Gannett seeks a metro jobs reporter

The Des Moines Register/desmoinesregister.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking an experienced reporter to produce enterprise and watchdog work focused on central Iowa’s largest employers and prospects for the region’s workers.

The metro jobs reporter should know how to dig out stories from balance sheets, economic statistics and census data. But the ideal candidate will also be a master storyteller who can weave richly contextualized narratives about how business decisions are affecting Iowans’ lives.

This reporter is expected to consistently break exclusive news. This reporter will identify, produce and post stories, photos and video quickly and accurately across platforms: mobile, desktop and social media.

The reporter will use live chats, social media, video and other tools to replace or supplement traditional story forms. This reporter will use metrics to understand what’s resonating with readers and will shape coverage to increase audience. All reporters at the Register handle occasional general assignments and breaking news. They also have the chance to pitch in on presidential campaign coverage in the lead-up to the Iowa caucuses.

Responsibilities:

• This reporter is expected to consistently break exclusive news
• This reporter will identify, produce and post stories, photos and video quickly and accurately across platforms: mobile, desktop and social media
• The reporter will use live chats, social media, video and other tools to replace or supplement traditional story forms
• This reporter will use metrics to understand what’s resonating with readers and will shape coverage to increase audience
• All reporters at the Register handle occasional general assignments and breaking news
• 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

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or master’s in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• We will also consider candidates with strong internships
• At least three years of experience in professional journalism writing and reporting
• Understanding of metrics, social media and SEO
• 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

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.
• 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.

For further information click here.