GENERAL ASSIGNMENT REPORTER

VIRGINIA PRESS ASSN; Suffolk (VA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Suffolk News-Herald, part of the VIRGINIA PRESS ASSN, seeks a versatile general assignment reporter to join our newsroom. This role focuses on producing engaging and community-focused reporting across various platforms.

The candidate should have journalism experience or strong writing skills, with an emphasis on collaboration and community engagement. Responsibilities include producing timely stories, connecting with local sources, and reporting on public events in Suffolk.

Join our team to help inform and reflect the community of Suffolk!

Qualifications

• One to three years of reporting experience or strong writing samples.
• Familiarity with AP Style and basic editing or proofreading skills.
• Ability to work in a deadline-driven environment.

Responsibilities

• Produce accurate and compelling stories on various topics.
• Respond quickly to breaking news with a strong digital focus.
• Build relationships with local sources and community leaders.

Skills

Excellent writing

Strong interpersonal skills

Research abilities

Curiosity

Creativity

Education

Journalism or communications degree

Tools

Web-based CMS

Photo and video editing tools

Social media platforms

Digital analytics tools

Job description

The Suffolk News-Herald is seeking a versatile, community‑minded general assignment reporter to join our newsroom. This role is ideal for a journalist who thrives in a fast‑paced environment, values public‑service reporting, and excels at producing engaging content across multiple platforms. The successful candidate will contribute daily coverage that informs, connects, and reflects the people of Suffolk.

News Coverage & Reporting

Produce accurate, timely, and compelling stories on a wide range of topics, from public safety and courts to business, culture, and community issues.

Respond quickly to breaking news, publishing updates and visuals with a strong digital focus and meeting tight deadlines.

Research historical cases, true‑crime topics, and unresolved investigations, maintaining a pipeline of enterprise story ideas and contributing to ongoing specialty projects.

Digital & Multimedia Engagement

Work closely with digital and audience teams to apply analytics, evaluate story performance, and develop innovative ways to deliver content online.

Create and package multimedia storytelling—including photos, short videos, and social content—optimized for digital audiences.

Contribute unique features and multi‑platform presentations for special projects.

Community Connection

Build and nurture relationships with local sources, civic leaders, businesses, and residents to generate original story ideas and deepen community engagement.

Cover a broad range of local events, including government meetings, court proceedings, festivals, cultural performances, and recognition ceremonies.

Highlight economic and small‑business developments, emerging market trends, and community‑driven initiatives.

Collaboration & Innovation

Work closely across departments and with wider company partners to support regional digital initiatives and shared content opportunities.

Participate in brainstorming, planning, and cross‑newsroom collaboration to advance impactful journalism across the organization.

Use social media strategically to share reporting, elevate community conversation, and drive audience growth.

Where You’ll Report

City council, school board, and planning commission meetings that influence daily life in Suffolk.

Court hearings and trials that shape public understanding of crime, justice, and community safety.

Festivals, cultural celebrations, arts events, and performances showcasing the region’s creative and historical identity.

Business openings, award ceremonies, and economic events highlighting local achievements and challenges.

Who You’ll Work With

Local entrepreneurs, small businesses, politicians and emerging community leaders.

Industry professionals.

Chefs, restaurateurs, artists, and cultural contributors whose work defines Suffolk’s distinctive character.

Qualifications

Journalism, communications, or related degree preferred.

One to three years of reporting experience, or demonstrated journalistic skill through strong writing samples.

Excellent writing, interviewing, and research abilities.

Strong interpersonal skills, curiosity, creativity, and a commitment to community‑driven reporting.

Knowledge and practical use of FOIA processes and public‑records research.

Ability to work efficiently in a deadline‑driven, multitasking environment using a web‑based CMS.

Familiarity with AP Style and basic editing or proofreading skills preferred.

Experience with photo and video editing, social media management, and digital analytics is a plus.

Willingness to work occasional nights, weekends, and travel as required.

Valid driver’s license and the ability to pass an MVR check.