The Nebraska Examiner is an award-winning nonpartisan, nonprofit news organization that covers state government, politics and policy. It is staffed by reporters dedicated to its mission of relentless journalism that sheds light on how decisions are made and their impact on people across the Cornhusker State.

Part of States Newsroom, the Nebraska Examiner believes in enlisting and empowering journalists to do impactful, ambitious work.

Based in Lincoln, this reporter will thrive in a collaborative culture, possess great news judgment, and demonstrate the ability to create compelling, engaging journalism. The reporter will cover the Legislature, state agencies and elections, plus pursue enterprise, including humanizing budget choices. The reporter will produce daily, midrange and enterprise stories, take photos and share content on social media.

The ideal candidate will know how to hold officials accountable through source-building and public records requests. Our reporting aims to take readers beyond press releases and provide deeper understanding of issues.

This position is funded by a three-year grant, with the possibility for renewal. 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Produce regular, high-quality reporting on issues facing Nebraska
• Contribute to the Examiner’s briefs section
• Generate story ideas with the editor
• Pursue story leads, both self-generated and as assigned, with self-direction and strong news judgment
• Approach assignments on deadline with strong communication and follow through with the editor and colleagues
• Collaborate with other reporters on daily coverage, projects and share research and pertinent knowledge when available
• Establish and expand digital media presence representing the outlet
• Take photos and video to illustrate and make stories more accessible 

QUALIFICATIONS

We’re looking for candidates with at least five years of news reporting and/or editing experience, sound news judgment, flexibility and the ability to manage ongoing and short-term projects with strong attention to detail and accuracy. Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. States Newsroom journalists are expected to produce at least four posts per week.

Authorization to work in the United States is required. At this time, States Newsroom is unable to provide visa sponsorship.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

The minimum salary for this position is $62,000. Relocation stipend will be considered. Our generous benefits package includes:

• Premium-free platinum health care for employees and their families (i.e., nothing comes out of your paycheck!)
• 4 weeks of vacation per year
• 2 weeks of personal leave per year
• 20 hours of paid volunteer time per year
• 11 paid holidays per year
• $75 monthly cell phone reimbursement
• $200 cell phone replacement benefit every two years
• $75 monthly fitness benefit
• 401K with up to 3% match
• 12 weeks of parental leave
• Full-service EAP

ABOUT OUR CULTURE 

States Newsroom is dedicated to producing journalism at all levels – from quick hit to investigative – but we also aim to be supportive, welcoming, and positive. 

We believe in creating sustainable careers for journalists on the crucial state government beat. States Newsroom’s mission is to connect people to the power that shapes their daily lives through relentless reporting and incisive commentary on state government and policy. Journalism is a powerful force for social change, uniquely suited to challenging systemic inequality and racism. Our goal is to build an organization that fulfills that mission. 

At States Newsroom, we believe we strengthen our work and improve our insights when we incorporate the perspectives of people who come from different backgrounds and have had different experiences. We are committed to diversity and prioritize equity in all recruiting and hiring. We are always working to better represent our communities and are supported in these efforts by a network-wide Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice committee. 

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, send a cover letter, resume, and at least three links or clips to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Due to the high volume of emails received, we are unable to respond to each applicant individually.