Statewide Reporter
MassLive is seeking a Statewide News Reporter who can develop rich connections with sources throughout Massachusetts to not only break news but also dig deeper to write Big J, issues-based stories that delve into timely issues and trends, holds leaders accountable, and prompt change.
The reporter will need to be able to travel across the state as news dictates.
The right candidate should be versatile, able to make themselves an expert on whatever is thrown their way, but they also should have or be able to build an expertise in a couple of subjects that interest them and our readers. Topics that matter most to our readers throughout Massachusetts include housing, development, social justice issues, education and “pocketbook issues."
This curious journalist should be skilled at cultivating sources across Massachusetts and zeroing in on ideas for enterprise and watchdog stories. We want someone who can analyze data, dig through public records and knock on doors to get stories no one else has. We want a wordsmith who can engage readers with lively, conversational writing who also understands the impact of visual storytelling.
This reporter will strive produce 1-2 multi-source, originally reported, issues-based stories a week but may occasionally be called upon as needed in our fast-paced, dynamic newsroom to help turn a story around the same day. Stories will generally both be reactive – think: day-2 story on the news of the day – and proactive, with planned-out enterprise projects. One to three major projects and investigative work a year are in the mix.
MassLive is the largest digital news website in Massachusetts, according to comScore. We thrive on delivering breaking news to readers wherever they are, quickly, as well as reporting deep-dive investigative journalism that matters to readers throughout the state.
MassLive has developed into a digital leader, covering every corner of the state. MassLive has offices in Springfield and Worcester and workspace in and around Boston. In addition to breaking, trending, enterprise and investigative news stories, MassLive also provides award-winning pro sports coverage with beat writers traveling with the New England Patriots, Boston Red Sox and Boston Celtics, in addition to high school sports coverage.
You should apply to our Statewide News Reporter role if you:
Are a proven reporter who can work with efficiency, creativity, accuracy and good judgment
Really want to be first to report something
Are able to dig beyond the surface of a story, to explore complex issues and make them understandable for the reader
Engage on social media platforms regularly and follow trends
Are a news junkie with a pulse on the big stories happening at any given moment
Have humility, a sense of humor, relentless curiosity and bring passion to your reporting
Have skills in digital storytelling via text, photo and video
Job requirements include:
Degree in journalism, communications, or related field or related experience
Proven talent in journalism reporting and writing with at least 4-5 years' experience
Experience building, maintaining, and engaging an active audience
Ability to work independently under deadline pressure and prioritize tasks appropriately
Solid understanding of news writing, journalistic ethics and story structure
Demonstrated capability in capitalizing on high-value topics by engaging audiences in frequency and urgency
Mastery of social media and digital interaction
Skills for utilizing a broad set of tools to tell stories and engage the audience
This position will require attendance for some in office meetings and company events.
Candidate must have reliable transportation to meet with sources and cover events.
When applying, share clips or links to your reporting work.