Livestock Reporter

DTN is looking for a Livestock Reporter to join our team. This content provider will work with others on the DTN/Progressive Farmer livestock content team to cover topics such as cattle production, cattle business scenarios, nutrition, animal health, reproduction and related areas for cow/calf through finishing operations. While focus is on beef enterprises, the livestock reporter also will be expected to support coverage of hog, dairy and other protein production and business areas when required. Coverage will initially focus on written word, but will include audio, video and photographic content.

This Livestock Reporter will be responsible for both developing her/his own stories, handling stories assigned by senior livestock editor and managing editors, as well as aiding in developing story ideas to be written by other DTN staff and freelancers.

The ideal candidate will work with various other writers as well to develop packages and series ideas that delve into important livestock business and livestock herd management topics, and in cultivating sources both in the farm community and in livestock industries. Reporter will also work with DTN livestock analyst and other analysts to create a comprehensive coverage of key livestock business content.

Critical Knowledge Areas:

Demonstrated skills in journalistic reporting, writing and editing. Knowledge of editing and posting content within content management systems a plus.
Demonstrated news judgment in prioritizing critical beat subjects, to set and meet deadlines, and a clear understanding of the timeliness issues in digital media.
Understanding or interest in creating content that performs well in search engines, social media and other drivers specific to digital media.
Interest in data-driven reporting, using both proprietary and public data sources to guide the story line.
Ability and/or interest in understanding business side of livestock enterprises, work with other DTN editors around financial, business strategy and policy issues related to the livestock beat.
Ability to make farmers/ranchers comfortable discussing some of their most closely guarded business and business management information.
Develop ability to lead reporters and reporter teams on beat subjects when required.
Interest in working with freelance writers and photographers to supply additional content when on timely basis.
Ability to travel when required.
Other duties as assigned

Role Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in journalism or equivalent
3 years experience as reporter or editor.
Working knowledge of livestock business and interest in becoming the DTN/PF subject matter expert in those areas is beneficial.
Basic understanding of commodity markets and how livestock producers work within those markets is beneficial.
Working knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet software, digital photography, videography and social media.
Capacity to work on multiple projects for multiple venues and adhere to news deadlines.