Reno Gazette-Journal seeks an economics reporter

The Reno Gazette-Journal/rgj.com part of the USA Today Network, is seeking a sharp, energetic reporter to give readers the information they need to succeed in Reno’s new economy. This position has a business and finance element, but it’s not about covering board meetings or ribbon cuttings. This beat will take a daily look at the issues that personally affect our readers and create a guide to navigate those issues.

Examples might include strategies for buying a house in a super-competitive market, pros and cons of tapping home equity in a housing boom, comparing costs at state colleges, peeling back the onion-like layers of local bureaucracy in starting a business, saving money/time using the new grocery/goods/service deliveries, or knowing how to check on day-care providers’ records.

This reporter will produce quick reads bouncing off topical events, in-depth enterprise, watchdog reporting and journalism with impact that readers will want to share and talk about. This market is experiencing a growing economy and hot real estate market, and an influx of newcomers who are changing the texture of Reno’s culture. It’s a bubbling concoction that is perfect for the enterprising reporter to find great stories.

The right candidate will work in one of Gannett’s top-producing mid-sized newsrooms, known for punching above our weight and valuing investigative and watchdog journalism. There’s a deep pool of experienced editors and reporters to learn from, and the newsroom nurtures a culture of collegial cooperation and professional support.

Reno, Nevada, which is one of the top destinations for outdoor recreation, with Lake Tahoe, dozens of ski resorts, bike trails, rock climbing, hiking, hunting and fishing just minutes away.

Responsibilities:

Report quickly, clearly and accurately and deliver news, via stories, video, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or any other methods available to reach our Nevada audience.
Use metrics to inform story choices and shape beat strategies.
Identifies top news stories of the day, based on analytics and audience potential.
Cultivates a beat, knowing the ins/outs of the beat and its key players. Has a genuine interest in people and ability to build trust.
Equally adept at writing breaking news stories, enterprise and trending stories and traditional long-form features.
Writes and/or produces multimedia content that appeals to key audience targets and maximizes user experience on digital and social platforms to reach readers where they spend their time and attention.
Provide cogent analysis of trends and issues that affect the daily lives of readers.
Works closely with graphic, photo and video teams to optimize and produce content.
Is comfortable hosting videos, Facebook Live appearances, and podcasts.
Engages with readers through various social media platforms.
Demonstrates strong news judgment informed by real-world experience.
Writes quick-hit enterprise and trend stories off the news.

Requirements:

Bachelor’s or master’s in communications, Journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least 3 years’ reporting/newsroom experience.
Strong command of AP grammar and style.
Strong copy-editing skills and the ability to produce content that is clean, accurate and “publication ready.”
Is passionate and enthusiastic about news and content that will work well with audiences on social platforms.
A desire to grow and develop a key beat in our newsrooms.
Is comfortable using social media such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat to enhance reporting and promote stories.
Understands reporting ethics and sourcing.
Excels in a fast-paced news environment and understands the digital first mission.
Collaborates well with others and can work with a team on the biggest stories.
This role requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.

Please attach a resume, cover letter, and three to five work samples (PDFs preferred; URLs accepted) to your online application.

To apply, go here.