Journalist Job Description Template

Use this Journalist job description template to advertise the open roles for free using Longlist.io. You can use this template as a starting point, modify the requirements according the needs of your organization or the client you are hiring for.

Journalist Job Description Template

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Job Brief

We are looking for an enthusiastic Journalist to contribute in the publication of timely and accurate news. The successful candidate will be a skilled writer with a passion for the job capable of both informing and entertaining our readers.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct research to uncover interesting and significant news
  • Gather, corroborate and interpret data
  • Interview key persons (witnesses, sources etc.) to obtain more information
  • Use findings to construct a well-written article
  • Retain awareness of the readers’ point of view
  • Obtain first-hand information by being present in happenings
  • Receive assignments or investigate news leads/tips
  • Comply with the moral code of the profession
  • Maintain notes and audio recordings
  • Partner with other journalists, editors, producers etc
  • Establish contacts and sources for use in future research
  • Keep abreast on developments by studying papers, attending events etc.

Requirements

  • Proven working experience as a Journalist or Reporter
  • Portfolio of published articles or newscasts
  • Ability to follow strict deadlines and fast-check information
  • Current knowledge of headlines
  • Computer proficiency (MS Office, digital editing, web search, databases)
  • Excellent communication and networking skills along with an aptitude in extracting information
  • Good observation and deduction skills
  • Integrity and morality
  • BSc degree in journalism or relevant field

What does Journalist do?

A journalist typically performs a range of tasks on a day-to-day basis, which can vary depending on the type of journalism they engage in, such as investigative journalism, broadcast journalism, or news reporting. Here are some common activities:

  1. Researching: Journalists spend a considerable amount of time researching and gathering information on various topics, events, or stories.

  2. Conducting interviews: They arrange and conduct interviews with sources, experts, or eyewitnesses to gather firsthand information and quotes.

  3. Writing articles: Journalists write articles, news reports, features, or opinion pieces based on the information they gather. This involves writing, editing, and proofreading.

  4. Fact-checking: Ensuring accuracy and fact-checking information is an essential part of a journalist's work. Verifying sources and cross-checking information helps maintain credibility.

  5. Attending events/press conferences: Journalists often attend events, press conferences, or briefings to gather information and ask questions directly to relevant individuals.

  6. Pitching stories: Journalists may need to pitch story ideas or proposals to their editors or newsrooms to get approval for future coverage.

  7. Collaborating with teams: Journalists often work closely with editors, photographers, videographers, and other team members to create multimedia content or articles.

  8. Networking: Building and maintaining contacts within the industry, including sources, experts, and fellow journalists, is essential for journalists to stay updated and pursue stories.

  9. Monitoring news/developments: Journalists constantly stay informed about current events, breaking news, and ongoing developments to find potential story angles or follow up on existing stories.

  10. Working against deadlines: Meeting deadlines is crucial in journalism. Journalists must manage their time efficiently to ensure timely and accurate reporting.

It's important to note that the tasks performed by journalists can vary depending on the type of media organization they work for and the specific demands of their role.

Journalist Job Description Examples

Journalist• Seven Network

Join the Media Company of the future!• Thrive in an exciting, busy and dynamic news environment• Be part of a highly trained, fun, supportive, high-performing team...• At Seven we are committed to both your professional and personal growth

A new and exciting opportunity is available for a Journalist to join the Seven Orange News team working across our regional markets. This role demands ex...

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Multimedia Journalist Ii• Cox Enterprises

Access Atlanta, an entertainment and things to do brand covering metro Atlanta, is seeking a multimedia photojournalist to join its team. Candidates must have sound news judgment and be able to produce storytelling video from everyday and project-level assignments.

The Access Atlanta team produces editorial content covering the thriving entertainment and music scene in Atlanta, along with... e...

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Multimedia Journalist – Spectrum News Washington, Dc• SPECTRUM

Spectrum Networks is looking for enthusiastic, talented and driven individuals to join the best and brightest in gathering, producing and delivering stories that make a difference within our community! Our commitment is to engage viewers with relevant, character-driven stories that are important to the local communities we serve.

Who we are: Spectrum Networks is a series of 30 + local news and...

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Multimedia Journalist - Wdam• Gray Television

About Gray Television:

Gray Television is a leading media company that owns and operates high-quality stations in 113 television markets that collectively reach 36 percent of US television households...

We constantly strive for excellence. Through upgrading to the latest technology and seeking new ways to stay on top in our markets, we focus on training and development of the best and brighte...

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