Reporter

Western News; Cottonwood (AZ); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k)

Paid Time Off

Growth Opportunities

Job summary

Western News in Cottonwood, AZ is seeking a reporter to cover local beats, take photographs and video, and produce accurate stories for print and digital audiences.

You’ll research, report and write news and enterprise stories under deadline, edit submissions, and help with website content, layout, and engaging multimedia. The ideal candidate is curious, community-minded, and comfortable building relationships with sources.

Qualifications

• Strong writing, editing and meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced newsroom.
• High school diploma or equivalent and valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Take news and feature photographs and video to support print and digital coverage.
• Research, report and write accurate news, feature, enterprise, beat and special assignment stories.
• Produce and upload content for the publication’s websites while developing ideas to strengthen digital coverage and engagement.
• Edit and rewrite local news, submitted copy and freelance content for accuracy, clarity, grammar, style and readability.
• Assist with newspaper and special publication production, including page layout, pagination, photo selection and cropping, headlines, captions, graphics and final proofing.
• Maintain assigned productivity and story requirements, participate in editorial meetings, and represent the organization professionally when interacting with community members.

Skills

Strong writing

Editing

Deadlines

Communication skills

Driver's license

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Digital publishing tools

Job description

The Reporter gathers news, develops story ideas, takes photographs and video, and produces accurate, engaging content for print and digital audiences. This role covers assigned beats, builds relationships throughout the community, and stays informed on issues affecting local readers. The ideal candidate is curious, deadline-driven, comfortable working with people, and passionate about telling stories that matter to the community.

• Competitive benefits package
• Medical, dental and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Opportunities for growth and professional development

Responsibilities:

• Take news and feature photographs and video to support print and digital coverage.
• Research, report and write accurate news, feature, enterprise, beat and special assignment stories as directed by the City Editor.
• Produce and upload content for the publication’s websites while developing ideas to strengthen digital coverage and engagement.
• Edit and rewrite local news, submitted copy and freelance content for accuracy, clarity, grammar, style and readability.
• Assist with newspaper and special publication production, including page layout, pagination, photo selection and cropping, headlines, captions, graphics and final proofing.
• Maintain assigned productivity and story requirements, participate in editorial meetings, and represent the organization professionally when interacting with community members.

Qualifications:

• Strong writing, editing and communication skills with excellent attention to accuracy and detail.
• Ability to develop story ideas, meet deadlines and manage multiple assignments in a fast-paced newsroom environment.
• Basic computer skills and familiarity with email, office equipment and digital publishing tools; accurate typing skills are required.
• Ability to communicate professionally and courteously with community members, sources, customers and coworkers.
• High school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver’s license, with the ability to drive when required for assignments.

Compensation and Benefits:

Competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401(k), and PTO.

About Us:

We are a growing, family-owned group of community news properties with roots stretching back over 140+ years. We believe local journalism matters — and we're investing in it. We are growing, stable, and mission-driven. Our properties serve loyal, engaged communities across the Southwest, and we're looking for a leader to grow our audiences across every channel.