KWTV Chief Photographer

A Chief Photographer at News 9 helps drive the Ideal Team Player culture.

Job Summary: The Chief Photographer will oversee the day-to-day operations of the news Photojournalist and Editor team, ensuring high-quality visual content and efficient newsroom operations. This position manages a team of Photojournalists and Editors and is responsible for coordinating and purchasing technical resources, equipment, and vehicles essential to news coverage. Additionally, the role includes managing the overall workflow of news operations, including camera and editing equipment and resources while collaborating with Multimedia Journalists to enhance visual storytelling and uphold industry standards for news coverage and safety.

Job Responsibilities:

• Supervise, coach, and mentor a team of Photojournalists, Multimedia Journalists, and Editors, providing guidance on shooting techniques, equipment usage, and storytelling through visuals. Responsible for all areas of on-air visual presentation.
• Oversee the maintenance, distribution, and functionality of all photography, video, and editing equipment, including cameras, drones, and vehicles.
• Develop and manage schedules for the Photojournalist and Editor team, ensuring proper coverage for breaking news and planned assignments across the state.
• Conduct regular training sessions for the Photojournalists, and Editors on best practices, including new equipment, safety protocols, and advanced storytelling techniques.
• Work closely with the newsroom, assignment desk, and reporters to plan and execute news stories, ensuring seamless coordination between field crews and the production team.
• Enforce safety protocols for fieldwork, especially during live coverage of severe weather, high-risk events, or hazardous environments.
• Participate in communication with vendors to secure the latest technology to enhance news coverage.
• Ensure consistency in the quality of video content, reviewing footage for storytelling, technical excellence, and journalistic integrity.
• Assist in the planning and execution of special news projects or events, coordinating resources for extended coverage, such as elections or major state events.
• Work alongside newsroom managers to maintain and improve newsroom operations, focusing on both efficiency and innovation.
• Serve as the point person for the upkeep, maintenance, of all news department vehicles, ensuring they are properly equipped for news coverage.
• Function as staff photojournalist as needed.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned, including driving an automobile for company business.

Job Schedule: This is a full-time position primarily working 40 hours per week. You may also be called upon at times to fill in other hours and days of the week to help cover vacations, illnesses, breaking news, severe weather, or special projects/events. This position is not eligible to work remotely.

Essential Qualities:

• Humble: A habit of sharing successes, putting the team first, and working for the good of the team. A “we” not “me” attitude. The ability to give and receive constructive criticism. Observe and employ the Golden Rule.
• Hungry: Exhibit a strong work ethic, drive, and willingness to take initiative.
• Smart (People Smart): The virtue of being interpersonally smart about the interactions and relationships of those you encounter.
• Positive Attitude: Exhibited by focusing on opportunities not problems, see the glass as half-full not half-empty.
• Sense of Urgency: How we react and respond. 

Skills and Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in a broadcast related field. Related experience will be evaluated and may be substituted as years of education. 
• Minimum 5-8 years of experience in a television newsroom as a Photographer in a small to medium market.
• Proven experience as a senior-level photojournalist with demonstrated leadership skills. Prior supervisory experience is preferred. 
• In-depth knowledge of news photography, video production, editing, and live broadcast technology.
• Strong understanding of journalistic ethics and visual storytelling.
• Prior experience managing staff, equipment, and logistics in a fast-paced news environment preferred. 
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks under deadline pressure.
• Experience with drone operations is a plus. 
• Technical knowledge of broadcast production equipment.
• Ability to direct and gain the cooperation of others with strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Basic understanding of automotive maintenance to effectively oversee routine vehicle upkeep and to ensure timely repairs as needed.
• Must have, or be able to obtain, a valid Oklahoma driver’s license and have a driving record acceptable to the company. 
• Ability to perform other job-related duties as assigned. 
• Capable of handling the physical and mental requirements including:
  • ability to verbally communicate in English
  • ability to read computer monitor information (words and data)
  • ability to hear detailed spoken word
  • ability to remain sedentary and to travel to work location
  • ability to perform manual dexterity tasks with hands, fingers
  • ability to analyze data, concentrate, reason, and write
  • ability to perform under emotional stress
  • ability to lift 50 pounds unaided
  • ability to work rotating shifts and be on 24-hour call

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.