Local Government and Communities Reporter
WBHM is seeking an enterprising journalist to cover local government and communities. The Birmingham area has changed tremendously over the last several years with the addition of Railroad Park, Regions Field, and a thriving restaurant scene. Lofts dot the cityscape, and along with industry and research institutions, there is a budding startup scene.
Birmingham also struggles with a workforce skills gap, poverty, and underperforming schools. The coronavirus pandemic has added significant financial strains on the city’s economy. We’re looking for a reporter who can examine local issues and tell stories about their impact in metro Birmingham. She or he will produce journalism that holds governments and corporations accountable. The ideal candidate would be adept at reporting from courthouses, schools, city council meetings and neighborhood gatherings. The job requires a keen eye for stories, attention to detail, versatility, and excellent news judgment.
A thriving, mission-driven multimedia organization, WBHM produces award-winning news, information, and music programming. The WBHM audience values information, creativity, curiosity, and social responsibility – and our employees do, too. Every day, we touch the lives of thousands statewide.
APPLY NOW!
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Report and write original stories that match our standards for accuracy, fairness and newsworthiness.
- Record, gather and identify sound elements to produce rich and memorable audio experiences.
- Tell stories on all editorial platforms, including digital and visual media, social networks, and podcasts, with the goal of reaching the largest audience with the biggest impact.
- Work collaboratively with editors, reporters and producers in WBHM’s newsroom and at NPR and other editorial partners.
- Produce original, compelling stories that break news and advance WBHM’s coverage. Identify investigative projects and original enterprise by cultivating sources, using FOIA requests and building databases.
- Prioritize and manage time well; meet deadlines; remain responsive and flexible in the face of the demands of programming and the news cycle.
- Remain current and anticipate trends on issues in local government, and federal and state policy that impact communities.
- Take the necessary steps to gain and sharpen the skills and knowledge required to cover a fast-evolving and multifaceted beat on evolving storytelling platforms.
- Fulfill administrative obligations arising from assignments, such as filing prompt and accurate expense records and program information/summaries; maintain contact with editors and appropriate producers; keep editors and appropriate producers informed about assignments.
- Represent WBHM in public forums and gatherings as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- At least one year experience as a staff or freelance reporter at a daily or weekly news organization covering breaking news and meeting deadlines.
- Audio journalism experience preferred.
- Demonstrated track record in writing for the web and effectively using social media to tell stories and engage audiences.
- Proven ability to work well with others, demonstrating at all times respect for the diverse constituencies at WBHM and in the public radio system.
EDUCATION:
Bachelor’s Degree in journalism or related field, or equivalent years of experience.
Does this sound like you? If so, we want to hear from you. All applications must include a resume and cover letter to be considered.
Part of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, WBHM offers a competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package including health and wellness coverage, retirement, and work/life balance programs, as well as opportunities for career growth and development.
WBHM is an Equal Opportunity Employer and an inclusive place to work that welcomes diverse and unique perspectives, working to create a more informed public. Qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law.
