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Overview The Freelance General Assignment Reporter covers news of local relevance and often national significance across all KPBS beats, as directed. The reporter will work collaboratively with beat reporters, and at the direction of the News Editor. The reporter will also work in coordination with other members of the News Division.
KPBS beats involve taking complex concepts and rendering them into accessible and compelling stories. These stories will be carefully grounded in fact, but can still be playful or moving as the subject matter requires.
KPBS news beats are, but not exclusive to, arts & culture, border, education, environment, health, investigative, metro, and military.
The Reporter will pitch news stories, or be assigned stories by the editors, that can be distributed on KPBS radio, TV, KPBS.org, KPBS social networking and KPBS mobile. The news stories will be produced in formats for radio newscasts, in-depth radio features, TV packages, multi-media projects and special reports as assigned. The Reporter works closely with online producers and editors to create original content in support of beat reporting.
The Reporter may be assigned to anchor radio newscasts, and appear as a guest or host on KPBS TV and radio programs. The Reporter is expected to participate in station on-air fundraising activities, and make appearances for KPBS community-building events and other public relations activities.
Perks you'll enjoy as a member of #teamKPBS
- Working on a college campus & in public media (access to campus facilities and staff discounts, farmer's market Tuesday's, tons of eateries, community events, entertainment)
- Hybrid schedule, remote work flexibility & casual work attire
- Enjoy a 'beautiful day in the neighborhood' with local employee discounts
- Opportunity drawings to attend SDSU basketball games, local concerts, and events
- Free wellness classes & programs
- Monthly pop-up events for staff & KPBS swag
- Sick leave accruals
- On-site childcare at a discounted rate
- Opportunities for continued learning and professional development
- Employee assistance program
- Voluntary retirement savings plan
This position is filled on an on-call, as-needed basis with no set schedule. Rate is $25/hr.
Responsibilities News Reporting and Producing (80%)
KPBS News Reporters have a bevy of options to employ when providing news content: spot news, feature reports, cut and copy, live debrief, tape talk, field packages, photos, video, audio, blog posts, and newscasts. The primary flow of work will be to start a story online, shoot video on the topic and edit it or work in partnership with a videographer for longer pieces as needed, and move the gathered content effectively across all news platforms.
The reporter, at the direction of the Director of News and Editorial Strategy, will follow the KPBS Strategic Plan and Editorial Vision.
The reporter researches topics, develops contacts and interviews sources, maintains notes and broadcast recordings, writes and edits reports, produces and voices reports for air, and works with a production unit to produce TV and multi-media productions.
Possesses excellent storytelling skills and high journalistic standards
Planning (15%)
Reads and follows major developments on general stories, and especially on issues s/he has covered in the past
Maintains diverse contact lists and files for on-going continuity of coverage and accumulation of knowledge
Brainstorms story ideas with reporters, supervisor, producers and digital team.
Other Duties as Assigned (5%)
Qualifications Knowledge and Abilities
Demonstrated excellence in news judgment and ability to generate engaging story ideas.
Ability to think creatively about topics and story angles.
Knowledge and adherence to high ethical standards.
Ability to start stories online first.
Knowledge of standard English grammar, spelling and AP Style.
Ability to meet deadlines, handle multiple stories at once, and shift gears quickly.
Ability and willingness to work varied shifts.
Proven ability to consistently work well with editors and station colleagues, demonstrating at all times respect for the diverse constituencies at KPBS and within the public broadcasting system.
Reliable transportation, valid driver's license and proof of insurance required.
Understand and follow posted work rules and procedures
Highly motivated self-starter.
Be able to work in breaking news situations.
Minimum Experience
Minimum two years professional, progressively responsible experience in journalism.
Minimum Education
Bachelors degree or equivalent work in journalism.
Preferred Qualifications
Fluency in Spanish/other languages
Public media experience
Data reporting
Wideo and audio recording, editing software; Ability to shoot and edit video; Ability to successfully engage audience via social media; Knowledge of current San Diego and regional issues.
Additional Applicant Information:
Applicant must live in a commutable distance from SDSU
A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position with SDSU Research Foundation
San Diego State University Research Foundation is an EEO/AA/Disability/Vets Employer
Founded in 1897, San Diego State University is a public institution of higher education located in southern California. SDSU is the oldest and largest university in San Diego and the third largest in the state. SDSU continues to gain recognition as a leader in higher education.Join SDSU and make a difference through meaningful work that contributes to knowledge and provides rich opportunities for students. The dynamic synergy between SDSU and the San Diego region furthers SDSU's excellence and global impact. Every member of our team can proudly proclaim, "I Am SDSU."In addition to SDSU, three not-for-profit auxiliary employers operate to provide services for the University. The SDSU Research Foundation furthers the educational, research and community service mission of SDSU. Aztec Shops provides a diverse portfolio of products and services including operation of the SDSU Bookstore, SDSU Dining, and management of commercial and real estate properties surrounding the campus. Associated Students of SDSU is a student-directed organization that manages programs and facilities enjoyed by students, faculty, staff, and the community-at-large.
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