Climate Reporter

Gannett is hiring a climate reporter for the Austin American-Statesman to cover climate change and weather in Austin and Central Texas. Responsibilities include urgent reporting on severe weather, analyzing climate data, and engaging with the community through various media. Candidates should have a degree in journalism or communications, two years of reporting experience, and strong communication skills. The position requires a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
About the position

The Austin American-Statesman is seeking a climate reporter to join a new team focused on covering extreme climate change and weather patterns in Austin and Central Texas. This role involves urgent reporting on severe weather events, explaining complex climate-related topics, and engaging with the audience through various media platforms. The reporter will become a local expert on weather, providing timely updates and insights to the community.

Responsibilities
• Write daily dispatches for the morning report and throughout the day if needed.
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• Analyze temperature trends, rainfall amounts, and forecasts to inform readers.
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• Cover breaking weather events across the metro region and beyond.
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• Deliver information on social media in both written and video formats.
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• Compile maps, charts, and graphics to assist readers in planning their activities.
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• Develop engaging enterprise stories that explore weather trends and records.
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• Collaborate with newsroom reporters and photographers to create compelling content.
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• Connect with the community through storytelling and social media interactions.
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• Be available to cover breaking news, including occasional weekend and holiday work.

Requirements
• Bachelor's or master's in communications, journalism, or equivalent experience.
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• At least two years of reporting experience in a daily newsroom; previous weather reporting experience is a plus.
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• Energetic self-starter with the ability to spot important stories.
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• Ability to multitask and work under intense deadline pressure.
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• Strong collaboration skills with a team of journalists.
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• Excellent communication skills, news judgment, and headline-writing ability.
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• Strong interpersonal skills, including empathy and compassion.
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• Proficiency in social media platforms and engaging with readers.
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• Experience in shooting and editing photos and videos on an iPhone.
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• Strong writing, spelling, and grammar skills with knowledge of AP style.
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• Understanding of media law and ethical conduct principles.
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• Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and minimum liability insurance required.

Nice-to-haves

Benefits