TCPalm/Treasure Coast Newspapers, tcpalm.com , part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking an environment reporter.
The beat focuses on:
Endangered species, environmental degradation and clean-water issues caused by overdevelopment, agricultural pollution and Florida's manmade plumbing system
Local issues, with the opportunity to elevate those subjects to the state and national level
Enterprise, analysis and investigations (e xposing problems and analyzing the pros and cons of possible solutions)
Holding the government and elected officials accountable for those problems and solutions
This reporter must:
Quickly learn our complex and protracted environmental issues, especially Lake Okeechobee discharges, toxic algae, manatee deaths, etc.
Quickly, thoroughly and confidently learn and execute the heavy math, science and data reporting/visualization essential for this beat
Win the trust of sources in the sugar industry, Army Corps of Engineers, South Florida Water Management District, governor's office, etc.
Be an organized and adept time manager who can juggle dailies, short-term enterprise/analyses and longer-term investigations
The ideal candidate is an:
Independent self-starter who can quickly learn our publishing platform, SEO, data visualization, etc.
Curious and analytical person who's always asking questions beyond the 5Ws
Determined and persistent bulldog who gets answers despite uncooperative sources
Meticulous fact-checker who verifies claims through public records
Solid journalist who quickly produces stories that are well-reported, written and organized
Requirements:
A bachelor's or master's in communications, journalism or a related field
3 years' experience in a daily, digital-first newsroom
Strong skills in spelling, grammar, punctuation, AP style, communication, news judgment, headline writing
Ability to produce photos and videos on a smartphone, and graphics such as Infogram
Proficiency on social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Reddit, etc.
Being comfortable branding yourself and promoting your content
Ability to multitask under deadline pressure and work efficiently and collaboratively
An acceptance and understanding of how digital analytics inform our coverage, and a willingness to evaluate how content is resonating with our audience and to change what's not
Working nights, weekends and holidays as needed
Valid driver's license, reliable transportation and minimum state-required liability insurance
Employment is contingent on passing a pre-employment, post-offer drug screen and background check
When you apply, attach a single document file that includes:
1-page resume
1- page cover letter
Links to your best 3-5 stories
Here's what we have to offer:
We offer a competitive base salary and career growth opportunities. We also offer you a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, Paid Time Off, Company Paid Holidays, employee discount program and domestic partner benefits. Our 401(k) is topnotch and the contributions you make, up to the first 5% are eligible for a 100% Company match!