Transportation Reporter, Plan Philly

About WHYY

WHYY serves the Philadelphia region with trusted journalism, eye-opening storytelling and intimate local arts programming. Our curiosity and commitment to this community is what drives our programming. It’s also what drives our hiring.

Below you’ll find an employment opportunity in the fast-paced setting of the Philadelphia region’s leading public media provider. The award-winning professional staff of WHYY sets the bar high in television, radio and online. Whether it’s preparing a program to air or a behind-the-scenes role in support, all positions are vital to continuing—and growing—our impact in our community.

WHYY offers a voice to those not heard, a platform to share everyone’s stories, a foundation to empower early and lifelong learners and a trusted space for unbiased news. Learn more about our Social Responsibility Program. It’s how we live.

About the Role

This position is a key member of PlanPhilly’s editorial team, providing daily coverage of Philadelphia’s planning and development news for WHYY multi-media platforms including website and radio. This position will focus on news that affects transportation infrastructure with an emphasis on equity.

This position is responsible for enterprise reporting, strong writing and audio production on deadline, sharp editing, and impeccable news judgement.  A knowledge or interest in transportation is essential.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Works independently to research and generate story ideas.
• Research, report, and produce news feature stories.
• Edit stories for content, copy, accuracy, and style for PlanPhilly team as needed.
• Present and workshop story ideas at editorial/production meetings.
• Help develop, coordinate, lead, and produce feature series and events ideas, developing programs and new projects.
• Use social media to cultivate contacts and promote work.
• Cultivate and maintain sources.
• Prepare stories for publishing online.
• Work odd hours as news or events require.
• Keep current with news, local events and national trends in urbanism.

• Maintain a regular and predictable attendance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

PERIODIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Photography for publication online responsible for taking and posting pictures.
• Assist in fundraising campaigns.
• Participate in community events.

Education: A bachelor’s degree in journalism or a related discipline or the equivalent experience is required

Experience: 3-5 years of journalism experience, ideally covering news in an urban setting or urban real estate development and related topics.

Technical Skills: Must have strong computer literacy with current knowledge of writing and editing software, online content management systems, and social medial platforms.  Must be able to easily adapt to new technical tolls. Familiarity with audio/video production tools, mapping platforms, and design software is desirable.  

*This position is represented by SAG-AFTRA.

*All WHYY employees are required to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. Proof will be required upon hiring.