GENERAL ASSIGNMENT REPORTER Suffolk News-Herald | Suffolk, Virginia
The Suffolk News-Herald is seeking a versatile, community-minded general assignment reporter to join our newsroom. This role is ideal for a journalist who thrives in a fast-paced environment, values public-service reporting, and excels at producing engaging content across multiple platforms. The successful candidate will contribute daily coverage that informs, connects, and reflects the people of Suffolk.
Key ResponsibilitiesNews Coverage & Reporting
- Produce accurate, timely, and compelling stories on a wide range of topics, from public safety and courts to business, culture, and community issues.
- Respond quickly to breaking news, publishing updates and visuals with a strong digital focus and meeting tight deadlines.
- Research historical cases, true-crime topics, and unresolved investigations, maintaining a pipeline of enterprise story ideas and contributing to ongoing specialty projects.
Digital & Multimedia Engagement
- Work closely with digital and audience teams to apply analytics, evaluate story performance, and develop innovative ways to deliver content online.
- Create and package multimedia storytelling—including photos, short videos, and social content—optimized for digital audiences.
- Contribute unique features and multi-platform presentations for special projects
Community Connection
- Build and nurture relationships with local sources, civic leaders, businesses, and residents to generate original story ideas and deepen community engagement.
- Cover a broad range of local events, including government meetings, court proceedings, festivals, cultural performances, and recognition ceremonies.
- Highlight economic and small-business developments, emerging market trends, and community-driven initiatives.
Collaboration & Innovation
- Work closely across departments and with wider company partners to support regional digital initiatives and shared content opportunities.
- Participate in brainstorming, planning, and cross-newsroom collaboration to advance impactful journalism across the organization.
- Use social media strategically to share reporting, elevate community conversation, and drive audience growth.
Where You’ll Report
- City council, school board, and planning commission meetings that influence daily life in Suffolk.
- Court hearings and trials that shape public understanding of crime, justice, and community safety.
- Festivals, cultural celebrations, arts events, and performances showcasing the region’s creative and historical identity.
- Business openings, award ceremonies, and economic events highlighting local achievements and challenges.
Who You’ll Work With
- Local entrepreneurs, small businesses, politicians and emerging community leaders.
- Chefs, restaurateurs, artists, and cultural contributors whose work defines Suffolk’s distinctive character.
Qualifications
- Journalism, communications, or related degree preferred.
- One to three years of reporting experience, or demonstrated journalistic skill through strong writing samples.
- Excellent writing, interviewing, and research abilities.
- Strong interpersonal skills, curiosity, creativity, and a commitment to community-driven reporting.
- Knowledge and practical use of FOIA processes and public-records research.
- Ability to work efficiently in a deadline-driven, multitasking environment using a web-based CMS.
- Familiarity with AP Style and basic editing or proofreading skills preferred.
- Experience with photo and video editing, social media management, and digital analytics is a plus.
- Willingness to work occasional nights, weekends, and travel as required.
- Valid driver’s license and the ability to pass an MVR check.
How to Apply
Submit the following materials:
- Three to five writing samples demonstrating strong reporting skills
Email submissions to [email protected] with the subject line “General Assignment Reporter Application – [Your Name]”.
Pay: $25,194.00 - $29,640.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
