Sports Reporter

Description:

Research possible story topics and interview people to gather related information and analysis. Write news and sports stories for print and online publication. Take photos or videos to accompany stories as assigned. May be assigned multiple areas of responsibility (beats). Stories may be breaking news, sports or feature articles.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Report and write news and sports stories for publication, describing the background and details of events.

• Cover prep sports at our three high schools in Marion County, West Virginia.

• Arrange interviews with people who can provide information about a particular story.

• Research and analyze background information related to stories in order to be able to provide complete and accurate information.

• Gather information for stories through research, interviews, experience, and attendance at meetings, events, sports, and other functions.

• Determine a story’s emphasis, length, and format, and organize material accordingly.

• Review copy and correct errors in content, grammar, and punctuation, following prescribed editorial style and formatting guidelines.

• Cover breaking news developments, crimes, sports and human interest stories as assigned.

• Meet deadlines for all pages for each publication with a consistent workflow.

• Formulate story ideas and projects for newspaper, websites and magazines.

• Ensure that news coverage follows the company News Focus(Franchise Focus, Core Focus & High Engagement Focus)

• Cultivate and maintain excellent communications with local contacts and sources.

• Check reference materials, such as books, news files, and public records in order to obtain relevant facts.

• Discuss issues with editors in order to establish priorities and positions.

• Edit work in order to meet editorial approval or to fit time or space requirements.

• Take photos or video as assigned to provide such coverage.

• Adhere to all company policies as outlines in employee handbooks.

• Other duties as assigned.

The essential duties many change as required by company needs and conditions and do not include all duties that may be assigned with this position.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Possess excellent verbal and written communications skills.

• Strong writing skills, and ability to convey information in a clear, concise and conversational manner.

• Able to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends.

• Ability to interact professionally and build relationships and sources

• Ability to shoot photos and digital video.

• Strong research skills, including the ability to navigate online search engines.

• Able to work effectively and efficiently under deadlines.

• Excellent understanding of Associated Press style.

Certifications/Licenses:       Unrestricted Driver’s Licenses

Send resumes and writing samples to Editor Eric Cravey at ecravey@timeswv.com