News24 has a vacancy for a Night General News Journalist, based in Johannesburg.Duties and Responsibilities: Break developing and enterprise stories, accurately and quickly;Work to tight deadlines to produce accurate hard news stories, including breaking news;Investigate and research original content and ideas for news stories;Generate and maintain a strong network of contacts across key sections of society, including, but not limited to, police, emergency services, government and state institutions, social justice organisation, non-governmental organisations and community bodies;Write quality news and feature articles, adhering to strict deadlines and News24's style;Adhere to the quality, style and content standards as laid out and required by News24;Create target-market-specific articles;Generate ideas for news stories on a daily basis;Comply with the requirements of the South African Press Code;Generate and liaise with network of contacts to assist with research or completion of articles/features;Will be required to take photographs and shoot video as required;Live reporting on stories as they unfold, feeding into News24's live updates;Secure newsmakers for in-depth interviews on topical issues.Skills & Competencies:Proficient in relevant computer software packages and application;Demonstrable passion for news;Strong knowledge of current affairs;Established network of contacts (over and above official spokespersons);Strong command of English;Creativity;Able to work under extreme pressure and to strict deadlines;Good time management, the ability to multitask effectively and complete tasks timeously;Sound news judgment;Knowledge of the online news environment and digital publishing tools, including mobile video and photos;Knowledge of social media;Detail orientation;Good people skills;Quality orientation and the ability to deliver clean copy;Good decision-making abilities;Persistence and results orientated;Strong questioning and listening skills;The ability to work independently;Resilient.Minimum Requirements: Diploma or degree in journalism, languages, politics or media studies;Experience writing for a mainstream newspaper or magazine or reporting for an online or wire news operation or a broadcast news service;At least 4 years' experience;Good general knowledge;Insightful knowledge of South Africa's socio-political landscape;Knowledge of topical issues and current affairs;Demonstrable network of contacts;Valid driver's licence;Given the employment equity policy of Media24, preference will be given to suitable candidates from the designated groups.
