Politics Reporter

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; North Carolina; On-site; USD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is seeking a Politics Reporter to cover state and local political developments from the Raleigh area. Reporting to WUNC’s Supervising Editor, you will deliver quick spots, interviews and well-researched features for multiple platforms.

The role requires strong writing and communication skills, flexibility for after-hours work, and a solid understanding of North Carolina politics within a public radio context.

Qualifications

• Minimum education: post-Baccalaureate degree or equivalent.
• 3+ years of relevant journalism or reporting experience.
• Experience with public radio is preferred.
• Familiarity with North Carolina politics.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends.

Responsibilities

• Report on state and local politics for WUNC.
• Produce quick-turnaround spot news and interviews.
• Create online reports and in-depth feature pieces.
• Coordinate with Supervising Editor and anchors.
• Work in Raleigh, NC with occasional after-hours work.

Skills

Journalist experience

Radio producer experience

Written communication

Oral communication

Deadline management

Collaboration skills

NC politics familiarity

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher

Job description

Posting Information

Department WUNC-FM-259000

Career Area Public Relations/Communications/Marketing

Posting Open Date 09/30/2026

Application Deadline 10/21/2026

Open Until Filled No

Position Type Permanent Staff (EHRA NF)

Working Title Politics Reporter

Appointment Type EHRA Non-Faculty

Position Number 01000562

Vacancy ID NF0010088

Full Time/Part Time Full-Time Permanent

FTE 1

Hours per week 40

Position Location North Carolina, US

Hiring Range $70,000 - $85,000

Proposed Start Date 11/02/2026

Position Information

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities . Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC -Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package , paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose Of Organizational Unit

WUNC Radio provides quality news, information and entertainment programming to a broad listening audience that includes North Carolina, the United States and the world. WUNC serves North Carolinians from Greensboro to the Outer Banks through a network of ten stations.

Position Summary

The Politics Reporter reports to WUNC’s Supervising Editor.

This position is responsible for reporting on State and local politics. The reporting includes quick turnaround spot news, interviews, reporter debriefings, anchor wraps, online reports and well-researched feature reports. It is based in the Legislative Building in Raleigh, NC.

As news events do not conform to a regular 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. schedule, there are times when the Politics Reporter is called on for work during weekends and after hours.

Minimum Education And Experience Requirements

Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent research productivity or comparable background in independent academic or instructional activities, will accept a relevant Bachelor’s degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution. This experience may be related to the direction/oversight of programs that focus the academic and research resources of a higher education institution towards community or regional issues.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, And Experience

The Politics Reporter will be an experienced journalist with strong communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, And Experience

• At least three years of experience as a journalist and/or radio producer, preferably in a public radio newsroom.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Creativity and initiative.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and meet deadlines, working with materials from a variety of sources and collaborators.
• Demonstrated ability to work with colleagues effectively and collaboratively.
• A familiarity with politics and North Carolina.
• Experience with public radio or related not-for-profit fundraising.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Quick Link

https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/326185

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.