Education Reporter

WHYY serves the Philadelphia region with trusted journalism, eye-opening storytelling and intimate local arts programming. Our curiosity and commitment to this community is what drives our programming. It’s also what drives our hiring.

Below you’ll find an employment opportunity in the fast-paced setting of the Philadelphia region’s leading public media provider. The award-winning professional staff of WHYY sets the bar high in television, radio and online. Whether it’s preparing a program to air or a behind-the-scenes role in support, all positions are vital to continuing—and growing—our impact in our community.

WHYY offers a voice to those not heard, a platform to share everyone’s stories, a foundation to empower early and lifelong learners and a trusted space for unbiased news. Learn more about our Social Responsibility Program. It’s how we live.

ABOUT THE ROLE

WHYY News is seeking an insightful Education Reporter to enrich our coverage of educational topics across the region and to prioritize education in Pennsylvania. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to various special features on our broadcast, podcast, and digital platforms.

The successful candidate will not be limited to exploring public, private, and charter school systems, but will also delve into broader educational opportunities available to students across the city. We value individuals who can unearth stories from within the education ecosystem and shed light on cultural influences and societal factors shaping it. The right candidate is an exceptional storyteller who can meet deadlines and understands the strategic use of multiple platforms for content distribution. Also, the reporter contributes to special features for use in broadcast, podcast, and digital platforms.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Research, report and write stories that uphold journalistic excellence across all publishing platforms.
Pitch in-depth and impactful story ideas at news and planning meetings.
Present compelling, relevant stories that resonate across the region and in particular on a statewide level across Pennsylvania.
Develop and write breaking news, features and interviews.
Perform editing and voice work for the production of audio journalism.
Coordinate and co-produce special projects, including long-form podcasts.
Cultivate new contacts with sources and newsmakers.
Work collaboratively with other reporters and news department staff and share information and story ideas.
Produce general assignment reporting as needed.
Prepare and write stories for publishing on the website.
Take still photos and videos for web use as applicable.
Advanced knowledge of the Associated Press Style.
Be available to work nights and/or weekends as needed to cover the beat and/or per the news cycle, if breaking or major news happens. Available to fill in on general assignments per department scheduling needs.
Meet short and long-term deadlines as assigned.
Use social media to cultivate contacts and promote work.
Maintain regular and predictable attendance.
Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: A Bachelor’s degree in journalism or communications or the equivalent experience is required.

Experience: Two years of journalism and on-air broadcasting experience