Enterprise and Watchdog Reporter

USA Today Co • Iowa City, IA

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About The Position

The Iowa City Press-Citizen/press-citizen.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking a news reporter to produce enterprise and watchdog work focusing on government accountability, public safety and growth and development in Iowa City and Johnson County, Iowa. This is a fast-paced position at a daily, digital-first news outlet. This reporter will monitor the workings of city and county government and public safety but will focus on developing enterprise relevant to readers’ lives. Iowa City, home to the University of Iowa, and its suburbs are one of the fastest-growing metros in Iowa. This reporter will keep residents up to date on breaking news, plans for housing and amenities. Database, Spanish language and video skills are a plus. This reporter is expected to consistently break exclusive news and to post stories, photos and video quickly and accurately across platforms: mobile, desktop and social media. Source development, from public officials to community activists to small business owners and citizens, is critical to the beat. This reporter will be called up to contribute, as needed, to the Des Moines Register and others in the USA TODAY Network, including USA TODAY. The successful applicant will work on a four-journalist team, which includes a news reporter, a photojournalist, a sports reporter and an editor. They will be included in Des Moines Register and national training opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or master’s in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Two years of experience in journalism writing and reporting or substantial internship or fellowship experience.
• Understanding of metrics, social media and SEO.
• Solid news judgment.
• Self-motivation and self-direction.
• Top-notch planning, organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to multi-task and excel under intense deadline pressure in a rapidly changing environment.
• Command of media law and principles of ethical conduct.
• This role requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.

Nice To Haves

• Database, Spanish language and video skills are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Use metrics and analytics to determine how to best reach and grow the audience.
• Increase digital audience engagement and grow digital subscriptions.
• Be courageous about experimentation.
• Be a team player who likes to collaborate with coworkers.
• Apply innovative, creative thinking to support the company’s goals.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level