Reporter

Benton Area Chamber Commerce; Benton (AR); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Benton Area Chamber Commerce is seeking a dedicated Reporter for The Saline Courier in Benton, Arkansas. The role involves covering general news, enterprise, and investigative stories with a focus on community journalism, requiring strong photography and videography skills.

The ideal candidate should possess a Bachelor's degree in journalism or equivalent experience, along with a commitment to ethical reporting. This position requires an ability to work under deadlines and effectively build relationships within the community.

Interested candidates should email their resume, writing samples, and cover letter to [e-mail].

Qualifications

• Experience as a reporter or background in humanities-related education.
• Ability to meet deadlines and conduct interviews, investigations, and research.
• Commitment to ethical, honest, and objective reporting.

Responsibilities

• Receive assignments from editors.
• Evaluate leads and pitch compelling story ideas.
• Conduct interviews and research for stories.
• Cover breaking news on location.

Skills

Photography and videography skills

Proficiency in digital and social media

Strong news judgment

Strong time management skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in journalism or related field

Job description

Overview

REPORTER. The Saline Courier, formerly the Benton Courier, is an award winning news organization serving Benton, AR, since 1876. It publishes news online daily and in print from Tuesday through Saturday, maintaining a strong focus on community journalism.

Position Description: The reporter will cover general news, enterprise, and investigative stories for The Saline Courier. Stories should be primarily self-generated and reflect a deep understanding of the community. The reporter should actively engage in local events and be a recognizable presence in Saline County, both in person and on social media.

This role requires producing hard news and feature stories for both digital and print platforms. The ideal candidate should have photography and videography skills, be able to pivot quickly between topics, and deliver accurate, in-depth reporting on tight deadlines.

Candidates should have experience as a reporter or a background in humanities-related education. Proficiency in digital and social media for tracking news is essential. Strong news judgment, an understanding of digital and print news cycles, and a passion for local journalism are required. The ability to meet deadlines and a degree in journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience are necessary.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Receive assignments from editors.
• Evaluate leads and pitch compelling story ideas.
• Report for digital and print platforms.
• Meet deadlines.
• Conduct interviews, investigations, and research.
• Capture photos, videos, and audio to support stories.
• Cover breaking news on location.
• Communicate effectively with newsroom staff.
• Collaborate with colleagues to enhance coverage.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Commitment to ethical, honest, and objective reporting.
• Ability to build relationships with diverse sources.
• Strong time management skills and ability to work under deadlines.
• Creative approach to storytelling.
• Quick and accurate research skills.
• Strong news judgment.
• Physical Requirements: Close eye work, continuous sitting, frequent walking and standing. Light to moderate lifting (15-30 pounds) per safety policy.

To apply, please email a resume, writing samples, and cover letter to [e-mail]. Destin L. Davis

Contact

607 North Market Street
Benton, Arkansas 72015
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]