Senior Reporter, KSBY

Senior Reporter, KSBY is a journalism role with Scripps based in Santa Barbara-San Luis Obispo, CA. This position focuses on generating original story ideas and content for broadcast, digital, and social platforms, fronting morning newscasts, reporting from the field, and delivering leading content for other newscasts. The role emphasizes accurate, compelling storytelling, strong source development for enterprise reporting, and mentoring newer reporters while representing KSBY in the community. The position requires meeting daily and long-term deadlines, managing multiple stories, and driving to cover assignments throughout the viewing area. The compensation range for this role in California is $72,000 to $82,000 per year, with a benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, retirement savings with company match, and additional benefits.

Responsibilities

• Generate original story ideas and develop content for broadcast, digital, and social platforms.
• Front morning newscast, report from the field, and turn leading content for other newscasts.
• Research, write, and deliver accurate, compelling stories that inform and engage audiences.
• Cultivate a strong network of sources to uncover exclusive and enterprise reporting opportunities.
• Identify the best angle, approach, and storytelling techniques for each assignment.
• Serve as a mentor and resource for newer reporters in the newsroom.
• Represent KSBY throughout the community by participating in station and local events.
• Meet daily and long-term production deadlines while managing multiple stories and priorities.
• Drive a personal or company vehicle to cover assignments throughout the viewing area.

Requirements

• BS/BA in Journalism, Communications, or a related field preferred, or equivalent professional experience.
• 5+ years of reporting or related journalism experience preferred.
• Valid driver's license, strong driving record, and ability to provide proof of insurance meeting company requirements.
• Ability to drive regularly as part of daily news-gathering responsibilities.
• Exceptional reporting and storytelling skills across multiple platforms.
• Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
• A dynamic on-air presence with the ability to connect authentically with viewers.
• Advanced critical thinking and sound news judgment.
• Ability to develop enterprise stories and pursue leads independently.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple assignments simultaneously.
• A collaborative, team-first mindset and a positive newsroom attitude.
• Passion for community engagement and relationship building.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.