Des Moines Register seeks a growth and development reporter

The Des Moines Register/desmoinesregister.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, seeks a growth and development reporter who will consistently break news about new commercial and residential developments and sift out trends before others see them.

Source development is critical to the beat, including city administrators and planners, developers, planning and zoning officials, land use experts and neighborhood association leaders.

This reporter will file quick stories on new developments, but also will develop explanatory, narrative and watchdog stories that shed light on what’s getting built and what’s not and how that impacts the daily lives of residents.

The ideal candidate will be an experienced reporter who can connect with people in the community as well as local leaders and will provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues, including data analysis of building permits, tax abatements and other public incentives that finance development.

The growth and development reporter will use social media, video and other tools to replace or supplement traditional story forms. The reporter also will use metrics to understand what’s resonating with readers and will be willing to experiment and innovate to reach new audiences. Duties include writing compelling headlines and employing SEO best practices to draw in readers.

This reporter also will provide occasional coverage of other business news and general assignments.

We expect anyone who works with us to be constantly improving their skills. We offer a robust internal and Gannett-wide training program. This reporter will work with experienced editors and occasionally be partnered with other veteran reporters on projects.

Des Moines is the Midwest’s fastest-growing major metro. It 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 that is recognized nationally for the quality of its political and state government reporting. It offers an opportunity to build a career path in Iowa or, as part of the USA Today network, to gain the foundation to move on to top metros across the country.

Responsibilities:   

 Use metrics and analytics to determine how to best reach and grow the audience.

• Increase digital audience and engagement and grow digital subscriptions.
• Be courageous about experimentation.
• Be a team player who likes to collaborate with coworkers.
• Apply innovative, creative thinking to support the company’s goals.

Requirements:

Bachelor’s or master’s in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience. We will also consider candidates with strong internships.

• Five years of experience in professional journalism writing and reporting.
• Understanding of metrics, social media and SEO.
• Solid news judgment.
• Self-motivation and self-direction.
• Top-notch planning, organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to multi-task and excel under intense deadline pressure in a rapidly changing environment.
• Command of media law and principles of ethical conduct.
• This role requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
• Employment is contingent on passing a post-offer pre-employment background check, motor vehicle record check & drug screen.  

We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don’t limit your upload to a resume; show us what you’ve done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order:

Your resume – one to two pages.

1. A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
2. Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what you’ve produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role.

 It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.

To apply, go here.