Franklin News Foundation · 1 day ago
Illinois Print & Radio Reporter
Franklin News Foundation is seeking a highly motivated reporter to help lead taxpayer-focused coverage of state government and other issues in Illinois. The role involves planning daily news coverage, conducting interviews, and managing distribution for radio and print publications, with a strong emphasis on accountability in government reporting.
Responsibilities
Plan daily news coverage for Illinois Radio Network and The Center Square print affiliates
Work with other staff reporters and contractors to report on the most important stories of the day in Illinois
Manage distribution for IRN to include sound clips and scripts, and print stories to publication partners
On-the-ground reporting at the Illinois Statehouse during session days and other events
Attend news conference, be prepared to ask probing questions
Develop sources, conduct interviews, write copy for print and radio publications
Work with Blue Room Stream video team during peak legislative activity
Qualification
Required
Highly motivated reporter
Government reporting experience
Strong interest and understanding of politics and public policy
Excellent writing and research abilities
Adhere to Associated Press style
Take direction well
Willing to learn from experienced editors and other journalists
Live in the region assigned
Meet sources both inside and outside of government
Look beyond government-issued press releases and reports
At least two years of government reporting experience
Proficient in understanding news and moving fast to report on breaking and developing stories
Able to navigate the legislative, executive and judicial branches for developing stories
Writing approachable news copy to distill complex issues into concise explanations
Network with sources for news tips and background
Multimedia reporting focused on utilizing video stream to pull and edit video and audio clips for affiliate use
Hosting news podcasts with a focus on objectively explaining how the government impacts taxpayers
Preferred
Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, political science, or a related field