PUBLIC SAFETY BEAT REPORTER at The Daily News-Record in Harrisonburg, Virginia

Job Description:

PUBLIC SAFETY BEAT REPORTER The Daily News-Record is seeking a passionate public safety reporter with a keen eye to cover crime, traffic, and fire & EMS in the city of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County, Virginia. This is an inperson, full-time, investigative reporting position in Harrisonburg, Va. with occasional hybrid and remote opportunities. The public safety reporter is not only responsible for holding local officials to account on issues affecting residents but also keeping the public informed and updated about crime, traffic and other public safety concerns in the city and county. The public safety reporter will cover topics across the board as they arise; which may include gun violence, homicides, abuse and other sensitive topics. The ideal candidate will bring a person interest in public safety writing and reporting. They will ask critical questions of law enforcement, criminal justice and elected officials. The reporter will investigate trends in crime and will keep the public informed up-to-the-minute on key issues and may explore questions including the following: How do state policies in the prison system and public safety legislation affect incarcerated people in Rockingham County, including those extradited to Rockingham County Regional Jail in Harrisonburg? What public safety stories are not being told due to pressures from large local organizations in Harrisonburg including universities and retirement homes to promote Harrisonburg as safer than it actually is? How is the fentanyl crisis affecting families and school systems in Rockingham County and what potential legislation should residents be aware of in Rockingham County? How are I-81 road improvements affecting traffic for locals and are there any trends in incidences associated with these improvements? Responsibilities Juggle important coverage of hard-hitting stories in the areas of business and technology, housing, local government and healthcare; across different story lengths and formats. Build relationships with everyday residents of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County, including refugees and migrants, farmers, convicts, homeless individuals, social workers, police officers, doctors, nurses, teachers, parents, property owners, college students and tourists. Pitch investigative and analytical stories on crime and public safety trends and issues. Cover traffic, occasional court cases and occasional breaking news. Regularly cover road closures, crime, vehicle crashes and fires. Visit crime scenes; conduct interviews with victims, witnesses and suspects to gain information for a story. Communicate frequently with Harrisonburg Police Department, Rockingham County Sheriffs Office, Virginia State Police, VDOT and the local fire departments. Qualifications / Skills Organized and quick writing skills Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing Good character and judgement Must have the ability to walk long distances Must possess a valid Virginia drivers license Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Preferred Skills / Qualifications Background and experience in journalism/reporting Experience writing content for print and web using Associated Press style Experience using social media Salary and Hours This is an in-person, full-time position in Harrisonburg, VA with occasional hybrid/remote opportunities. The work environment is a small newsroom. The Daily News-Record offers competitive pay based on qualifications. Expected work hours are set at 40 hours per week. Flexible schedule. Candidate will be expected to work evenings and weekends when needed. Inclusion in Virginia Press Association awards contest. How to Apply Interested applicants may apply by emailing a cover letter and three news clips, or writing samples, to apply by emailing a cover letter and three news clips, or writing samples, to jobs@dnronline.com.
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