Reporter, Florida Phoenix

Join the Florida Phoenix and give readers hard-hitting government coverage that connects state policy to Floridians’ lives. The Florida Phoenix is an award-winning nonpartisan, nonprofit news organization covering state government, politics, and policy. Staffed by veteran Florida reporters, it is dedicated to relentless journalism that sheds light on how decisions in Tallahassee affect people across the Sunshine State. Part of States Newsroom, the Florida Phoenix believes in enlisting and empowering journalists to do meaningful, ambitious work.

About the role

Based in Tallahassee, this reporter will cover the Legislature, state agencies, statewide elections, and other assignments, with an emphasis on immigration. The role requires great news judgment, the ability to create compelling journalism, and strong collaboration with other Phoenix journalists. The reporter will produce daily and enterprise stories, take photos, and share content on social media. A strong command of vertical video-based social media (e.g., Instagram, TikTok) is ideal, along with the ability to track trending topics, hold officials accountable through deep source building, and use public records requests. Spanish language skills are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Produce regular, high-quality reporting on issues facing Florida
• Generate story ideas with the editor
• Pursue story leads, both self-generated and assigned, with self-direction and solid news judgment
• Approach assignments on deadline with strong communication and follow through with the editor and colleagues
• Collaborate with other reporters on projects and share research and pertinent knowledge when available
• Establish and expand digital media presence representing the outlet and use personal social media to amplify the site’s content, presence, and voice
• Take photos and video to illustrate and amplify stories

Requirements

• At least two years of news reporting and/or editing experience (student journalism counts)
• Sound news judgment, flexibility, and the ability to manage ongoing and short-term projects with strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Authorization to work in the United States (visa sponsorship is not provided at this time)
• Ability to produce at least four posts per week

Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

Benefits

• Premium-free platinum health care for employees (75% of medical premiums covered for qualified dependents)
• 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 Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Pay

$54,000 per year (minimum salary). Relocation stipend may be considered.

About Our Culture

States Newsroom is dedicated to producing journalism at all levels—from quick hits to investigative—while fostering a supportive, welcoming, and positive environment. The organization believes in creating sustainable careers for journalists on the state government beat. Its mission is to connect people to the power that shapes their daily lives through relentless reporting and incisive commentary on state government and policy.

States Newsroom is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, prioritizing these values in recruiting and hiring. The organization is supported by a network-wide Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice committee and strives to better represent the communities it serves.