Abilene paper seeks business reporter

The business multimedia journalist at the Abilene Reporter-News is responsible for covering stories in and around the community, as they happen or after the fact, with acute awareness of the immediacy of digital-first, on-demand journalism. The business reporter’s primary focus will be on local/area business/workforces and the associated issues faced by each. The reporter also will have other coverage responsibilities in the general assignment area.

Multimedia journalists should be adept at both hard news and features, seeking opportunities to bring stories home to our audiences.  A multimedia journalist will be highly proficient in one form of storytelling, such as writing or photojournalism, but also will become proficient in a second form; that said, multimedia journalists are expected to learn to be capable of both writing and still/video photography as circumstances dictate. Investigative, watchdog and enterprise projects will be an important part of the job for this journalist.

Education & Experience/Certifications

• Requires a BS/BA in news/media discipline or equivalent experience.
• 2-plus years of experience in news, or multiple daily news internships.

Skills & Abilities

• Thoroughly understands the reporting fundamentals, including issues involving access, privacy, libel and ethics.
• Must be able to write clearly and succinctly on a variety of topics, which may extend beyond the primary focus of the beat.
• Must be proficient in the use of web publishing tools, the ability to post breaking news and/or the ability to learn new technology quickly.
• Must be able to communicate clearly and openly with other employees.
• Must be able to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, customers and the general public.
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office is a plus.
• Must be organized in order to stay ahead of the expected aspects of a beat “ envisioning trends, preparing for possible detours and scheduling timely follow-ups.
• Consistently able to meet deadlines.
• Must have intellectual curiosity to follow the issues of the day.
• Must be flexible and a self-starter.