We’re looking for a Dashiell Hammett on deadline to cover the hottest crime news in the nation.

We need a night cops/general assignment reporter who writes fast and hard with passion and flair and style. An aggressive mug who can think at a dead run in a 24-hour news town where maybe you’re coaxing quotes from the neighbors at a triple murder and next thing you know you’re chasing after Paris Hilton in handcuffs. A pushy sort who can turn cab drivers and waitresses into sources, and persuade tough cops to spill. A smart cookie who can bang out a brief and then tease a front-page reader from a detail, a document and a gut feeling. An independent self-starter who enjoys watchdog and investigative reporting for online and print. Computer-assisted reporting, video and social media skills are a plus.

The Review-Journal is Nevada’s leading news organization in print and on the web, an equal-opportunity employer and a drug-free workplace. A pre-employment drug test is mandatory.

To apply, email a cover letter, resume and your three best writing samples to James G. Wright, Deputy Editor, at jwright@reviewjournal.com. Please put “reporter positions” and your name in the subject line. Applicant review will begin May 13.