MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST - WDBJ

Gray Television - Roanoke, VA

Full-time - Entry Level

Roanoke, VA

101-250 employees

Broadcasting and Content Providers

About the position

The Multimedia Journalist (MMJ) at WDBJ is responsible for producing compelling news stories for television and online platforms. This role requires a creative individual with a strong work ethic and a passion for journalism, capable of writing, shooting, editing, and presenting news stories live. The MMJ will contribute innovative story ideas, work collaboratively with producers, and engage with the community while maintaining high journalistic standards.

Responsibilities

• Arrive to the editorial meeting on time with at least two story ideas for the day's newscasts.
• Assist with the overall content of news stories within newscasts and contribute to the station's goals.
• Work flexible hours and collaborate effectively with co-workers.
• Develop, investigate, write, report, and edit stories of interest.
• Write and post web stories while traveling.
• Edit packages using the Edius system.
• Follow clothing and appearance guidelines.
• Generate investigative stories using various sources.
• Work with producers to ensure story accuracy and presentation.
• Perform creative live shots and stand-ups.
• Write and post stories prior to airing on television.
• Work mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Research, gather, write, and report news stories accurately and creatively.
• Conduct interviews in the field and on set.
• Develop and maintain sources of information.
• Demonstrate sound news judgment and collaborate with others.
• Enterprise hard-news packages under tight deadlines.
• Participate in story selection meetings and contribute ideas.
• Attend community service events and meet viewers.
• Post and update stories on the web, often remotely.
• Update social media sites daily to report stories and interact with viewers.
• Maintain knowledge of the viewing area, including its history and key figures.
• Enter CG text and times into newsroom software before newscasts.
• Use appropriate lighting to enhance news presentation.
• Present TV stories in alternative ways at least twice a week.
• Produce daily one reporter package and one vo/sot/vo or other contribution.
• Provide critique, feedback, and training as part of the job.
• Communicate with web staff during breaking news events.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• At least two years of television reporting experience is preferred.
• Experience with ENPS newsroom software and/or Grass Valley non-linear editing is a plus.
• Experience with web writing and social media posts is required.
• Excellent broadcasting writing experience is a must.
• Experience with digital cameras is necessary.
• Strong understanding of daily newscast content and collaboration with producers is required.
• Excellent interview and conversational writing skills are essential.
• Strong live reporting and on-camera presentation skills are required.
• Basic computer knowledge including newsroom software and Microsoft applications is necessary.
• Ability to shoot and edit video with digital cameras is required.
• Intermediate knowledge of social media is necessary.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision is essential.
• Strong initiative, attention to detail, and ethical decision-making skills are required.
• Ability to meet tight deadlines and work well under pressure is necessary.
• Bachelor's Degree in journalism or a related field is required.
• Must hold a valid driver's license and be insurable.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with editorial leadership skills is a plus.
• Familiarity with many platforms including web, mobile, and social networks is beneficial.

Benefits

• Equal employment opportunities (EEO)
• Drug-free workplace policy
• Encouragement for vaccination against coronavirus before the first workday