KOTV Helicopter Video Journalist

Griffin Media - Tulsa, OK

Full-time - Entry Level

Onsite - Tulsa, OK

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

As a Helicopter Video Journalist at News On 6, you will play a crucial role in delivering high-quality aerial footage of news, sports, and severe weather events. This position requires a strong understanding of photojournalism principles and the ability to operate the onboard camera and transmitter system in the station's newsgathering helicopter. You will be responsible for shooting and transmitting live aerial video, ensuring that the footage meets the standards of good photojournalism. In addition to capturing video, you will also produce and edit content for television broadcasts, station websites, and social media platforms. Your role will involve not only technical skills but also a commitment to teamwork and collaboration. You will work closely with other departments to ensure a smooth presentation of news stories and may fill in as a photojournalist or newscast editor when the helicopter is unavailable. Staying informed about current events and utilizing social media for storytelling will be essential aspects of your daily responsibilities. This full-time position requires flexibility, as you may be called upon to work additional hours or days to cover vacations, illnesses, breaking news, or special projects. The job is not eligible for remote work, and travel without advance notice may be necessary. The ideal candidate will embody the qualities of humility, hunger, and interpersonal intelligence, contributing positively to the team environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate the onboard camera and transmitter to broadcast aerials of news, sports, and weather events.
• Record sound and pictures on video for broadcasts and all digital platforms, displaying awareness of the elements of good photojournalism.
• Apply editing skills for stories.
• Organize video for broadcasting and all digital platforms.
• Avoid potential technical problems.
• Work with other departments to ensure smooth presentation.
• Write news copy and travel to news scenes to cover stories as needed.
• Maintain awareness of current events.
• Use social media as part of daily storytelling.
• Stay in contact with the Assignment Desk throughout the shift.
• Organize video for news broadcasts.
• Maintain operational status of assigned equipment.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned, including driving an automobile for company business.

Requirements

• Minimum two years college or trade school with emphasis on Radio/TV or Journalism.
• Minimum two years news photography experience at a network affiliate.
• Must be able to operate all editing and recording equipment.
• Knowledge of Avid non-linear editing preferred.
• Willingness to adapt to ever-changing technology and an evolving newsroom.
• Knowledge of journalistic standards necessary and ability to perform appropriately on camera.
• Accurate and comprehensive writing, shooting, and editing skills as well as good communication skills.
• Ability to work well with others and a willingness to help others when the need arises in all aspects of newsgathering.
• Ability to work with a reporter or alone in the field to capture the story under tight deadlines.
• Creative and passionate storyteller with an understanding of the National Press Photographers Association philosophies and practices.
• Must have, or be able to obtain, a valid Oklahoma driver's license and have a driving record acceptable to the company.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with live broadcasting and news production environments.
• Familiarity with social media platforms for news dissemination.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines and manage time effectively.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage.
• Paid time off for vacations and personal days.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.