Campus Media Video Journalist

Reports to: Silhouette Section Editor

Hours: Approx 4 - 6 hours per week

The Silhouette is McMaster University’s student-run newspaper. The Sil has been in publication for over 80 years, first hitting the newsstands in the fall of 1930. The Sil employs an Editor-in-Chief and 18 undergraduate students part-time on its Editorial Board and welcomes the contributions of other students and community members throughout the year. 

This posting closes September 30 at 11:59pm, however, we will be reviewing candidates starting immediately.

The Video Journalist is responsible for producing one short-form video package bi-weekly in support of The Silhouette and 93.3 CFMU’s multimedia operations. Assigned to a specific section (News, Opinion, Arts & Culture, Sports, and CFMU), the Video Journalist will pitch story ideas to their Editor and develop field-based, storytelling-driven video content for publication across social media. The role blends reporting, on-camera presence, and content creation. The Video Journalist will conduct interviews, capture footage, and produce a rough edit of their video. Final review, refinement, and publishing will be completed in collaboration with the Digital Media Specialist and Video Production Coordinator.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Research & Assignment Function

• Pitch at least one video story idea bi-week to their assigned Editor 

• Develop video concepts aligned with section priorities and newsroom standards 

• Ensure reporting is accurate, balanced, and consistent with The Silhouette and CFMU’s mandates 

Production Function

• Film interviews, b-roll, and on-location footage 

• Appear on camera when appropriate to support storytelling 

• Complete a rough edit of each video for review 

Editing & Publication Function

• Submit rough cuts to the Digital Media Specialist for refinement and distribution 

• Work with the Video Production Coordinator on technical production support as needed 

• Adapt content to platform specifications (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, website embeds) 

• Meet bi-weekly production deadlines 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 

• Ability to develop compelling video stories in accordance with The Silhouette’s editorial standards 

• Strong verbal communication skills for on-camera reporting and interviewing 

• Ability to research, pitch, and structure visual narratives 

• Personal skills to work collaboratively with SIL/CFMU team 

• Basic proficiency in video editing software (basic understanding of Adobe Premiere Pro is an asset) 

• Understanding of short-form digital storytelling for Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and web platforms 

• Knowledge of basic videography techniques including framing, lighting, and audio capture 

• Time management and organizational skills to meet bi-weekly production deadlines 

• Knowledge of media law and ethical reporting standards 

Effort & Responsibility 

• Attention to detail to ensure accuracy, balance, and technical quality in video content 

• Persistence in obtaining accurate information and securing interviews 

• Responsibility to represent The Silhouette and CFMU professionally in public settings 

• Responsible adherence to CFMU Radio Inc. Operating Policy – The Silhouette 

• Effort required to coordinate filming, editing, and revisions within a bi-weekly production cycle 

• Responsibility for handling and returning SIL/CFMU equipment properly 

• Use SIL/CFMU equipment responsibly and in accordance with internal procedures 

Working Conditions

• Field-based reporting across campus and within the Hamilton community (busing or alternate transportation may be required) 

• Silhouette shared office space around a lounges 

• Exposure to weather conditions 

• CFMU office (lounge space) 

• Filming may occur outdoors and in varying environmental conditions 

• Time demands may occasionally exceed stated hours of work during peak coverage periods 

Training and Experience 

• Journalism experience (previous experience with the Silhouette or CFMU is an asset) 

• Basic video editing experience required; advanced technical training will be supported internally 

• Familiarity with social media platforms and digital publishing environments 

Equipment

• Must have laptop for video editing (software provided) 

• SIL/CFMU video and audio recording equipment available for use 

For a full list of duties and responsibilities, please download the full job descrip