Sports Reporter

Sports Reporter

The Soo News/sooeveningnews.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is looking for a sports reporter to join the team!

The ideal candidate will write, and report compelling sports journalism that continuously grows our readership and subscriber base by informing and engaging readers. 

Other essential job duties:

• Provide thoughtful analysis of trends in sports-related issues.
• Produce storytelling journalism that meets audience needs and interests on every platform.

Job details:

Sports reporter: This reporter will concentrate on high school and community sports coverage throughout Chippewa County, primarily the city of Sault Ste. Marie and surrounding communities, while building relationships with coaches, athletic directors and community leaders for engaging features.

The reporter must build a brand of local content that connects with local residents and then engage with this audience, following guidance on content choices. This reporter pays close attention to all readership metrics to shape content decisions and avoids boring traditional content while trying new ideas.

Responsibilities:

• Goes beyond the average game story by finding the story and moments within each game that will engage the readers.
• Works toward becoming the community's leading voice for the Soo sports scene.
• Connects with the community through social media, including Twitter and Facebook to keep the community engaged and interested.
• Provides thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
• Photographs games and events and creates online photo galleries.
• Works with the editor to evaluate metrics, what's working, what's not, and to develop ongoing plans to better satisfy audience needs.
• Works with and meets with sports writers from Petoskey, Gaylord and Cheboygan, sharing content and schedule plans to build Gannett’s Northern Michigan’s sports coverage.
• Provides great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.
• Performs other duties as necessary.

Knowledge and skills:

• Ability to produce top-notch sports journalism.
• Exceptional cross-platform storytelling skills.
• Exceptional core journalism skills (reporter, producing, editing).
• Self-motivation and self-direction.
• Knowledge of the Michigan High School Athletic Association, its sports, divisions athletic seasons and more.
• Be able to turn around a story quickly after game coverage.
• Advance knowledge of social media and how to engage fan base on digital platforms in public space.
• Photo and video skills.
• Effective communicator; able to get along with diverse personalities.
• Able to multi-task and excel under intense deadline pressure in a rapidly changing environment.
• Knows how to use time effectively in a 24-hour news environment.
• Works collaboratively within a cross-functional environment.
• Must embrace peer-to-peer feedback and training.
• Applies innovative, creative thinking to support the company's goals.
• Writing, spelling, grammar, AP, and local style.
• Industry knowledge.
• Organizational skills.
• Command of media law and Principle of Ethical Conduct. 

Requirements:

• Bachelor's or master’s degree in communication, journalism or related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• 0-2 years of experience with storytelling techniques on multiple platforms.
• Must have technical skills - understanding use of metrics, Microsoft Office Suite, videography, and photography.
• Must have required skills - social media, advanced storytelling, advanced analytical ability, interpersonal skills, time management, and interpersonal skills.
• This role requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
• Employment is contingent on passing a post-offer pre-employment background check, motor vehicle record check & drug screen.     

We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don’t limit your upload to a resume; show us what you’ve done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order:

1. Your resume – one to two pages.
2. A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
3. Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what you’ve produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role.

It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.

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