KTOO Public Media is seeking an experienced journalist to cover education in Juneau, Alaska.
Juneau’s school district has undergone unprecedented changes and financial struggles in recent years. This reporter’s top priority will be keeping our listeners and readers informed about what’s happening in classrooms and at school board meetings while also telling larger stories about the educators, students and families that make up Juneau’s schools.
In addition to the school district, Juneau also has a university campus and this reporter can expect to cover stories related to Indigenous culture and language revitalization as well. While our focus is Juneau, these issues echo throughout all of Alaska. We serve a statewide audience as well as local and regional, and this reporter will cover state education funding legislation at the Alaska Capitol.
We are looking for someone who puts people first in their reporting, but also doesn’t shy away from digging into policy and how it impacts stakeholders. A demonstrated passion for audio journalism is preferred, and a soft spot for kids is a definite plus.
This position reports to the managing editor.
Responsibilities:
Find and pitch stories that creatively explore issues important to Juneau
Report and produce news stories for radio and web in accordance with public radio’s high standards for balance, fairness and accuracy
Attend Juneau School Board meetings and other public meetings as necessary
Balance in-depth stories with breaking news and quick turns
Must be willing to take photos while reporting
Collaborate with the rest of the newsroom to cover breaking news or general assignment stories outside their beat as needed
Meet deadlines, follow AP style and uphold professional journalistic standards
Help cover on-air hosting shifts when necessary
Preferred Background and Skills:
At least two (2) years of reporting experience
Knowledge of journalism ethics and professional standards
Knowledge of Alaska issues and trends
Ability to file clean, accurate copy on deadline
On-air experience or a willingness to learn
Knowledge of sound gathering, editing and production for radio broadcast
Must be willing to live in Juneau
Feel free to apply even if you don’t meet all of these qualifications.
About Us:
KTOO has a mid-sized newsroom in a small market. Our editorial focus is a mix of stories of local and statewide importance. Our reporters focus on city governance, housing, tourism & other local economic drivers, social justice, Alaska Native culture and governance, health and science, and climate.
KTOO supports station-wide efforts to increase diversity and inclusion. The newsroom is committed to consciously seeking out voices, perspectives and stories not found in other outlets or in the media at all.
We also know that a diverse and inclusive staff will lead to stronger reporting and a deeper connection to communities we serve. We strongly encourage women and non-binary candidates; Alaska Native, Indigenous and people of color; people with disabilities and those with diverse economic and educational backgrounds to apply. You will be supported by our team.
KTOO is honored to do our work on the homelands of the Lingít people, specifically, the Áak’w Kwáan. We are a highly visible public media organization with a strong commitment to local, regional and statewide program production. We operate three public radio stations in Juneau (KTOO, KRNN and KXLL), a regional public television station (KTOO-TV), a statewide public affairs television channel (KTOO 360TV) and an online news service (www.ktoo.org).
Compensation: Annual salary of $60,970 plus competitive benefits including health insurance, retirement, generous paid leave and holidays, and 20 weeks of paid family leave.