General news reporter

Media24; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 240 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A national news publication in South Africa is seeking an experienced journalist to produce relevant and factually correct articles. The successful candidate will report on breaking news, write quality news pieces, and adhere to strict deadlines. Ideal candidates should possess at least 5 years of journalism experience and a relevant tertiary qualification. The position is based in the Western Cape.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years’ journalism experience.
• Strong knowledge of topical issues and current affairs.
• Demonstrable network of contacts.
• Valid driver’s licence.

Responsibilities

• Produce original articles on municipal, court, health, education, and other relevant news developments.
• Report on breaking news stories within the province.
• Write quality news and feature articles.
• Adhere to the quality, style, and content standards.
• Live reporting into News24 live blogs.
• Secure newsmakers for in-depth interviews.

Skills

Strong command of English

Established network of contacts

Ability to work under pressure

Good time management

Sound news judgement

Knowledge of digital publishing tools

Detail orientation

Good people skills

Quality orientation

Understanding of SA Press Code

Education

Relevant tertiary qualification

Job description

Main purpose:

To produce relevant, exclusive and factually correct articles and analysis for News24 and its national audience on news developments in the Western Cape.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Produce original articles on municipal, court, health, education and other relevant news developments for news, feature and analysis stories;
• Report on breaking news stories within the province;
• Write quality news and feature articles, adhering to strict deadlines and News24’s style;
• Adhere to the quality, style and content standards as laid out and required by the particular publication
• Live reporting into News24 live blogs on developing stories;
• Secure newsmakers for in-depth interviews on topical issues.

Skills & Competencies:

• Established network of contacts;
• Strong command of English;
• Able to work under pressure and to strict deadlines;
• Good time management, the ability to multitask effectively and complete tasks timeously;
• Sound news judgement;
• Knowledge of the online news environment and digital publishing tools, including mobile video and photos;
• Detail orientation;
• Good people skills;
• Quality orientation and the ability to deliver clean copy, and
• Understanding of the SA Press Code and adherence to our code of ethics.

Minimum Requirements:

• Relevant tertiary qualification;
• At least 5 years’ journalism experience;
• Excellent general knowledge;
• Strong knowledge of topical issues and current affairs;
• Demonstrable network of contacts;
• Valid driver’s licence.

Given the employment equity policy of Media24, preference will be given to suitable candidates from the designated groups.