Crime and Courts Reporter

The Press and Journal is looking for an experienced, talented and creative journalist to join its crime and courts team.

As one of the only media organisations in Scotland that staffs our courts on a daily basis, our coverage of cases at sheriff and High Court level is a key focus in the newsroom.  

Based in Aberdeen, the reporter will have responsibility for covering courts in the city, as well as creating innovative content for our website and newspaper.

The successful candidate will be a confident journalist who is able to write accurate court reports as well as having a passion for telling crime stories.   

Candidates should have an interest in this area and experience in news reporting but creativity is key. Our ideal applicant will not only find stories and come up with ideas but take an innovative approach in how they are told.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide coverage of Aberdeen court stories for our online, social media and print platforms
• Develop strong network of contacts within the Aberdeen police and legal community, as well as the wider local environment
• Provide unique, "must read" feature, data-driven analysis and trusted crime-based content
• Contribute ideas for and participate in the production of innovative audio and video content
• Package content attractively for online consumption and ensure search engine optimisation (SEO) standards are met
• Proactively use social media to build and maintain an engaged audience
• Work closely with colleagues across the business to maximise the impact of crime and courts content

Requirements

Key Requirements

• Experience of journalism or content production, ideally in a busy regional or national newsroom
• Ability to work well under pressure while maintaining accuracy
• 100wpm shorthand essential
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong knowledge of Scots Law with a particular emphasis court reporting legislation
• Strong knowledge of social media and ability to think outside the box
• Ability to think creatively about story presentation
• Knowledge of IPSO Editors' Code of Practice
• Relevant degree or other qualification preferred but not essential
• Driving licence

To apply for this role, please follow our online application process and submit a CV and cover letter.

Benefits

This is a full-time, permanent position, working 35 hours per week from our Aberdeen Office.  We offer a generous package including 34 days holiday, health cash plan, gym discount, excellent pension, a competitive salary, and many more staff discounts and benefits.

We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from everyone and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability or any other protected characteristics. 

If you have any issues with your application, please email [email protected]

Closing date for applications is 25th October 2024.

Please note that we reserve the right to close the vacancy early once we have received suitable applications. Therefore, please ensure you submit your application as early as possible to avoid disappointment.