Gannett seeks an entertainment reporter

The Des Moines Register /desmoinesregister.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking a creative, digitally savvy journalist to join our award-winning features team as an entertainment reporter.

This position requires a versatile reporter who can report and write stories on entertainment, concerts, dining, shopping, Iowa celebrities and things to do.

The successful candidate will have a passion for storytelling across an array of digital and social media platforms, incorporating text, photos, video and audio.

A primary focus for this reporter will be to break news on concerts and entertainment happenings. This position requires a versatile reporter who can write compelling features and smart analysis across all aspects of entertainment in Iowa, including performing arts, Iowa celebrities and the growing beer scene.

The job requires an understanding of social media platforms, audience metrics and SEO techniques; quick, tight, lively writing; and a competitive mindset determined to see your work at the top our pageview charts each day.

We’re looking for a team player who enjoys pitching in with other reporters to team-report a big story or take on a story for another entertainment team reporter who is overbooked

Responsibilities:

• Research, report and produce compelling content that informs and engages readers.
• Use live video to spotlight high-interest interviews and events.
• Produce content in alternative forms (listicles, Q&As, narratives, photo galleries, video – that are tailored to the right platform (mobile, desktop, social media) to best reach the audience.
• Use real-time metrics to respond to user demand and reader interest.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or master’s in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least two years of journalism experience or significant internship experience.
• High-level writing, communication and time management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work well on deadline.
• Ability to shoot photos and video and file quickly across platforms: mobile, desktop and social media.
• Ability to produce content that is clean, accurate and publication ready.
• Comfort with using social media such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to enhance reporting and promote stories.
• Understanding of reporting ethics and sourcing.
• This role requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.

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.