Transportation Reporter

The Chicago Tribune is looking for an agile and versatile reporter to cover transportation and aviation on the Business desk. This reporter will cover all forms of transportation and the companies and agencies that provide it during an unprecedented period of post-COVID change.

What you will do:

Report on the many ways Chicagoans move around; You'll cover local transit service, Chicago-based United Airlines, the city's two airports, major road projects, regional railroad operations and more

Deliver breaking news stories quickly and cleanly, while also identifying and developing distinctive enterprise and watchdog stories that set our coverage apart

Become the go-to source for local transportation news by developing an understanding of the issues and trends in our region and producing contextualized stories through a Midwest lens

Work with your editor to set priorities for producing a mix of short-, mid- and long-term news and enterprise reporting, both assigned and self-generated

What you will bring:

Versatility and the ability to juggle multiple stories at once on a wide-ranging and busy beat

Creativity, doggedness and problem-solving skills in tackling roadblocks in newsgathering and idea generation

An ability to write clearly, with leads that command attention, nut graphs that make sense and necessary background and context

A track record of providing balanced coverage and tackling complex subjects

A working knowledge of transportation issues, or a willingness to develop an understanding of this sector

The facility to cultivate sources and help identify stories and coverage opportunities

The ability to work with data and quickly file and organize FOIAs is a plus

An ethical and collaborative approach

Benefits and Compensation:

The hourly range is $26.45 - $28.55. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to geographic location, education, work experience, time in role, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, the Company offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, 401k, as well as paid time off and select paid holidays (all benefits are based on eligibility). Please click the following link for more detailed information: http://www.mybensite.com/tribpub

Who we are:

Founded in 1847, the Chicago Tribune, is the top source of news and information in the Chicago area and the largest news organization in the Midwest. The Tribune, winner of 27 Pulitzer Prizes, is known for its innovative investigative reporting, insightful coverage of the arts and culture, and community-leading opinion writing. As the cornerstone of Chicago Tribune Media Group (CTMG), the Chicago Tribune anchors a diverse network of publications. This includes six daily suburban papers, over 30 hyperlocal weeklies, Chicago Magazine, and digital offerings that inform, engage and connect communities.

EEO Statement:

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

How To Apply:

Please submit an online application along with your resume for this position here https://myworkdaycenter.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/TPCO/job/Chicago-Illinois/Transportation-Reporter_R2407. Along with your resume, please include a cover letter and links to five clips showcasing your skills and range in the resume section of your application.

Closing Date:

Continuous recruitment until the position is filled

Conditions of Employment:

A full pre-employment background check, and MVR will be conducted as part of the selection process. Must be willing to submit and pass the necessary required checks

Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and have reliable transportation

Travel – This position entails occasional driving for work assignments, training sessions, and/or in-person meetings. The employee will be responsible for transporting themselves between different sites as needed

Must be available for shift work. May be required to work various hours for coverage outside of normal business hours