Real-Time Newsroom Coordinator

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Montclair (NJ); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Montclair State University is seeking an Assignment Coordinator to serve as the real-time nerve center of the NJ PBS newsroom. You will coordinate crew and equipment, monitor breaking news, schedule journalists, and maintain source networks across platforms.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree with at least three years on an assignment desk, strong news judgment, and the ability to manage multiple live stories. A valid driver’s license is required.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in a related field.
• At least three years of demonstrated assignment desk experience in broadcast or digital daily newsroom operations, including managing breaking news, crew scheduling, and assignment coordination.
• Strong news judgment.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent field assignments in a live news environment.
• Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Monitor social media and wire services for breaking news and developing stories.
• Assign reporters and photojournalists to stories based on availability, location, and editorial priorities.
• Manage crew scheduling and equipment deployment, ensuring adequate coverage for all assigned stories.
• Maintain the assignment log and daily story list, updating it throughout the day as stories develop.
• Coordinate live shot logistics, including satellite truck positioning, microwave paths, and IP‑based live connections.
• Assist producers with rundown planning by providing real-time updates on story status and crew availability.
• Develop and maintain news contacts and sources.
• Adhere to NJ PBS editorial standards and public media ethics guidelines.

Skills

News judgment

Live newsroom coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Job description

Montclair State University is seeking an Assignment Coordinator to serve as the real-time nerve center of the NJ PBS newsroom. You will coordinate crew and equipment, monitor breaking news, schedule journalists, and maintain source networks across platforms.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree with at least three years on an assignment desk, strong news judgment, and the ability to manage multiple live stories. A valid driver’s license is required.