Harrisonburg City Beat Reporter
Harrisonburg City Beat Reporter
Summary: The Daily News-Record is seeking a passionate Harrisonburg City beat reporter with a keen eye to cover business, government and investigative news in Harrisonburg, Va. This is an in-person, full-time position in Harrisonburg, VA with occasional hybrid / remote opportunities. The work environment is a newsroom. The Harrisonburg City reporter is responsible not only for holding city officials accountable but also for investigating trends in business, housing and health. Forces that be are aiming to bring big tech to the Valley, but will it change the unique “friendly city” culture and agricultural heritage of the small city in the largest agriculture-producing county in the state? Will the affordable housing shortage continue to keep a tight grip on locals; while the city’s only open-to-anyone homeless shelter prepares to open in the coming years? Is leadership in local healthcare groups still forcing workers away and patients to travel far away for basic care? Will local universities continue their strained relationship with historic parts of town through demolition projects in the name of expansion? Responsibilities Juggle important coverage of hard-hitting stories in the areas of business and technology, housing, local government and healthcare; across different story lengths and formats. Build relationships with everyday residents of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County, including refugees and migrants, farmers, convicts, homeless individuals, social workers, police officers, doctors, nurses, teachers, parents, property owners, college students and tourists. Push through walls for news and answers to questions, empower sources to speak “on the record,” dig through news archives, government plans and legal documents for background. Provide great context to every story, signpost and write in a clear, concise matter. Complete assigned coverage from editor, accept and implement continuous feedback.
Requirements: Must have the ability to walk long distances. Must possess a valid Virginia driver’s license. Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Organized and quick writing skills. Compassion and the ability to communicate with all stakeholders of local issues. Good character and judgement. Ability to keep track and take notes on emerging trends
Preferred Skills / Qualifications: Background and experience in journalism / reporting. Experience writing content for print and web, using Associated Press style. Experience using social media Foreign language proficiency
Salary and Hours: This is a full-time position. Work hours are set at 40 hours. Reporters have some flexibility to create their own schedule. Wage based on qualifications. Candidate will be expected to work evenings when needed and will work one Saturday shift each month. This position will report to News Editor Victoria Young. Inclusion in Virginia Press Awards contest.
The Daily News-Record is a 11,000 print circulation newspaper currently printed in Frederick, Md. It has a 100-plus year history and was home to its own printing operation until summer 2022. The publication has been owned by Ogden Newspapers since 2018. Under the News-Record flag, the paper has continued to be a window of the Valley, the state, the nation and the world for 100 years. Combined daily print and online readership is more than 50,000. Shari Keyes currently serves as the publisher of the Daily News-Record.