State Government Journalist

Wyoming was one of seven states to receive State Government Coverage CPB funding to fill gaps identified in the State Government Coverage in Public Media survey commissioned by CPB and published in 2022 The survey found that while public media stations in all 50 states provide original state government reporting at least weekly when their legislatures are in session, five states lacked a full-time state government beat reporter based at a public media station. Through this two-year grant, Wyoming Public Media will partner with Jackson Hole Community Radio to add a multi-platform journalist covering state government and a full-time digital content coordinator, to ensure the coverage reaches the broadest audience possible.

This position specifically was created to bring state government alive through digital interaction that explains how everyday Wyomingites are affected by statehouse activity.

JOB PURPOSE:

Lead the journalism activities of the CPB-funded State Government media collaboration focusing on special assignments such as state government operation, legislation, impacts and community associations: provide reports for broadcast and digital dissemination.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Oversee and coordinate day-to-day activity of the collaboration to highlight the importance and impact of state government decisions on the citizens of Wyoming. Work with Wyoming Public Media and Jackson Hole Community Radio reporters and editors to ensure that legislative activity is tracked and reported. Monitor project content and activity for adherence to journalistic standards and a commitment to diversity coverage and practices.
Develop consistent state government coverage and content that both informs and involves Wyoming citizens in the governance process. Conduct live interviews, streaming and in-person events.
Research and provide background material for legislative activity that helps educate citizens. Work with Digital Coordinator to generate effective educational material for the web and other digital applications. Report both audio and digital stories. news magazines and podcasts.
Initiate and moderate discussions in local and regional forums pertaining to state government issues. Utilize on-site and electronic settings to bring together diverse constituencies.
Work with project leadership and business managers to accurately capture costs and activities.
Identify statewide media and public organizations and develop statewide partnerships.
Monitor control room operations and collaborate to make improvements. Assist in station management. Follow station/network strategic organizational plans.
Provide year-long coverage and in-depth reporting on Wyoming’s legislature in Cheyenne and its impacts on Wyoming communities. Follow major bills throughout the year to track their progress and effectiveness for the constituencies they affect. Cover legislative sessions for local, state, and national audiences. Pay attention to issues developing in the state house.
Travel to and from meetings and other events to gather news.

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS:

Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

COMPETENCIES:

Adaptability
Analysis/Problem Identification
Stress Tolerance
Work Standards
Formal Presentation Skills
Consistency

REMOTE WORK ELIGIBILITY:

This position is based in Cheyenne to facilitate State Government Reporting with remote connections to Laramie.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in journalism or related field.
Experience: 3 years of reporting experience in a broadcast position in radio and multi-media platforms.
Required licensure, certification, registration, or other requirements: Valid driver's license with a motor vehicle record (MVR) that is compliant with the University Vehicle Use Policy.