Local Government Accountability Reporter

USA TODAY Co., Inc. is a diversified media company with expansive reach at the national and local level dedicated to empowering and enriching communities. We seek to inspire, inform, and connect audiences as a sustainable, growth-focused media and digital marketing solutions company. Through our trusted brands, including the USA TODAY NETWORK and Newsquest in the United Kingdom, we provide essential journalism, local content, and digital experiences to audiences and businesses.

About the role

The Argus Leader/argusleader.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, seeks an enterprising reporter to cover local government—often through a state political lens—without focusing on day-to-day politics already covered by competitors. The government accountability reporter will primarily cover the Sioux Falls City Council and two county governments, with occasional smaller municipalities. They will use state-level developments to shape local coverage about how state policy affects southeastern South Dakota residents.

This position will contextualize issues in the fastest-growing city in the Midwest and South Dakota’s largest city, with potential to supplement state coverage for Gannett’s smaller South Dakota publications. The role may also contribute to national coverage during election seasons, given South Dakota’s prominence and influence. The reporter must find Sioux Falls residents impacted by state policies and tell their stories in engaging, enlightening ways.

Travel to and occasional coverage of politics at the state Capitol in Pierre, South Dakota, may be required to assist with Reuters' wire services. The reporter must embrace our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring diverse voices are included in storytelling. Video skills are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Create storytelling that accurately informs, entertains, and engages specific audiences and platforms using metrics.
• Work toward becoming the community’s leading voice in the area of expertise.
• Connect with the community through storytelling and outreach (social media, on camera, forums, community leadership, etc.).
• Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
• Work with the editor to evaluate metrics, assess what’s working, and develop plans to better satisfy audience needs.
• Collaborate to provide all appropriate elements for stories, such as photos, videos, and graphics; capture basic photos and videos as needed.
• Promote personal brand, the brands of colleagues, and the institutional brand.
• Provide great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.
• Perform other duties as necessary.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communication, journalism, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least three years of daily journalism experience.
• Ability to write clear, compelling articles and enhance work with video and other digital storytelling tools.
• Understanding of social media and its uses.
• Understanding of metrics and ability to adapt based on data feedback.
• Ability to multi-task and excel under deadline pressure in a 24-hour newsroom.
• Skill at collaborating in a cross-functional environment and adapting in a rapidly changing industry.
• This job includes some evening and weekend work.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and minimum liability insurance required by state law.