AJC seeks a biz reporter to cover travel

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the largest and most influential local news organization in Georgia and a regional influence in politics, business and culture, seeks a reporter to cover the world’s busiest airport, one of the world’s biggest airlines and two of the world’s most important shipping companies. The AJC’s mission is to be the most essential and engaging source of news and information for the people of Atlanta, of Georgia and the South.

Atlanta was founded as a railroad hub and today it is not only that, but one of the world’s most important aviation gateways. Hartsfield-Jackson is a vital link for Georgia to the rest of the world. The AJC reports on the airport to educate road warriors and novice travelers alike. Delta makes up most of the air service at the Atlanta airport, but the operations of other carriers, such as Southwest, American, United and Frontier also matter to travelers. This reporter will keep their eyes on what these carriers are doing as well as the operations of the airport, including things travelers need to know. The airport is city-owned and keeping up with the policy directives of the city is important to reporting on the airport’s operations and business.

Delta, as a top employer, is also a company whose financial results the AJC watches closely. Likewise, UPS and Norfolk Southern are Fortune 500 companies that are important to Atlanta’s economy and tens of thousands of workers. The successful reporter will also be able to keep abreast of Atlanta’s convention business for the occasional story on the health of the region’s tourism and meetings business.

This beat will require a blend of scoops, breaking news coverage and smart enterprise and watchdog reporting on vital institutions.

To be selected, you must be able to develop strong, reader-focused story ideas and write about complex concepts with accuracy, clarity and authority. You must be skilled at delivering breaking news, smart, engaging enterprise and accountability reporting, serving readers in print and digital editions.

You must have the ability to prioritize and self-start; build sources; and demonstrate the ability of helping maintain rigorous standards for fairness and accuracy. Because you will work with others who cover entertainment, a collaborative spirit and ability to work well with teammates is essential.

Other key requirements, skills and abilities:

• Shows strong news judgment and the ability to enterprise.
• Demonstrates strong research skills, including knowledge of digital searching techniques and of websites relevant to consumer-related topics.
• Accurately reflects the points of view of all significant players.
• Uses data skills to identify potential topics and analyze them. Can use public records law to obtain information.
• Understands and uses metrics/audience analytics tools to shape coverage and grow audience.
• Uses time effectively to meet deadlines and produce an appropriate amount of work ;  is organized and able to juggle multiple stories simultaneously.
• Provides needed communication across the newsroom and collaborates effectively .
• Plans or takes photos and videos; collects audio.
• Podcast, video on-air and newsletter experience are plusses.

The responsibilities above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this job.  This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for this position.

Position Requirements

Education:          College degree preferred.

Experience:        Bachelors degree with 6+ years of professional journalism experience; comparable experience through other roles will be considered for outstanding candidates.  Masters degree with 4+ years of experience or 10 years of experience with no degree.

• Strong record of serving audiences in a fast-paced, productive environment that is shaped by research, audience metrics and audience needs in print and in digital.
• Demonstrated ability to produce authoritative coverage without reporting gaps and clean, clear copy with minimum of supervision.
• Fluency in another language other than English a plus

Additional Requirements

• Permanent residence in metro Atlanta required. While this position allows hybrid work, there will be some days where you’re required to be in the AJC’s office.
• Some weekend and night work may be required as news events merit.
• Reliable home internet service required.
• Local travel required. Therefore, a successful candidate will need a reliable vehicle to cover the news.

Compensation:

Compensation includes a base salary of $77,800.00 – $116,800.00. The base salary may vary within the anticipated base pay range based on factors such as the ultimate location of the position and the selected candidate’s knowledge, skills, and abilities. Position may be eligible for additional compensation that may include an incentive program.