Reporter/Producer
The Roy Howard Community Journalism Center (RHCJC) is looking for a full-time
Reporter/Producer to join our team. In this role, the Reporter/Producer is responsible for
reporting across assigned coverage areas and producing content across multiple platforms,
including video, audio, and written reports for broadcast, print, and digital platforms. The
Reporter/Producer will lead assigned student teams in performing a variety of journalistic tasks.
This position is based in Jackson, Mississippi and the successful candidate is required to live in
the area as a condition of employment.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
-Gathers and verifies factual information for stories through interviews, observation and
research.
-Captures appropriate audio, video, still photos, and other data and information types for the
professional production of a variety of news products that will be delivered across platforms.
-Works closely with high school and university-level interns and student journalists to ensure
professional standards are met.
-Generates creative story ideas daily based on RHCJC’s strategic plan.
-Assists center director in recruiting students.
-Attends and assists in the set-up and promotion of all public RHCJC activities statewide.
-Supervises individual students and/or reporting teams as assigned.
-Performs other duties as assigned by the center director.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in media or related field. 2-3 years of
professional media experience in related field. Strong interest in government and legislative
reporting. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. Valid driver’s license with good driving record.
Computer literacy required. This position is based in Jackson. Successful candidate is required
to live in the area as a condition of employment. Ability to travel to RHCJC in Hattiesburg as
assigned or required.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities (KSA)
-Demonstrates high proficiency in news writing, including AP style, grammar and spelling.
-Ability to capture video and still images suitable for professional presentation.
-Ability to edit photos, video and other files and material in common industry software, such as
the Adobe Creative Suite.
-Demonstrates knowledge of social media and other digital platforms.
-Demonstrates knowledge of journalism ethics and law, including libel standards, Open Record
and Open Meeting statutes, and Mississippi and federal Freedom of Information Acts.
-Ability to understand and implement all appropriate university and board-established center
policies.
-Ability to assimilate large amounts of data quickly and accurately.
-Ability to communicate effectively with those from a wide range of backgrounds, education
levels and varying skills.
-Ability to effectively deal with the public and establish long-standing relationships with key
stakeholders.
-Ability to meet deadlines.
-Self-motivated and able to work in a deadline-driven environment.
-Proficiency at posting content to various websites.
Preferred Qualifications
-Videography and non-linear editing experience.
-At least five (5) years of media industry experience.
-At least 1-2 years of government and legislative reporting experience.
Apply Here:
https://usm.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/5050?c=usm
About the Roy Howard Community Journalism Center
The Roy Howard Community Journalism Center is dedicated to enhancing the media landscape
in Southeast Mississippi by prioritizing impactful people-centered, issue-oriented reporting,
combating mis- and disinformation, fostering the growth and development of student journalists,
and strengthening media partnerships. Our mission is to empower local voices, support
accurate and critical journalism through media literacy, provide hands-on coaching to emerging
media professionals, and collaborate with regional media organizations to build a more informed
and engaged community. Established in 2025, the Roy Howard Community Journalism Center
is based at the University of Southern Mississippi’s School of Media and Communication and is
supported by a grant from the Scripps Howard Foundation. For more information, visit
rhcjcnews.com.
About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to
preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in
Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast,
as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as
one of the nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports
safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are
also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography,
nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies
through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean
engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to
critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a
tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation
accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes
compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence,
Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit
www.usm.edu.
As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities
Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans
and persons with disabilities to apply.