The Office of Communications and Public Engagement News Writer plays a critical role in research, writing and field reporting of news and current events that encapsulate the spirit of Liberty University's student life, academics, athletics and administration. The primary responsibility of the News Writer is to take initiative in uncovering compelling and pertinent stories from students, faculty and key administrators that effectively promote Liberty's mission and programming to internal and external audiences. The News Writer will be tasked with relevant beat reporting, enabling them to develop a deeper and more knowledgeable understanding of various facets of Liberty University life. This position will operate under direct supervision of the Senior Managing Editor of Liberty News, ensuring a focused and coordinated approach to storytelling and comprehensive news coverage. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Able to take assignments, pursue leads, field interviews, analyze and verify relevant facts and information and write compelling interest stories.
2. Must be able to write clean copy that is factually and grammatically correct following all formatting guidelines.
3. Create original written content for LU News, all Liberty owned websites, and the Liberty Journal magazine.
4. Keep and maintain a regular schedule for beat reporting that builds professional rapport with deans, faculty, and administrators.
5. Must be able to work independently in the office and in the field without strict oversight or supervision and in a expeditious manner charging towards a deadline.
6. Strictly adheres to Liberty University policies, representing the University in an exemplary manner.
7. Works effectively as a team member, embracing and fostering LU's mission.
QUALIFICATIONS AND CREDENTIALS
Education and Experience Minimum Qualifications: Bachelors degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Working knowledge and proficiency with Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite and quick learner of Liberty systems and online tools. Good telephone etiquette, writing proficiency, multi-tasking and problem-solving skills. Must have maintain etiquette and have the ability to adapt to changing environment.
Preferred Qualifications: In addition to a relevant Bachelors degree, 2 years' experience as a news writer or journalist. Significant experience in a writing-related field that involves reporting, copy editing, and storytelling. Proficient with Liberty proprietary systems and software.
ABILITIES AND COMPETENCIES ESSENTIAL TO THE FUNCTION OF THE JOB
Communication and Comprehension Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing to convey clear, well articulated information. Ability to understand, speak, and write English in order to convey messages and correspond in an articulate and professional manner. Possess public communication skills that allow professional representation of Liberty University to a variety of business, government and community customers and associates. Strong organizational skills. Computer and scheduling skills. Problem Solving Intuitively able to reason, analyze information and events, and apply judgment in order to solve problems of both a routine and complex nature. Physical and Sensory Abilities Required to travel to local and campus locations. May be required to sit to perform deskwork or type on a keyboard. Regularly required to hear and speak in order to effectively communicate orally. Regularly required to stand, walk, and climb stairs to move about the campus. Handle materials, reach overhead, kneel or stoop in order to conduct business. Regularly lift 10 or fewer pounds. WORKING CONDITION
Work Environment The working environment in which one will typically perform the essential functions of this position is a climate-controlled setting. It is well lighted and the noise level is moderate. Working environment also includes facilitation of events outdoors occasionally.
Driving Requirements Use of one's personal vehicle (or LU vehicles) may be required for travel in the performance of the essential functions of this position. Proof of a valid Virginia driver's license, an acceptable DMV record, and liability insurance is required.
