Multimedia Journalist

Whec-Tv - Rochester, NY

Full-time

Rochester, NY

Broadcasting and Content Providers

About the position

The Multimedia Journalist position is a dynamic role responsible for covering news for the station across various platforms. This position requires the journalist to originate and develop compelling stories for both broadcast and digital media. The journalist may receive story ideas from management but is also expected to research and gather content independently. A key aspect of the role is to write clear, accurate, and engaging stories that break down complex topics into easily understandable segments. The journalist must ensure that any visuals used are relevant, appropriate, and impactful, enhancing the storytelling process. In addition to writing, the Multimedia Journalist will present live scripted and unscripted news reports, which may include live coverage from the scene of breaking news, the newsroom, or the studio. The role involves traveling to various locations to gather video and other information necessary for broadcast. The journalist will also be responsible for writing and posting stories to the station's website and other digital media platforms, frequently updating online content to keep it current and engaging. The position requires the ability to shoot steady, sequenced video with good audio quality for news, weather, and sports segments under tight deadlines. Editing skills are crucial, as the journalist will edit video for news stories using various techniques and editing machines, either at the station or remotely. The journalist must complete assignments according to established deadlines and maintain extensive community contacts while staying aware of local and national current events. The role also includes making promotional and community appearances as required, communicating frequently with colleagues in the newsroom, and contributing to the overall team effort to provide the best possible local television journalism. The journalist must act professionally when representing the station and maintain appropriate grooming standards. Attendance at editorial and strategic meetings is expected, where the journalist will contribute story ideas regularly. Punctuality and adherence to the established schedule are essential, with flexibility to work alternate hours as needed.

Responsibilities

• Originate and develop stories for broadcast and digital.
• Research and gather content for stories.
• Write clear, accurate, and interesting stories.
• Break down complicated stories for easy understanding.
• Ensure visuals are relevant and impactful.
• Present live scripted and unscripted news reports.
• Travel to news scenes to gather video and information.
• Write and post stories to the website and digital platforms.
• Update online stories frequently.
• Shoot steady, sequenced video with good audio.
• Edit video for news stories under tight deadlines.
• Complete assignments according to established deadlines.
• Maintain community contacts and awareness of current events.
• Make promotional and community appearances as required.
• Communicate frequently and collaborate with newsroom staff.
• Contribute to team efforts for local television journalism.
• Build working relationships with co-workers and the public.
• Maintain professional grooming standards.
• Attend editorial and strategic meetings and contribute ideas.
• Report to work on time and work established hours.
• Complete other duties as requested.

Requirements

• A college degree in journalism, television, or communications or equivalent experience.
• Solid journalism background with 2 years' experience in a reporting role preferred.
• Demonstrable skills in shooting and editing video for television news.
• Valid driver's license and safe driving history.
• Knowledgeable of issues, newsmakers, and current events.
• Ability to handle various news reporting assignments.
• Familiar with contemporary news technologies for video acquisition and transmission.
• Solid writing skills required; knowledge of production values preferred.
• Ability to communicate with a variety of people in extreme circumstances.
• Ability to think quickly and respond to breaking news in high-pressure situations.
• Strong organization and live reporting skills.
• Flexibility to work any assigned shift including nights, weekends, and holidays.