The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel/ jsonline.com , part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking a forward-thinking reporter to develop a reshaped beat with one eye on the area’s manufacturing economy and the other on how the region’s economy is shifting, from more green jobs to efforts to bolster tourism and entertainment.
This means covering old-line companies such as Harley-Davidson and Briggs, as well as emerging powerhouses such as Komatsu, Generac and Milwaukee Tool. But it also means understanding shifts, including the burgeoning ‘green economy’ and developments such as the massive solar farms planned for Dane County and across the state. One day it could mean following the push by the Milwaukee Brewers to receive additional public support for operation of American Family Field, the next it could involve the upheaval Kohl’s is facing in the wrenching world of retail, the next the effort to develop the Foxconn site in Racine County.
In short, this beat will place the reporter at the center of multiple, fast-developing stories that each have a major effect on the vitality of the economy in Milwaukee and the state. It differs from other approaches in that it does not focus entirely on one sector of the economy. Rather, the idea is to help capture the changes our region – and its most prominent employers — are going through, and to help readers understand and navigate that environment.
As such, the successful applicant must be flexible and have a wide-range of experience covering business, as well as a keen eye for identifying the most important stories of the day and the skills to tell those stories in multiple ways and across all platforms. The position will work closely with other reporters in the department, including those focused on the startups/tech economy and workforce needs. This reporter should always operate with an audience-growth mindset and be willing to adapt their approach to meet the needs of readers, be it through style of writing (Q&A, takeaways) or delivery method (video, audio, data visualization).
The position is a part of a dynamic business and economics reporting team that includes our 10 sister newsrooms in Wisconsin, as well as other parts of the USA TODAY NETWORK.
Responsibilities
- Creates storytelling that accurately informs, entertains and engages specific audiences and platforms through the use of metrics.
- Works toward becoming the community’s leading voice in area of expertise.
- Connects with the community through storytelling and outreach (social media, on camera, forums, community leadership, etc.) Provides thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
- Works with content strategist to evaluate what’s working and what’s not and develops ongoing plans to better satisfy audience needs.
- Collaborates with content team to provide all appropriate elements for stories (i.e. photos, videos and graphics). Captures basic photos and video as needed.
- Promotes personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.
- Provides great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in communications, journalism, marketing or related field preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Previous work in fact-checking or government coverage is a preferred for this position.
- Work samples that demonstrate storytelling techniques on multiple platforms.
- Proven experience producing accurate reports under deadline pressure, in a style that resonates with mobile and social audiences.
- Proficiency on social media platforms including, but not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Reddit.
- Effective communicator; able to get along with diverse personalities.
- Strong news judgement and ability to multitask.
- Strong writing, spelling and grammar skills; familiarity with AP style.
- 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 and drug screen.
To Do So, Put Together a Single Document File That Includes The Following, In This Order
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.
- Your resume – one to two pages.
- A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
- 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.
