General Assignment Reporter

Page News and Courier

General Assignment Reporter

Summary: The Page News and Courier is looking for a community-focused and passionate general assignment reporter to cover news for the town of Luray. The position will cover the crime beat, local education system and other municipalities in Page County, Virginia. This is a remote position with occasional required in-person meetings in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Reporters will be able to have active access and dialogue with the editor, who works in Harrisonburg. The general assignment reporter is responsible for getting to the heart of community issues. Constructing great ledes, building strong sources and having an eye for reader interest is essential for success in this role. While the reporter will be free to choose most of their own stories, the editor will assign specific stories when needed. The general assignment reporter is required to communicate story pitches, works in progress and submitted articles remotely.

Responsibilities - Pitch, research and write stories with relevant topics for the area, highlight the community and cover residents' concerns/questions - Pitch stories weekly through email - Cover county, municipal, crime and fire & EMS, education beats - Put out at least five stories a week - Input press releases when needed - Give midweek virtual check-ins ahead of deadline

Qualifications / Skills - Passion for telling the community’s stories and keeping people informed - Experience writing - Can follow Associated Press Stylebook - Experience using social media - Must possess a valid Virginia driver’s license - Must have the ability to walk long distances - Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Preferred Skills / Qualifications - Background and experience in journalism // reporting Salary and Benefits This is a full-time, 40 hours / week position. Wage based on qualifications. This is an hourly position with 401K and health insurance options. There will also be inclusion in Virginia Press Awards contest. This is a remote position with occasional in-person team meetings. The work environment is a small newsroom. The Page News and Courier can’t provide work sponsorship at this time. The reporter will be expected to work occasional evenings and weekends. This position will report to the News Editor, Vic Young.

Page News and Courier has functioned under its present name since 1911 but has roots in the county since 1867. The paper has loyal support from its surrounding community. It is located at 1113 East Main St, Luray, Va. Shari Keyes currently serves as publisher of the Page News and Courier.