The Frederick News-Post, a six-day-a-week newspaper in Frederick, Maryland, is seeking an experienced reporter to cover growth and development.
Frederick County is booming. The school system is expanding at the fastest rate in the state.
You will cover the short-term news related to growth, such as planning meetings when projects are reviewed, as well as the big-picture look. How much development is still to come? How quickly? What are the many ramifications? What do developers, contractors, environmentalists, government officials, local residents and others think?
This beat will focus on development projects that are under the purview of the city of Frederick and Frederick County, as well as smaller municipalities, which also have several large projects planned.
You also will look at the current housing market, in which prices have skyrocketed in recent years. Demand is high and supply is low. There are many compelling stories and trends to tell by tapping into the real estate world.
The beat also includes occasional coverage of two municipalities. We split up the county’s 12 municipalities among our news reporting staff of six.
Qualified candidates will have at least two years of reporting experience. They will be highly motivated and resourceful enough to find story ideas. They’ll work with a collaborative spirit under daily deadline pressures. Must be internet/social media savvy and able to shoot photos for publication.
Ideal candidates will have: curiosity, determination, the desire to constantly know more, the wisdom not to assume. They will be skeptical about closed meetings and undeterred when government officials put up roadblocks to public records. They will make the extra call, ask the extra question. They will dive in on a complex topic and craft a quick, tight lede in their head as news breaks.
They consider journalism a ton of fun, but also a calling and a public service.
A bachelor’s degree, preferably in journalism, English, or a related program, is preferred. Must have excellent grammar skills and knowledge of AP style.
Must have a vehicle suitable for getting around the county. Must possess a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving history with no suspensions.
The normal schedule is Monday to Friday, with some night shifts, particularly to cover meetings. You’ll be part of a weekend and holiday rotation.
To apply, send a cover letter (explaining why journalism and Frederick are for you), resume, salary requirements and work samples to jobs@newspost.com. Resumes submitted without a cover letter and salary requirements WILL NOT be reviewed.
