Hiring Department Reynolds Journalism Institute Job Description News Media Help Desk, which is based at the Reynolds Journalism Institute in Columbia, Missouri, is seeking an expert writer for a full-time reporting position that will cover the constantly evolving landscape where journalism and technology meet. The ideal candidate must have a deep understanding of the local news industry — including ethics, standards and business operations — as well as an understanding of technology and its
effect on how audiences find and consume news online. This grant-funded position will report and write weekly coverage for an audience of journalism professionals. They will also launch a weekly newsletter and help plan and manage the Help Desk’s existing monthly newsletter. The goal of their coverage and these two newsletter products is to help news publishers navigate changes in technology that affect the sustainability of local news. The person hired for this role must be able to distill complex technical information into an easy-to-understand format, while prioritizing actionable insights that support local news operations. They must also: • be able to spot emerging technology or tech platform changes that journalists and publishers need to be aware of, • regularly pitch, report and write on deadline, • be comfortable being an expert voice within the journalism industry • and be knowledgeable about digital issues local newsrooms are navigating. This position is fully remote but must be able to be accessible online from roughly 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Central) to collaborate with other Help Desk staff. The role may also include some paid travel to industry conferences, other events and the University of Missouri campus in Columbia. Networking with journalists, editors, producers, news executives and technologists will be a key to success in reporting this beat. Also, this person should be comfortable experimenting with emerging technology, like AI, to learn about it and report on takeaways from using it. That said, all writing published in the Help Desk should originate from the reporter, not generative AI writing tools. Responsibilities include: • Reporting and writing at least one article a week on the journalism and technology beat. • Planning and writing email newsletters for the Help Desk’s audience. • Using Google documents and WordPress to work with editors. • Using communication and productivity tools to message and collaborate with editors and other staff. • Interacting with Help Desk staff, journalists and news leaders to stay updated on emerging trends in journalism. Shift Monday through Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm Location: Must be located in the U.S. This position is fully remote but must be able to be accessible online from roughly 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Central time) The role may also include some travel to industry conferences, other events and the University of Missouri campus in Columbia, Missouri. Minimum Qualifications A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 3 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary. Preferred Qualifications At least five years of professional writing experience, preferably in a newsroom setting or as part of a team that regularly covers the journalism industry. Knowledge of using AP style and brand-specific style guidelines. A deep understanding of digital news publishing workflows and technology as it relates to the production and sharing of news. An understanding of technology and tech platforms (made by companies like Google, Meta, Anthropic and others) and how they affect news consumption habits. Some experience writing technical topics preferred. Experience writing for newsletter products. Anticipated Hiring Range Salary Range: $53,976 - $75,000 per year. This a grant-funded position. Grade: GGS 010 University Title: Senior Strategic Communications Associate Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR. Application Materials Apply online by uploading a resume, cover letter and three writing clips. In the cover letter, explain (1) why you are interested in reporting on journalism and technology, (2) what your personal relationship with technology is like, and (3) why your journalism experience makes you a good fit for this role. At least one of your three clips should show how you explained a complex topic in an approachable way. Sponsorship Information Employment visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Other Information News Media Help Desk is a help desk for the journalism industry. This website is a free, centralized hub designed to provide local news organizations with access to essential resources, expert assistance and affordable hands-on help through Digital On-Demand Services fractional support. With these resources, the Help Desk aims to guide local news publishers through digital challenges that affect the sustainability of news operations. The Help Desk is made possible by collaboration between the Reynolds Journalism Institute and the Local Media Consortium. The initiative is also supported by a grant from The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. Visit the Help Desk: https://www.newsmediahelpdesk.org/ Benefit Eligibility This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/departments-staff/human-resources/benefits-retirement Equal Employment Opportunity The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278. 61359
