Local Government Reporter

As a reporter for the Post and Courier Myrtle Beach, the emphasis for this role will be on growing our audience reach through in-depth coverage of a wide range of topics, with specific focus on local government.

This reporter will work closely with an experienced team of journalists to cover the Grand Strand's coastal communities. This includes quality of life issues important to residents, how local government policies affect people's daily lives, and the impact of development throughout a rapidly growing region. There is also a significant opportunity for coverage of the tourism industry, which is the largest economic driver in the area.

Along with reporting breaking news and enterprise pieces, the reporter will also seek to tell stories in other ways, including short-form, vertical video. As readers increasingly consume video for news and information, our reporters aim to expand our digital presence with mobile-first storytelling.

This position reports to the Myrtle Beach local editor.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Produce story ideas from the assigned beat or from conversations with sources and other members of the community.

• Write three or more solidly researched stories each week, including enterprise, that are clear and concise, using words, sentence construction and organizational format that aid clarity. Complement stories with supporting documents.

• Develop and maintain photo, video and digital skills.

• Produce work that is accurate in fact, tone and implication. Understands libel law and the rules governing plagiarism.

• Effectively learn and use all job technology and systems.

• Learn and follow all department and company policies and procedures.

• Meet all assigned deadlines.

• Develop a list of knowledgeable, diverse sources.

• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements, minimum education level, and experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications or English preferred

• Experience in AP style writing

• Flexibility to occasionally adjust hours to cover breaking news or weekend and evening events

• Valid driver's license, good driving record, reliable and insured vehicle

• Reliable access to internet service

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Strong writing and editing in AP style skills

• Strong written and oral communication and interpersonal skills

• Good customer relation skills with the ability to easily and professionally speak and work with readers and the public daily

• Ability to react quickly to breaking news

• Ability to prioritize workload and self-manage projects, handle multiple tasks and meet strict deadlines

• Knowledge of the community and surrounding cities a plus

• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry and workplace

• Strong, professional work ethic

• Ability to work independently remotely, if necessary, in a suitable workspace that meets safety guidelines

Physical Requirements, Work Environment and Travel:

Regularly required to sit for long periods of time; close eye work on computer screen; required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, bend and stoop; light to moderate lifting 15-30 pounds.

The worker is frequently subject to inside environmental conditions, which provide protection from weather conditions but not necessarily from temperature changes, and is sometimes subject to adverse outside environmental conditions.

Local travel is required. The Post and Courier is an equal opportunity employer.