Rapid Response Communities Reporter

USA TODAY Co. • Des Moines, IA

4d

About The Position

The Des Moines Register is seeking a communities reporter who will focus on producing quick-turn local enterprise on affordability, faith and immigration. The ideal candidate will be a strong reporter and writer who will build audience through the power of probing reporting and compelling storytelling that highlights these communities and the real issues they’re facing in the vibrant Des Moines metro.
The bulk of assignments will be enterprise bouncing off the news and developed in a few hours up to a few days. Stories will come from a mix of ideas generated by the reporter or assignments from editors.
This position requires a versatile journalist and has a demonstrated track record in quick-turn investigative and enterprise reporting. This reporter will be expected to capably handle on-scene reporting of major breaking news and spin off angles off the news. Other assignments may include profiles, sense-of-place features, trend stories and occasional longer, narrative pieces with emotional resonance. Data skills and Spanish language skills are a plus.
They should be comfortable taking photos and producing video as needed and using social media and other digital tools to present news in novel ways. This reporter will use metrics to understand what’s resonating with readers and will shape coverage to steadily increase target audiences.
They will work Sunday through Thursday.
Des Moines is a growing and changing capital city that has become a magnet for young professionals, attracted by an expanding job base and a vibrant cultural and arts scene.
The Des Moines Register is a 17-time Pulitzer Prize winner. We reach readers across the state with our daily Des Moines Register editions, our award-winning DesMoinesRegister.com mobile and desktop sites and various nondaily publications.
The Des Moines Register is committed to diversity and proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or professional equivalent.
• At least five years of professional journalism experience.
• High-level writing, communication and time management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work well on deadline.
• Demonstrated track record for keen news judgment, ethical decision-making and fair play.
• Command of media law and principles of ethical conduct.
• This position requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.

Nice To Haves

• Data skills and Spanish language skills are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Research, report and produce compelling content that continuously grows audience by informing and engaging readers.
• Act as a public ambassador through community outreach and connect with readers through social media.
• Shoot live video to spotlight breaking news and high-interest events.
• Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues. Produce watchdog journalism that leads to change.
• Use real-time metrics to respond to user demand and reader interest.
• Contribute to the community’s greater good through impactful journalism.

What This Job Offers

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