State Capitol Reporter

Job Description

Description

WITF is a trusted, valued supplier of programs and services that satisfies and encourages curiosity in the 19 counties it serves in the central Pennsylvania region. We are dedicated to high-impact journalism that holds power accountable and elevates underreported stories. We believe local and state-level decisions often have the greatest effect on people’s lives — and yet receive the least national coverage. Our mission is to inspire lifelong learning by connecting people and communities of Pennsylvania through trusted journalism, thoughtful discussion and educational experiences. 

We’re seeking a State Capitol Reporter who will be responsible for finding unique, informative and enterprising stories in Pennsylvania state government and politics and produces a mix of spot news, features and investigative stories. The reporter operates with a digital-first mentality while also providing frequent audio reports for WITF and public radio stations across Pennsylvania and the nation, with a primary focus on the legislators from central Pennsylvania and issues important to those counties.?The reporter will occasionally collaborate on coverage will other journalists on staff and partner newsrooms.   

The ideal candidate has a deep interest in state-level politics, strong sourcing instincts, and a passion for watchdog and solutions-oriented journalism. You’ll work closely with our editors and fellow reporters across beats to tell stories that matter — with a focus on public service, equity, and impact. 

Responsibilities include:

• Produces daily and longer-term stories for online, print and radio audiences about state government and politics, with a focus on Pennsylvania’s governor and General Assembly.   
• Files audio stories – newscast spots and long-form – for the WITF and NPR radio audiences, at least 4 per week. 
• Incorporates audio, video and photographs into online coverage. 
• Uses regular feedback from newsroom supervisors and content partners to shape story selection and execution. 
• Posts stories as assigned to WITF.org and LancasterOnline.com, and provides web content for public radio network member stations. 
• Serves as a guest on WITF, NPR, and affiliate public affairs programming as requested.  
• Takes part in on-air pledge drives 
• Other duties as assigned 

Job Requirements

Requirements

•  Experience:  Two years of journalism experience. Must have experience creating stories both for radio and online audiences; experience taking high quality photographs to accompany stories is a plus; experience hosting a podcast or public affairs show a plus.  Experience with database journalism and an understanding of how to obtain useful information from databases/statistics and use it to the benefit of an engaging story is strongly preferred. 
• Software/ Technical Skills: This position requires knowledge of writing, broadcasting, editing, voice work and production, and a familiarity with recording equipment. Must be able to capture, upload, and edit high-quality photographs and video to accompany web stories. Must have knowledge of audio editing software. 
• Interpersonal Skills: Must have good news judgment; must be able to give and receive criticism: must be able to work with a diverse group of people and have the ability to interview effectively and a strong ability to gauge the quality of potential interviewees;  must have the ability to maintain high on-air standards and keep mistakes from reaching the air; must work well with those inside and outside of WITF; must work hard at maintaining contacts and sources; should have strong interviewing skills to get past public officials' talking points and bring critical information to readers and listeners; should be able to develop sources across diverse communities, to ensure a cross-section of voices are heard on air and in digital reports.  
• Communication/Language Skills:  English and communication skills are the most important skills for this position; must have a distinct writing style and be able to edit well; insightful interviewing and stylish production skills are needed; excellent writing ability, good grammar and speech skills are essential to produce reports heard by the WITF community; language and delivery are important; listening skills and ability to analyze responses in real time are crucial. This position requires the ability to work collaboratively when having work edited.  
• Problem Identification and Resolution:  Must have excellent news judgment and journalistic skills; must be able to get where the news is happening and know what to do upon arrival at an event or scene; must be creative in finding sources to get the story when phone calls and emails go unanswered; must be able and willing to work overtime if necessary to get projects completed; must be able to make mature editorial judgment regarding the accuracy and news worthiness of materials; must be able to judge how interesting a report will be to the listeners; needs to be able to edit what was taped to make it run smoothly and correctly;  mistakes can range from unnoticeable to major problems with the potential for lawsuit or loss of credibility over time, and can cause loss of listeners;  a mistake can be heard by thousands of listeners; the margin of error is very slim. This position requires the ability to quickly resolve problems by communicating with editors and others on staff. 
• Physical and Mental Demands: Must work well under tight deadline pressure and in a demanding environment; excellent organizational skills are required; needs to be able to get where the news is happening, be aware of surroundings and what needs to be done at an event; must be able to see, hear, speak, operate a computer, sit and stand for a long period of time and move freely at events; communicate in person with individuals and groups, and answer and speak on the phone; must be detail oriented, have good speech skills for frequent communication with colleagues and others outside of WITF;  must be able to operate a studio control board and recording equipment; odd and unusual hours may be required to complete assignments; must have driver’s license and access to a vehicle in order to travel within region for a story on short notice.  
• License or Certification: A valid driver’s license is required.

Powered by Journalismnext