Staff Writer

ILLINOIS PRESS ASSOCIATION; Springfield (IL); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in local journalism seeks a passionate staff writer who thrives on breaking news and in-depth reporting. This dynamic role involves crafting timely articles and building relationships with local sources, all while contributing to a company that values community engagement and diversity. With a strong commitment to anti-racism and inclusion, this organization encourages innovative ideas and quick decision-making, making it an exciting place for journalists eager to make a difference. If you are driven by a passion for local news and a desire to impact your community, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Strong writing skills for both breaking news and long-form pieces.
• Ability to research thoroughly and cultivate sources.

Responsibilities

• Produce timely breaking news articles and in-depth features.
• Engage with local sources and report on community issues.

Skills

Breaking News Writing

In-depth Research

Source Cultivation

Political Reporting

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Journalism

Relevant Experience

Job description

Job openings will appear here and on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. You must register/log-in to submit a job posting. All posts require approval before being published.

Are you someone who looks at the big picture but understands that details matter, too? Do you have the ability to crank out breaking news on deadline but also write in-depth long-form pieces that may require more than a week of research for a single article? Are you comfortable cultivating your own sources and asking the hard questions of local power brokers? Do you like the idea of working for a company where the decision-makers also live and work in the community? Illinois Times may be the right place for you.

Because we’re lean and strong, we’re not afraid to move quickly and try new things. There’s no large bureaucracy here, and no waiting weeks for decisions from corporate. We welcome your energy and ideas. We’re looking for a staff writer who is as passionate about local journalism as we are.

We have been publishing local independent journalism for 45 years. Over that time, we’ve gained the trust of our readers and made a name for ourselves in this advertising market. In a metro area of 200,000 people, we print 20,000 copies a week of our core publication (and never stopped printing, even during the pandemic), while we also grow our online presence with additional digital content.

As we publish in the state capital, experience in government and political reporting is a plus. But we will consider a recent graduate if you can demonstrate that you have what it takes.

We have begun on a path toward anti-racism in all aspects of our company. Inclusion and diversity are valued here. Our readers come from all walks of life and so does our staff. We hire people from a variety of backgrounds, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it makes our company stronger. If you share our values and our enthusiasm for strong journalism, please let Illinois Times hear from you.

Send a cover letter, resume, and 5-6 writing samples reflective of your work via email or snail mail to:

Fletcher Farrar, editor and CEO

1240 S. Sixth St.

Springfield, IL 62703