Suburban Reporter

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel /jsonline.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking a reporter to join our team that covers Milwaukee-area suburban communities.

We’re looking for an energetic, hard-working journalist who will become a must-follow source for what is happening in those communities, and what it means. This reporter will provide meaningful coverage for residents, including quick-response breaking news, business, politics, local government, features and more.

In addition to serving residents in their specific coverage area, this reporter should be on the lookout for stories that transcend an individual community and would resonate with audiences across the full Milwaukee area.

The ideal candidate has solid reporting and writing skills, natural curiosity and an ability to identify stories that will help bring in new readers. This includes being able to determine the best way to tell individual stories, from text to audio to video to Q&A or other alternative formats. This reporter must have a passion for telling stories quickly when needed, in-depth when called for, and always with accuracy.

Stories run in three weekly print sections in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, but the primary focus is delivering sharp, thoughtful, relevant daily coverage online.

The successful applicant will have a bachelor’s degree, preferably in journalism, as well as practical experience in media (including college programs). Familiarity with the suburbs of Southeastern Wisconsin is a plus.

Responsibilities

Creates storytelling that accurately informs, entertains and engages specific audiences and platforms through the use of metrics.
Works toward becoming the community’s leading voice in area of expertise.
Connects with the community through storytelling and outreach (social media, on camera, forums, community leadership, etc.) Provides thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
Works with content strategist to evaluate what's working and what's not and develops ongoing plans to better satisfy audience needs.
Collaborates with content team to provide all appropriate elements for stories (i.e. photos, videos and graphics). Captures basic photos and video as needed.
Promotes personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.
Provides great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in journalism or related field -- or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Adept at taking photos and video with a cellphone.
Strong command of AP grammar and style.
Ability to effectively work remotely, whether at home or from the field. We provide a laptop.
The ability to produce content that is clean, accurate and publication ready.
Passionate and enthusiastic about hyperlocal news.
A desire to grow and develop a key beat in our network.
Understand reporting ethics and sourcing.
Collaborate well with others.
This role requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
Employment is contingent on passing a pre-employment, post-offer drug screen, motor vehicle record check and background check.