Climate Reporter/Producer

WSKG Public Media is seeking a radio news climate reporter and producer to staff our Ithaca bureau in upstate New York. The reporter will produce news coverage on climate change and environmental issues in Ithaca and the surrounding region. Coverage will include monitoring New York’s ambitious energy goals as it addresses climate change and transitions into more sustainable energy.

Key Responsibilities: 

Generate story ideas, meet deadlines, produce in-depth, human-centered stories on climate and sustainability topics.

Conduct thorough research and reporting on how climate change is specifically impacting the Ithaca region and surrounding areas.

Investigate and highlight the vulnerabilities of local communities, ecosystems and infrastructure to climate-related risks such as extreme weather events.

Shine a spotlight on how climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable and marginalized communities, including low-income neighborhoods, minority populations, and rural areas.

Explore and report on innovative solutions, policies, and initiatives aimed at mitigating and adapting to climate change.

Develop accurate, compelling, sound-rich multimedia news stories. Produce spot news, web stories and features across multiple platforms, including radio, digital and social media.

Develop and maintain relationships with a diverse range of sources.

Collaborate with editors, reporters, photographers, videographers and other team members to produce high-quality news content in the form of podcasts, two-way interviews, reporter debriefs, public affairs shows, etc.

Promote community engagement by participating in public forums, outreach events, and discussions related to environmental issues.

Travel for broader regional or statewide reporting assignments.

Stay informed and utilize the latest technologies in journalism with multimedia storytelling and social media.

Fill in for the news director, hosts and assist with daily news coverage, when needed.

Participate in on-air fundraising and station events.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in broadcast journalism, communications, environmental studies or a related field.

Two years of journalism or relevant experience covering general assignments and/or environmental policies.

Strong writing and storytelling skills.

Convey complex information clearly.

Excellent research and investigative skills, with attention to detail and accuracy.

Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

Knowledge of broadcast news writing, AP style and familiarity with journalistic ethics and standards.

Ability to establish and maintain relationships with sources.

Proficiency in digital audio recording and editing, multimedia storytelling, digital platforms, social media, photography, and video.

Familiarity with the Ithaca region.

Knowledge of statewide issues on climate change and the environment.

Valid driver's license and ability to travel for assignments as needed.

Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, as needed.

This position will be based in the Ithaca area. The reporter is expected to live in Tompkins County or the surrounding area.

Please note: This is a two-year, grant-funded union position with the potential to extend the term upon successful completion of the goals and demonstrated impact during the grant period.

Ithaca is a small city located in the Finger Lakes region with a college-town vibe, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning natural beauty. Its downtown consists of many shops, restaurants, cafes, galleries and music venues. Ithaca is home to Cornell University and Ithaca College, two renowned educational institutions. The city is known for its commitment to eco-friendly initiatives, emphasizing sustainability and renewable energy.

WSKG Public Media is a non-profit, community-supported public media organization in Vestal, NY. WSKG covers 21 counties in New York’s Southern Tier, central New York and northeast Pennsylvania. It operates two radio stations and a television station, broadcasting a mix of local and national programming, educational programs, news and public affairs shows, documentaries, and arts and cultural programs. The news department has won numerous awards from the Associated Press, Public Radio News Directors Incorporated and New York State Broadcasters Association.

Learn more at WSKG.org.

Salary: $48,750     FLSA status: Exempt

Day to Day Activities reporting to: WSKG News director
 

WSKG is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

We welcome your interest in joining our team