Kansas State University sports beat writer

The Topeka Capital-Journal , part of the USA TODAY Network, is looking for a motivated self-starter to cover Kansas State University athletics, with an emphasis on Wildcats football and basketball.

We are seeking someone who is ambitious, can find news, tell stories others aren't telling and not just follow the crowd. If you possess the qualities of patience and persistence to build quality sources and the curiosity to dig for answers and write enterprising features, this opening is for you.

We want someone who will create a following on the beat by writing with voice and authority and not be afraid of alternatives story paths - through audience engagement, writing style and dissemination on traditional news sites and through social media. This reporter also will be comfortable using metrics to understand the kind of content that is gaining positive reader response.

This reporter is expected to live in the Manhattan, Kansas, area to be close to Kansas State and on the ground when and where news happens. The "Little Apple" is a thriving Midwest college town in the Flint Hills region that boasts eclectic shopping, unique local dining and proximity to many outdoors and nature attractions.

Responsibilities:

• Create storytelling that accurately informs, entertains and engages specific audiences and platforms through the use of metrics.
• Connect with our readers through storytelling and outreach (social media, on camera, forums, community leadership, etc.). Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
• Work with editor and content strategist to evaluate what's working and what's not and develop ongoing plans to satisfy audience needs.
• Collaborate to provide appropriate elements for stories (i.e. photos, videos and graphics). Capture basic photos and video as needed.
• Promote personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.
• Provide great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's or master's degree in communications, journalism or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Previous sports reporting experience, including face-to-face communication with athletes and coaches.
• Proficiency on social media platforms; including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Reddit.
• Experience shooting and editing photos and video on a mobile device.
• Strong communication skills, news judgement and headline-writing ability.
• Ability to multitask and excel under intense deadline pressure.
• Ability to work collaboratively and efficiently.
• Strong writing, spelling and grammar skills.
• Ability to work nights and weekends.

This position requires a valid driver's license, reliable transportation and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.

How To Apply:

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:

• Your resume - one to two pages.
• A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
• 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 this 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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