Local Government Reporter
Reports To: VP, News
Position Type: Full Time, Exempt
Salary Range: $59,000 - $63,000 Annually
About Your Role
This is a rare opportunity to apply for one of the premiere reporting positions in Cincinnati.
Cincinnati Public Radio is seeking a Local Government Reporter in the news department. The reporter will primarily cover the city of Cincinnati, including City Council, the mayor’s office, city manager’s office, Planning Commission, etc. and may also report on local government issues in Hamilton County.
As the Local Government Reporter, you will report on policy and legislative updates as they occur, as well as identify trends and topics for more in-depth coverage. You will break down complicated topics into “plain English” that average Cincinnatians can understand.
What You'll Do
- Gather news for radio broadcast, web, and social media, including short daily spots and occasional news features
- Regularly attend City Council and committee meetings, other public meetings, and press conferences
- News reporting on other topics as needed
- Develop and maintain relationships with sources
- Actively participate in daily news meetings
- Active on social media as necessary to represent WVXU
- Guest on Cincinnati Edition as news warrants
- May collaborate on special projects such as podcasts or newsletters
- Participate in the submission of reporting for awards
- Fill-in anchoring for various WVXU shifts (Morning Edition, midday, All Things Considered) as needed
- Play an active role with on-air fundraising as needed
- Participate in station outreach and public appearances
- On call during breaking news events
- Edit other news reporters’ work both for broadcast and digital
- Occasionally share news stories with partners including The Ohio Newsroom, Kentucky Public Radio, Indiana Public Broadcasting and NPR
- Stay current on emerging technologies as they relate to journalism
- Take on other projects and duties as assigned
What You'll Need to Get the Job Done
Desired Skills and Qualifications
- At least 3 years reporting experience
- Strong organizational skills and ability to juggle multiple tasks and priorities
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail
- Effective communication skills and an interest in working collaboratively to support staff and other departments through the organization
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a diverse and creative team
- Understanding of Cincinnati Public Radio’s programming and belief in Cincinnati Public Radio’s mission and vision
- Basic understanding of local government and how it works, or a strong willingness to learn quickly
Work Environment
- This job requires frequent in-town travel to City Hall and other locations
- Duties require frequent use of a computer and other office equipment
- A reliable vehicle and valid driver’s license are required
- Occasional work on nights and weekends
What Will Make Us Really Love You
- Experience in politics or government reporting
- Experience in broadcast media
- Experience in public media
- Experience in adapting reporting to social media platforms
Why Join Cincinnati Public Radio?
Cincinnati Public Radio has been a trusted member of the Greater Cincinnati community for more than 60 years. Join an award-winning team that works to build trust and make a difference in the lives of listeners and non-listeners alike, creating a community that is informed, involved, and inspired.
Benefits
- Retirement: 403(b) plan with employer matching after one year of employment
- Healthcare: Medical, dental, and vision coverage with approximately 75% of the premiums paid by us
- Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance: Group policies 100% paid by us
- Paid Time Off: 15 days per year, plus 8 sick days and 11 paid holidays
- Parental Leave: Paid leave for all new parents
- Work Environment: Work in our newly constructed headquarters with a hybrid option (up to two remote days per week)
Cincinnati Public Radio is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. Minority/female/disability PWDNET/veteran are encouraged to apply.
Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a pre-employment background screening and reference check.
Submit resume, cover letter, and work samples at https://www.cinradio.org/jobs/. Applications are accepted until the position is filled, but for best consideration apply by November 16th, 2026.
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