General Assignment/Government Reporter

General Assignment/Government Reporter

The Santa Maria Times is looking for a motivated and talented reporter who is eager to write about events and people in our community. The responsibilities of this position include covering Santa Maria City Council, community events and people, enterprise reporting, some cops coverage and breaking news as needed.

Qualifications

The right person must have news judgment, be a self-starter who knows how to develop a beat, and be inquisitive. Photography skills and fluency in Spanish are pluses. The full-time position will be based at our Santa Maria Times office on the beautiful Central Coast of California. Qualified candidates apply to Editor Marga Cooley at [email protected].

Key Responsibilities

• Reporting on city/county government, general assignment

• Covering breaking police and fire news as needed

• Developing sources and stories on your beat

• Attending night meetings as needed

• Work Monday through Friday, some night shifts and weekends as needed.

Required Skills

• 1-2 years reporting experience preferred.

• Photography experience a plus.

• Self-motivated, innovative, and creative.

• Must be able to manage multiple daily deadlines and multiple priorities while maintaining professionalism in the workplace.

• Possess a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism or related field.

Benefits

Excellent medical, dental and 401k options

1 week of vacation after the first year, 2 weeks after year two

5 sick days per year