Video Journalist, L.A. Bureau

As a Video Journalist at The New York Times, you'll be responsible for a variety of tasks, including sourcing, scripting, and editing news video packages. You'll independently produce breaking news stories and collaborate with colleagues to pitch and report on significant stories. Familiarity with video verification and open-source reporting techniques is crucial as you'll need to fact-check scripts and visuals effectively.

To qualify for the Video Journalist role at The New York Times, candidates should have at least 5 years of journalism experience, particularly in a digital video or broadcast newsroom. Proficiency in Adobe Premiere Pro is essential, alongside strong editorial judgment and excellent writing skills. Candidates should be passionate about finding original visual journalism opportunities and should be well-versed in social media platforms.

The New York Times is deeply committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. This commitment extends to the Video Journalist position, where diverse perspectives are vital for quality journalism. The company encourages candidates from various backgrounds, including women, veterans, and people of color, to apply, recognizing that true inclusivity benefits both their journalism and the broader community they serve.

Successful Video Journalists at The New York Times should have strong editorial judgment, advanced writing and research skills, as well as proficiency in video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro. The ability to work under tight deadlines in a fast-paced newsroom and adapt to the unpredictable nature of daily news production is critical. A passion for visual storytelling and innovative ideas for news coverage are also important.

The work environment for a Video Journalist at The New York Times is fast-paced and collaborative. This hybrid position entails regular in-office attendance, allowing you to work closely with correspondents and the Reporter Video team. You'll be engaging in an exciting newsroom atmosphere, staying on top of breaking news, and working creatively with other journalists to bring powerful stories to the forefront.

In your response, share specific projects where you've used software like Adobe Premiere Pro. Highlight your ability to edit quickly and accurately, mentioning any challenges you overcame during production. Focus on the final outcome and how your editing contributed to effective storytelling.

When answering, discuss your process for identifying unique angles and relevant topics. Provide examples of successful pitches and how they were executed, showcasing your understanding of audience interests and the importance of original storytelling in journalism.

Highlight your familiarity with video verification techniques and open-source reporting. Discuss specific tools or methods you employ to ensure accuracy in your stories. Mention the importance of trustworthiness in journalism and how your strategies help uphold that standard.

Share your methods for staying updated, such as following relevant news outlets, engaging with industry networks, or utilizing social media. Discuss how this knowledge shapes your reporting and storytelling, particularly in visually rich formats.

Be prepared to describe a specific breaking news situation. Outline your role in the coverage, the challenges you faced, and how you adapted to the fast-paced environment to deliver timely, compelling content. This showcases your ability to think on your feet.

Explain your experience working with reporters, producers, and other departments. Provide examples of successful projects where collaboration enhanced the story's impact. Emphasize communication and team spirit as vital components of your working style.

Talk about the elements you consider when crafting visual stories, such as pacing, transitions, and how to incorporate audience engagement methods. Mention any innovative techniques you’ve used to captivate viewers while still delivering important information.

Share examples of how you've managed tight deadlines in the past, prioritizing tasks and maintaining quality under pressure. Discuss your time management strategies and your ability to remain calm and focused in high-stress situations.

Discuss how you leverage social media for sourcing content, promoting stories, and engaging with the audience. Highlight instances where social media has played an integral part in reaching wider viewers or sourcing user-generated content.

Express your understanding of the value of journalistic independence and its importance in maintaining credibility and trust with the audience. Use examples from your experience to demonstrate your commitment to impartial reporting and the ethical considerations that guide your work.