Newsperson (Black Church Reporter)

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world's population sees AP journalism every day.

The Associated Press seeks a talented, versatile journalist with excellent news judgment and broad knowledge of U.S. affairs to join its Religion Team. While this will be a general assignment position, we plan for this reporter to provide ongoing coverage of faith in Black communities across the U.S. – and of religious issues and faith experiences in various minority communities. This is a temporary position, funded by a grant that expires at the end of 2024, with the potential for the job to become permanent. This staff position is covered by AP’s agreement with the News Media Guild.

Responsibilities: Reporting to the Religion News Editor, you will cover breaking news and write in-depth feature stories. In this role, you will cultivate a diverse array of sources, ranging from nationally prominent leaders to grass-roots pastors, activists, people in the pews and more.

We’re looking for someone who will:

have a great news sense, with the ability to produce distinctive, compelling stories that people will want to share on social media and other platforms.

pursue innovative and inclusive journalism that maintains AP’s standards for integrity and objectivity.

be able to handle spot news coverage while sustaining progress on longer-term projects;

enjoy working as part of team – not only with colleagues on the Religion Team but also with other AP staffers across the U.S. and the world, particularly on political stories.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, such as at least three years of experience working at a daily newspaper, broadcast station, online or digital news outlet or AP bureau.

All applicants must be able to work in the U.S. or be able to gain permission to do so.

Advanced-level professional competency in written and spoken English.

Professional competency in a language besides English is a plus.

Strong interpersonal, organizational and planning skills, with the ability to juggle multiple projects across formats and deliver success on complex, challenging story lines.

We will consider strong candidates who do not meet every listed qualification. You may use a cover letter to describe the unique qualifications you would bring to this role.

This is a staff position covered by AP’s agreement with the News Media Guild.

Application deadline is 11:59pm EST on October 19, 2023.