State Capital Reporters, Sacramento
The Los Angeles Times has openings for two state government and politics reporters in the Sacramento bureau.
We are looking for versatile, experienced journalists to cover the California Legislature, state agencies and policy. The successful candidates should be skilled at cultivating sources, mastering a complex beat and producing stories that vary from breaking news, features and enterprise.
California remains a dominant force in shaping national politics and policy, so the job requires sharp news instincts and the nimbleness to identify and pounce on major stories missed by others. Watchdog and explanatory reporting are top priorities for the Sacramento bureau. The ability to work in a team atmosphere also is essential.
Responsibilities:
- Report and write stories across a variety of subject areas, with an ability to turn around breaking news, step-backs, explainers, news features, analysis and, when appropriate, investigations
- Identify unique angles that will advance a news story beyond what other outlets have already reported
- Cultivate sources and contacts to aid in the execution of a range of stories
- Work collaboratively across departments to plan digital publication strategies
- Write engaging headlines and SEO components with a digital, diverse audience in mind
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Requirements:
- A minimum of five years of journalism experience
- Ability to tackle a mix of enterprise and longer-term stories, along with breaking and daily news
- Excellent communication with peers, supervisors and the newsroom
- Proven ability to juggle multiple tasks in a deadline-driven environment
- Excellent skills in news writing and reporting, combining strong news judgment, fluency in style and deep knowledge of taste and legal considerations
- Understanding of the importance of accuracy and precision
- An ethical and inclusive approach in the workplace that promotes collaboration
- Comfortable appearing on TV, radio and podcasts on behalf of the L.A. Times
Government reporting experience, either full time or as part of other beats, is strongly preferred but not required. Bilingual or multilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
The positions will be based in Sacramento and occasional field reporting in other parts of California is expected, as is night and weekend work. The Times' state government team also assists with coverage of breaking stories across Northern California. The roles are listed as Reporter in the Los Angeles Times Guild. Reporters must have a valid driver's license and access to a vehicle in good working condition, with suitable auto insurance coverage.
Qualified candidates should submit a resume, cover letter and applicable clips to California Politics Editor Phil Willon.
Perks and Benefits
Health and Wellness
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- FSA
- HSA
- Life Insurance
- Short-Term Disability
- Long-Term Disability
- Mental Health Benefits
- Pet Insurance
Parental Benefits
- Non-Birth Parent or Paternity Leave
- Birth Parent or Maternity Leave
Work Flexibility
- Flexible Work Hours
- Remote Work Opportunities
Office Life and Perks
- Commuter Benefits Program
- Casual Dress
- Holiday Events
Vacation and Time Off
- Unlimited Paid Time Off
- Paid Holidays
- Leave of Absence
Financial and Retirement
- 401(K)
- 401(K) With Company Matching
- Relocation Assistance
- Financial Counseling
Professional Development
- Promote From Within
- Access to Online Courses
- Internship Program
- Leadership Training Program
- Lunch and Learns
Diversity and Inclusion
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program
- Asian founded/led
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