Senior Political Reporter: Statehouse, Campaigns & Analysis

Adams Communications Co; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Adams Communications Co. in Cedar Rapids, IA is seeking a political reporter to cover Iowa politics at state, regional and national levels.

You will deliver context-rich, enterprise reporting across print, broadcast, podcasts and newsletters, working with the bureau chief to plan coverage during the legislative session and beyond. The role emphasizes analysis of state government actions, collaboration with editors and the visual team, and ongoing interaction with sources and audiences.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in journalism, English or related field.
• Valid driver’s license and history of safe driving.
• Approximately 2–5 years of experience in a multimedia newsroom.
• Ability to present news with context across platforms.

Responsibilities

• Plans and staffs coverage with bureau chief and editors; coordinates with reporters and other partners.
• Regularly monitors government agendas and state legislature actions.
• Analyzes state government actions and political developments.
• Produces enterprise, investigative and breaking news reporting for multiple platforms.
• Hosts, panels or comments on political podcasts and statewide broadcasts as needed.
• Builds a roster of story ideas with emphasis on original enterprise in Iowa.
• Communicates with visuals teams; contributes photos/videos as required.
• Collects and edits basic audio/video and posts to websites.
• Uses open records and other tools to obtain source materials.
• Writes newsletters with updates and analysis on state government and officials.
• Learns new tools to gather, display and report content.
• Keeps informed on current events and trends; attends training to upgrade skills.
• Establishes a network of sources around state government and campaigns.

Skills

Editorial skills

Story development

Broadcast & podcast

Source building

Education

Undergraduate degree in journalism, English or related course of study

Job description

Adams Communications Co. in Cedar Rapids, IA is seeking a political reporter to cover Iowa politics at state, regional and national levels.

You will deliver context-rich, enterprise reporting across print, broadcast, podcasts and newsletters, working with the bureau chief to plan coverage during the legislative session and beyond. The role emphasizes analysis of state government actions, collaboration with editors and the visual team, and ongoing interaction with sources and audiences.