Assignment Editor

Job Description

Assignment Editor - WTAP

About WTAP:

WTAP is THE main voice in the Mid-Ohio Valley. We may be among the smallest TV stations in America, but we are also one of the most dynamic. With state-of-the-art technology, a terrific on-air look, and a dynamic digital presence … you'll be proud of the work you'll do here. And you'll grow quickly because there is so much opportunity! You'll get to explore whatever you want to do in the communications field, whether it's on-camera, behind-the-scenes, or in sales. The WTAP team is involved in the communities we cover. From covering high school sports, to participating in local events, to helping small businesses grow and thrive through commercials and mobile products, WTAP does it all. And we do it all – together.

The Mid-Ohio Valley includes the communities of Parkersburg, WV and Marietta, OH and the 50-mile area surrounding them. It's the kind of place where you can walk down the street and say ''hi'' to people and they'll say ''hi'' right back at you! It's the kind of place where local news-people become like family to the viewers and on-line readers they serve and communicate with. There are wonderful parks, great hiking and biking areas, high-quality restaurants, and shopping – whether you like a mall or the uniqueness of small stores on main street. Our area is big on heritage and the many fairs and festival reflect that passion. Marietta College gives its hometown a New England feel. Ohio University and the community of Athens, Ohio, are nearby.
The Ohio River is the common thread that runs through everything and the Blennerhassett State Park, located on an island of the same name very close to Parkersburg, is a historic and beautiful place to get away to on a summer day.

There's much to see and do within a couple of hours drive from our location in Western West Virginia and Southeastern Ohio. Whitewater rafting, snow skiing and so much more are available in the mountains of West Virginia. The locally situated Mid-Ohio Valley regional airport and airports in Charleston, West Virginia, and Akron, Columbus, and Cleveland, Ohio, give you access to anywhere you want to go. Wherever you may travel though, our area is proud of its history and heritage with roots in oil and industry which have helped shape our region into what it is today. WTAP's commitment to serve the Mid-Ohio Valley, the place that we call home, shows that it doesn't matter what the market size… we are here doing what really matters.

Job Summary/Description:

WTAP News has an opening for a full-time Assignment Editor. This a key position in the WTAP newsroom. This person will be responsible for coordinating assignments for news coverage and stories on multiple media platforms. This will must be able to manage breaking news and severe weather coverage. An outgoing and confident personality is necessary. This position will be mainly Monday through Friday, but some fill-in work on weekends, evenings and holidays can be expected.

Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
* Lead the news team in morning and afternoon editorial/story meetings
* Assist in all decision-making and content-strategies
* Review rundowns and scripts
* Work with MMJs to determine direction of stories and expectations
* Brainstorm with staff on story ideas, showcasing and presentation
* Have ability to generate original stories and develop follow-ups, track social media for news gathering
* Develop and alter coverage plans when necessary
* Help develop leads and big stories
* Excellent writer/storyteller
* Team building, coaching, leadership and direction for all team members
* Develop & maintain contacts with government agencies (city, state, federal), and public relations representatives.
* Work with News Director on promotable content calendar and any special events
* Will have the opportunity fill-in as producer/anchor when needed (For on-air & OTT)
* Work on/report special projects/stories
* Other duties as assigned

Qualifications/Requirements:
- Communications or Journalism degree from a four-year university
- Previous newsroom experience
- Demonstrated ability to manage people and other resources
- Must be versed in broadcast and digital writing styles
- Ability to work in fast paced environment with daily deadlines and changing priorities
- Must have a valid Driver's License

If you feel you're qualified and want to work with a great group of people go to https://gray.tv/careers#currentopening, you may type in the job title, station call letters, or click on ''apply now'', upload your resume, cover letter and references

Jobcode: Reference SBJ-r0bqq1-3-15-202-4-42 in your application.