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Reporter Billings
Location: Billings, MT
Company: NonStop Local Billings
Position Title: Reporter
Position Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Position Pay: $16.00- $18.00 Per/ Hr. DOE
SUMMARY A Reporter for our family-owned company is expected to share in the same baseline job description. You will report to the News Director as well as other managers. Our operation is based on a story-centric workflow. That means we prioritize story treatment across a variety of platforms, from our linear broadcasts to our streaming services, as well as social media and our digital properties. Reporters must demonstrate a visually compelling shooting technique along with commensurate video-editing abilities. More importantly, a reporter is a critical thinker possessing intellectual curiosity and a healthy skepticism towards conventional wisdom. You not only gather the facts, but you crave asking hard questions.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Generate local story ideas daily; conduct compelling interviews; and creatively produce reports in a clear, imaginative manner.
Reporters are required to execute deadline-driven content on any existing or future media platform NonStop Local supports.
Travel to the scene of a news story to gather, compile, and present the information in the proper form regardless of platform.
Breaking news is our bread and butter. Anchor/Reporters are expected to guide and cover breaking news in a smooth, cohesive way as directed by the producer.
Maintain standards of accuracy and fairness in news coverage.
Complete assignments according to established deadlines.
Our Reporters have a competitive passion for winning and possess an openness to innovation.
Maintain extensive community contacts and awareness of local and national current events.
Work closely and respectfully with assigned photographers.
Communicate frequently throughout the day and work collaboratively with others in the newsroom.
Get along and communicate with a variety of people in often extreme circumstances.
This person must be social media savvy and utilize all platforms to gather information and generate audience attention.
Make promotional and community appearances as required.
Act in a professional manner when representing the station.
Maintain appropriate and strict standards regarding wardrobe, hair, cosmetics, and other areas of grooming.
Other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
A minimum of one year of on-air experience at a live commercial media outlet is preferred.
Degree in Journalism, Communications, Media or similar field preferred.
QUALIFICATIONS
Availability for big breaking news coverage on unassigned shift.
Smooth/pleasant delivery authentic to the viewers we serve.
Strong writing skills and news judgment.
Sharp video shooting and editing skills.
Exemplary communication skills.
Strong "in-the-field and live" skills.
Must be knowledgeable of issues, newsmakers, and current events.
Exceptional written communications skills using a conversational writing style.
Strong editorial judgment and a proven ethical foundation.
Ability to think quickly and respond to breaking news in high pressure situations and have strong organization and live reporting skills.
An above-average, demonstrable knowledge of television newscast production techniques and television news writing is extremely helpful.
Must possess a valid driver’s license and be insurable.
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Office Tools: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or equivalent tools (e.g., Google Workspace), including email and calendar management.
Content Management Systems (CMS): Experience with web publishing platforms to manage and upload digital content.
Video Editing: Knowledge of software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or similar tools.
Social Media Management: Proficiency in platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and tools such as Hootsuite or Buffer.
Broadcast-Specific Software: Knowledge of newsroom systems such as ENPS or iNews and teleprompter operations.
Research Tools: Ability to use online research tools, databases, and search engines effectively.
Live Streaming: Proficiency in live-streaming platforms and video conferencing tools like Zoom or Teams.
Data Analytics (Optional): Basic understanding of tools like Google Analytics to analyze audience trends.
KEY COMPETENCIES
Language Skills
Proficient in speaking, reading, and writing to communicate complex information clearly.
Ability to adjust tone and vocabulary for diverse audiences and platforms.
Strong ad-libbing skills with a clear, engaging speaking voice.
Customer Service Skills
Ability to engage authentically with viewers and build trust through effective communication.
Strong conflict resolution and adaptability to audience preferences.
Professionalism when representing the station at public events or online.
Reasoning Abilities
Strong critical thinking skills to evaluate sources, analyze data, and make editorial decisions.
Ability to synthesize information from multiple sources for clear, logical reporting.
Sound ethical reasoning to ensure fairness and adherence to journalistic standards.
Physical Demands
Frequent standing, walking, using your voice and sitting for extended periods of eight (8) to ten (10) hours per day.
Occasional lifting of equipment (e.g., cameras, tripods) up to 50 pounds.
Manual dexterity in operating equipment and computers.
Ability to work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Work Environment
Both indoors in a studio setting and outdoors reporting in various weather conditions.
Possible exposure to moderate or high noise levels both indoors and outdoors.
A fast-paced, deadline-driven newsroom environment.
What we offer:
We are a family-owned and operated multi-business organization with a heart for the community we serve and our employees. We set you up for success by providing the necessary tools and training needed to succeed in your position! We provide:
A friendly, supportive, and professional team atmosphere
Competitive wages and benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K matching, Employee Assistance Programs, and so much more!
We believe work/life balance is key to continued success, we offer Vacation Days, Sick Time, Paid Holidays, and Floating Holidays!
For detailed information regarding benefits, vacation, sick, and holiday time, please copy and paste the following link into your browser: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/NonStopLocalMT
What Next?
If you want to be part of our winning team, email your cover letter, resume, and link to your reel to: Stephanie Ashley, Director of Recruiting, at: Stephanie.ashley@NonStopLocal.com.
Don’t Forget: Create your candidate profile at https://careers.cowlesco.com - complete all required fields, and upload any supporting documents such as a resume, cover letter, references, and examples of work! At the end of your profile creation, simply pick the position(s) you would like to apply for and press "submit." It's that easy!
If you already have a company profile, log in and update your information where necessary, and apply to the open requisition. If you need assistance with creating or logging into your candidate profile, please email careers@cowlesco.com and an HR representative will respond as quickly as possible.
At NonStop Local/ Cowles Company we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where every individual is valued and respected. We believe that diversity enriches our organization, drives innovation, and fuels our success. We are dedicated to providing equal opportunities for employment and advancement to all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. We actively seek to recruit, develop, and retain a talented and diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity is unwavering, and we strive to create an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. Together, we can build a brighter future for our employees and our organization.
All candidates selected for hire will be required to submit to a background check.
Drug Testing, including THC, applies to safety-sensitive positions.
