Criminal Justice Reporter

The Tri-City Herald in Washington state is looking for an experienced criminal justice reporter.

This beat is all about our fascination with good versus evil, the tragedies that befall people and the storytelling we can do around conflict, violence and corruption.

You will focus on the most high profile crimes in the region as they play out in our courts, along with a regular search for compelling stories of the human condition, of people and loss in criminal and civil court cases.

You’ll be part of a small team that’s passionate about making change through local reporting that is demanding, fast-paced and constantly evolving.

You will be expected to produce at least 4 to 5 stories a week and one enterprise piece every month. The expected schedule is Monday through Friday, but will vary depending on news needs.

Responsibilities:

• Write stories on tight deadlines that are complete, fair and provide context for readers.

• Produce fast-moving, highly readable stories while also working on in-depth, topical stories.

• Use data and research to inform reporting.

• Request and track public records and use and develop databases for revelatory reporting.

• Use social media platforms both as a news-gathering tool and as a way to push the news out quickly and build our audience, as well as your own brand.

• Use SEO smartly and strategically.

• Understand and use audience metrics to help increase readership.

• Shoot photos and video when needed.

• Meet departmental goals: Help formulate goals and actively seek to meet them.

• Participate in training sessions offered and seek out learning opportunities to keep skills updated in a continuously evolving industry.

• Work collaboratively with co-workers.

Education:

• College degree, preferably in journalism or communications.

• A minimum of 2 years news writing experience.

Skills:

• Strong news judgment and knowledge of libel laws and journalistic ethics.

• Command of grammar, spelling, AP style, as well as skills in story organization and clear writing.

• An intuitive sense of what’s important and interesting to audiences on all platforms.

• A deep curiosity and high energy, and an ability to develop a variety of sources.

• The ability to write quickly, accurately and engagingly on a wide variety of topics.

• A commitment to diverse coverage through community engagement and source building.

• A collaborative work ethic and the ability to communicate easily with people around the office and across the company.

• Proficient knowledge of technology including content management systems and storytelling tools.

• Ability to quickly and accurately research and verify the authenticity of information, sources, photos and video.

• Fluency in Spanish is desirable.

• Must have reliable transportation.  Must have valid driver’s license and vehicle insurance required (at least minimum insurance required for the state in which the employee works).

Relocation assistance available.

Please include a range of samples of your work, including daily and enterprise stories, along with a cover letter and resume. You may also send links to personal websites or your portfolio.