Space Reporter

FLORIDA TODAY, part of the USA TODAY Network, is seeking an ambitious reporter to cover our premier beat, space. You’d become the second person in a two-person team to provide live launch coverage from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Kennedy Space Center. You would also work to develop enterprise/watchdog stories with a strong focus on how the space industry impacts Brevard County from economic development to innovation and tourism. Even better if you can help track the money powering the space industry, whether it is taxpayer dollars or private investment.

We’re looking for a journalist who won’t lose sight of what the story means for our local community.

Space is the premier beat at FLORIDA TODAY, which is the hometown newspaper of KSC and Cape Canaveral. Candidates are not expected to have technical knowledge of rocket propulsion or orbital mechanics. The successful candidate, will, though have a keen intellect, a lively curiosity and desire to learn. We value accuracy, fairness and f earless reporting . This is an exciting time in the space industry and we want someone who can capture and convey that excitement but also not shy away from hard questions. If you settle for simplistic answers or are afraid to ask follow-up questions, this is not the job for you

Our space coverage will give you an immediate statewide and national platform on key stories, and as part of the USA TODAY Network there is room to advance. This position does require some late night, weekend and holiday hours depending on the launch schedule. As this is a two-person team, you need to be able to work well with others.

Brevard County has a population of more than 600,000; many of the leading aerospace companies, such as SpaceX, Blue Origin and Boeing, have offices here. We’re surrounded by water and beautiful parks. The communities that make up the Space Coast are growing and we’re a short drive from Orlando.

Requirements

Bachelors' degree in Journalism, Communication, or s omething comparable ;
Experience reporting and writing or tell us why your experience corresponds;
Valid driver's license
Ability to meet deadlines, take initiative, receive constructive feedback and work as part of a team

This position is full-time with benefits and you'll be based in our office in Rockledge.

We'll only consider candidates who include a cover letter to tell us why you’re right for this job.

We are dedicated to improving our newsroom, in part by better reflecting the people we cover. We are committed to diversity and building an inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds.

About

We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don’t limit your upload to a resume; show us what you’ve done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order:

Your resume – one to two pages.
A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what you’ve produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role.

It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.