Legislative Reporter

The Sacramento Bee Capitol Bureau is seeking a competitive reporter to break news and develop exclusive reporting on one of our marquee beats: the California Legislature. Every challenge confronting California today comes through the Capitol: housing, homelessness, employment, climate change, inequality, criminal justice and more. Gov. Gavin Newsom and legislative leaders have urgent issues to address, while also cutting the budget to address a multibillion-dollar deficit. We're looking for a reporter who can deliver coverage that interprets the Capitol for our readers and holds elected officials accountable for their decisions. This journalist will be part of The Sacramento Bee's Capitol Bureau, a group of aggressive reporters who cover the policies and politics of the largest state in the nation and the fourth-largest economy in the world. We're seeking an enterprising reporter who can deliver both quick-turn daily coverage and more in-depth accountability journalism. This journalist will be based in Sacramento, one of the most compelling political cities in the country, and will have opportunities to collaborate with experienced journalists in Sacramento; Washington, D.C.; and other McClatchy California newsrooms. Candidates should have experience in government reporting and a talent for explaining complex information in terms that are engaging and easy to understand. The successful candidate will have a demonstrated commitment to fairness and accuracy, in fact and in tone, and a strong grounding in journalism ethics. Like all McClatchy journalists, this reporter must have demonstrated the desire and skills to build audience loyalty, engagement and growth around compelling public service journalism. At The Sacramento Bee, the reader comes first. Serving readers in a crowded media marketplace means being the best and most relevant source of journalism that matters to them - and ensuring that our work reaches them wherever they are. This will require a keen understanding of what's important to readers, developed through reporting on and familiarity with the region; through the use of audience analytics; and through awareness of what people are sharing and talking about on social media. Minimum requirements: At least 5 years of reporting experience. Strong writing and reporting skills and excellent news judgment. Unwavering commitment to accurate, ethical journalism. The ability to break news in a competitive media market, develop strong sources and write quickly on deadline. Demonstrated ability to use social media platforms to reach and engage with audiences Fluency in the science of readership and engagement, including an understanding of how to use analytics such as page views, time on site and referral sources to help determine which stories resonate with which audiences. Strong interpersonal skills, including empathy and the ability to take and give constructive criticism. Our workflows require constant conversations between reporters and editors, and between reporters and their audience as a story evolves. Demonstrated ability to work comfortably in a job that will be fast-paced, data-driven and shaped constantly by feedback and experimentation. The anticipated base pay range for this position is between $34.36 and $41.03 per hour, up to 37.5 hours per week. Individual base pay may vary within that range depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience and relevant education. To apply, please include a cover letter, your resume and four to six examples of your best work. What we'll bring: As a journalist at McClatchy, you will join a supportive, flexible, collaborative team. McClatchy strives to be an employer of choice, and our benefits package is made with this goal in mind. With a focus on well-being and daily life, our package options include healthcare coverage for employees and their families, financial protection from expected and unexpected expenses, multiple no-cost wellness resources and even coverage for four-legged friends. Our overall benefits package also includes a 401(k) with employer match, competitive paid time off and corporate holidays, and a variety of mental health benefits. For more information on McClatchy's benefit plan, please visit McClatchyLivewell.com. About McClatchy: Our impact is growing every day. We have 30 growing news markets. Over 65 million monthly readers. 56 Pulitzer Prizes. A strong portfolio of dynamic partnerships and smart investments. Our award-winning journalism, digital reach, and commitment to innovative growth have never been stronger. As a member of the McClatchy family, you are part of an exciting culture dedicated to creating a work/life balance and consistent opportunities for growth - a place where you have a voice and the ability to impact our future. It's an exciting time to be here. Our company is experiencing the most transformative period in its history. We're growing rapidly in the digital space and delivering award-winning journalism in innovative ways. LI-RB1