Public Affairs Reporter

The Public Affairs Reporter produces a mix of in-depth and daily news stories on public affairs issues in Springfield and Greene County. The reporter plays a key role in helping the Springfield Daily Citizen fulfill its mission to inform the community and be a catalyst for good. The reporter will develop a broad range of sources, including leaders of local nonprofits, to become a recognized expert on public affairs topics identified as key issues by the community through local efforts such
as the biennial Community Focus Report for Springfield and Greene County.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
Four-year degree in journalism or related field, or experience commensurate with four-year degree.
Minimum of 5 years daily journalism or similar experience and demonstrated reporting, editing,
and digital content skills.

ABILITIES/SKILLS
1) Must demonstrate advanced understanding of the skills needed to report and write news and features stories, with a focus on producing clear and concise content to serve an audience using multiple digital platforms.
2) Must have advanced knowledge of spelling, grammar and story organization.
3) Must be able to generate strong enterprise stories; and must have a proven record of
generating ideas for stories.
4) Must be able to consistently report and write multi-layered stories that use a multitude of
sources.
5) Must demonstrate investigative reporting skills and ability to overcome obstacles to get
hard-to-gather stories (such as those with reluctant sources).
6) Must have ability to manipulate data using Excel or database software; ideally has the
capacity to develop advanced skills in database journalism.
7) Ability to adapt to a varied workload and varied work days.
8) Strong communication skills, including addressing inquiries from readers and the public.
9) Strong knowledge of libel, media law, First Amendment and state Sunshine Law.
10) Adhere to Daily Citizen standards of ethical conduct.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES
 Works closely with the CEO, Managing Editor and other staff members to formulate and execute the in-depth public affairs coverage plan for the Springfield Daily Citizen.
 Regularly produces two in-depth public affairs stories each month, and one major project each year. Each in-depth story or project should be produced in the “Daily Citizen Way,” including elements to engage citizens across political and social spectrums, encourage discourse, strengthen democracy and/or foster participation as citizens and/or volunteers.
o A typical in-depth report will feature multiple sources and either be explanatory or revealing in nature, and occasionally just fun or entertaining.
o A major report should be multi-layered and data-supported, producing surprising findings or “new” news for Daily Citizen readers; such reports should be designed with community impact in mind.
 Produces 2-3 daily or breaking news stories each week, primarily in core topic areas of
recognized expertise.

PAY LEVEL: $46,000 to $58,000