What are the responsibilities and job description for the Freelance News Stringer/Reporter position at The Argus-Press?
Freelance News Stringer/Reporter
The Argus-Press — Owosso, Michigan
Job Type: Freelance/Independent Contractor
Compensation: Paid per assignment
Schedule: Flexible; evening and occasional weekend availability needed
Experience: Journalism/news reporting experience highly preferred
About the Position
The Argus-Press is seeking experienced freelance stringers to help expand our hyperlocal news coverage throughout Shiawassee County.
We are looking for dependable journalists who can attend local meetings, community events and other assignments and turn around accurate, engaging stories on deadline. This is an ideal opportunity for experienced reporters, retired journalists or freelancers who want to stay involved in local journalism without committing to a full-time newsroom position.
Stringers are paid per completed assignment, with compensation determined based on the type and scope of the assignment.
Assignments may include local government and school board meetings, community events, business features, breaking news, human-interest stories and other local coverage.
Responsibilities
- Attend assigned meetings, events and interviews.
- Write accurate and engaging news stories on deadline.
- Conduct interviews and gather information independently.
- Take basic photos and/or short video clips while on assignment when appropriate.
- Verify names, titles, facts and other information before submitting stories.
- Follow AP style and The Argus-Press editorial standards.
- Communicate with the editor regarding assignments, deadlines and developing stories.
- Work independently while representing The Argus-Press professionally in the community.
Qualifications
Previous journalism or professional news reporting experience is highly preferred.
Ideal candidates will have:
- Strong news writing and interviewing skills.
- An understanding of AP style.
- Strong news judgment and attention to accuracy.
- Experience covering local government, school boards, community news or similar beats.
- The ability to meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
- Reliable transportation and the ability to attend assignments throughout Shiawassee County.
- Availability for some evening meetings and occasional weekend assignments.
- Basic photography and short-form video skills are a plus.
A journalism degree is not required. We are especially interested in candidates who can demonstrate previous professional reporting, freelance journalism or community news experience.
About The Argus-Press
The Argus-Press is a community newspaper serving Owosso and Shiawassee County. Our newsroom is focused on strong, hyperlocal journalism and telling the stories that matter to the communities we serve across print, digital, social media and video.
If you believe in the importance of local journalism and enjoy being out in the community finding and telling stories, we would like to hear from you.
To apply: Please submit a resume and, if available, two to three examples of previously published work or writing samples.
Pay: From $15.00 per hour
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Owosso, MI 48867
Salary : $15