FLORIDA TODAY, part of the USA Today Network, is looking for a reporter with empathetic reporting skills and exemplary writing to cover mental health issues in Brevard County. When residents are asked what are the top concerns facing this Central Florida county, mental health rises to the forefront, often second to only affordable housing.
Stories may touch on topics such as teen/adult death by suicide, veteran-related mental health concerns, senior isolation, addiction, availability of support and medical help for those with mental health issues, private and public programs to aid those with mental illness, funding/training issues around mental health, stigma, etc.
The successful candidate should be comfortable reporting and writing about challenging topics, boast the writing skills to draw in readers and the reporting ability to question assumptions. We're looking for someone who can balance exclusive digital reporting that's relevant and compelling to local residents with high-level journalism that delivers rich insights.
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We want someone passionate about this topic who can quickly become a beat expert. We welcome ideas on alternative ways to present information from moderating forums to social media and podcasting.
This reporter will be expected to build relationships with members of diverse communities. You'll also be asked to coordinate with our visuals team but should have basic photo and video skills and must be comfortable appearing on video.
This full-time position is grant-funded for one year. This role requires a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS:
- Strong writing skills and a command of grammar and style.
- Empathy in reporting around difficult issues
- Experience with social media as a tool to build audience and as a source for beat development.
- Experience with and interest in multimedia, including video.
- A self-starter who owns the beat yet works collaboratively with others to meet goals
- A journalist committed to values of fairness, diversity, inclusion and professionalism.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience.
- Three to five years of experience as a reporter/writer.
- Proven experience generating story ideas around a specific beat.
- Good time management and organizational skills.
- Driver's license and a car.
We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don't limit your upload to a resume; show us what you've done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order:
1. Your resume - one to two pages.
2. A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
3. Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what you've produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role.
It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.
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