Multimedia Journalist

Are you a passionate storyteller ready to capture the heartbeat of south-central Iowa? The Ottumwa Courier and Oskaloosa Herald are seeking a dynamic, dedicated Multimedia Journalist to join our collaborative news team. This is a perfect opportunity for recent journalism graduates or early-career journalists eager to make a significant impact in community journalism.

Key Responsibilities:

• Produce compelling written journalism, including local community features and government reporting.
• Create supplemental photos and videos for your stories and assist colleagues in the newsroom.
• Regularly file Freedom of Information Act and public records requests.
• Work a Tuesday-Saturday schedule, with flexibility for some holidays and Sundays.
• Adhere to journalism ethics, conduct independent reporting, and conduct interviews.
• Manage multiple assignments simultaneously as a self-starter.

What We’re Looking For:

• A journalism degree and/or experience in the field, suitable for entry-level or early-career journalists.
• Strong writing skills, evidenced by 3-4 writing samples.
• Visual journalism skills, with a portfolio showcasing your capabilities.
• Ability to travel within an eight-county region (mileage and expenses reimbursed).

Our Culture: At the Ottumwa Courier and Oskaloosa Herald, we thrive on collaboration and creativity. Our journalists experience a diverse range of reporting assignments, fostering skill development and career growth. We are committed to rigorous local government reporting and uplifting community stories. Our work is more than just journalism; it's a vital service to our community.

Benefits:

• Paid vacation, personal, and sick time.
• Health, vision, and dental insurance, as well as health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts.
• 401(k) with employer match of 25% on the first 5% of deferred earnings.
• Employer-paid life insurance, with ability to purchase additional life insurance.
• Monthly cell phone reimbursement.
• Access to short-term and long-term disability coverage, an employee assistance program, Aflac coverage, and identity theft protection.

How to Apply: Please send an updated resume, a cover letter explaining your abilities as they relate to our newspapers, 3-4 writing samples, and a visual portfolio of photos and/or video to General Manager & Editor Kyle Ocker at kocker@ottumwacourier.com. We are accepting applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

Embark on your journalism career with us and be a voice for our community. Apply today!