Maine Reporter(s)

Be part of a dynamic new Maine newsroom and give readers hard-hitting government coverage that connects state policy to the people who live it.

States Newsroom in Maine will be dedicated to serving as a government watchdog, covering policy, politics, and other stories of statewide interest. We want reporters who can provide important information to readers about elected officials, how public money is spent, and the ways that policy decisions affect people all over the Pine Tree State.

Three reporters will be based in Augusta, Portland, or another city that will allow them to meaningfully report on how state government affects Mainers. They will cover the Legislature, governor’s office, state agencies, elections and other assignments. The reporters will produce daily and enterprise stories, take photos, and share content on social media.

The ideal candidates will know how to track trending topics and hold officials accountable through deep source building and public records requests. The reporting will take readers beyond press releases, providing a deeper understanding of state government.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS

Produce regular, high-quality reporting on Maine state government and officials
Contribute regularly to outlet’s briefs section
Generate story ideas with the editor
Pursue story leads, both self-generated and as assigned, with self-direction and solid news judgment
Approach assignments on deadline with strong communication and follow through with the editor and colleagues
Collaborate with other reporters on projects and to share research and pertinent knowledge when/if available
Establish and expand digital media presence representing the outlet and use personal social media to amplify the site’s content, presence and voice
Take photos and video to illustrate and amplify stories

QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPENSATION

We’re looking for candidates with at least 3 years of previous news reporting and/or editing experience (student journalism counts), sound news judgment, flexibility, and the ability to manage ongoing and short-term projects with strong attention to detail and accuracy. Knowledge of Maine’s political landscape and leaders, previous digital, photography and/or videography experience, and an entrepreneurial spirit are strong assets. States Newsroom journalists are expected to produce at least four posts per week.

Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. Authorization to work in the United States is required. All States Newsroom employees are required to be fully vaccinated within 30 days of hire.

The salary for these reporting positions starts at $50,000 and rises with experience. Our generous benefits package includes:

Premium-free platinum healthcare for employees and their families (i.e., nothing comes out of your paycheck!)
4 weeks of vacation per year
2 weeks of personal leave per year
20 hours of paid volunteer time per year
7 holidays and 4 floating holidays
$75 monthly cell phone reimbursement
$200 cell phone replacement benefit every two years
$75 monthly fitness benefit
401K with up to 3% match
12 weeks of paid parental leave
Full-service EAP
Annual DeleteMe subscription

New laptop and any necessary equipment will be provided by States Newsroom.