requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.

Responsibilities

• Tackle daily assignments that could include breaking news and public safety, service and trending news told through text, photo and video.
• Produce enterprise stories that answer readers’ questions with a focus on accountability for local law enforcement agencies.
• Quickly and accurately report information with context and diverse points of view.
• Use digital tools and social media in the news gathering process.
• Manage the newsroom’s case tracking spreadsheet with your editor.
• Collaborate with newsroom colleagues on breaking news when team coverage is necessary.
• Use metrics and analytics to grow audience, engagement and digital subscriptions.
• Work extended hours when necessary, including evenings, weekends and holidays as news happens.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level