Job Description

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world's population sees AP journalism every day.

The Associated Press is seeking a sports reporter based in Seattle who will cover major professional and college sports in a thriving market.

This staff position is covered by AP’s agreement with the News Media Guild. 

What you will do:

In this role, you will seek to consistently break news and produce distinct, deeply reported enterprise in Seattle about the major pro teams, with an emphasis on the NFL champion Seahawks.

You should be a self-starter who is comfortable juggling a mix of coverage that also includes the Mariners, Kraken, Storm, Sounders and college football. You must also possess proficiency in digitally focused storytelling and video for AP and social media platforms.

We’re looking for a reporter who:

• Can consistently deliver scoops on the major sports teams, especially the Seahawks
• Can handle breaking news about off-the-field developments, whether they are in the courts or front office
• Works collaboratively with colleagues across the AP on big stories
• Is an idea machine, taking a thread of a story and following it to where it leads.
• Is willing to work nights and weekends
• Puts people at the center of the storytelling.
• Writes about complex topics in a manner that can be easily understood by broad audiences.
• Is interested in and excited about telling stories in alternative ways.
• Enjoys working across all formats – text, photo, video, audio, digital/social, interactive and graphics – collaborating from a story’s inception to its publication.
• Has a great news sense, with the ability to communicate and drive stories that people will want to share on social media and other platforms.
• Pursues innovative and inclusive coverage that maintains AP’s standards for integrity and objectivity.

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, such as at least two years of full-time journalism experience and a proven track record of identifying smart, innovative stories that people respond to.
• An experienced journalist with a record of breaking news and producing deeply reported enterprise coverage, preferably in sports.
• A strong source builder who can develop relationships with athletes, coaches, team executives, agents and others across the sports community.
• Skilled at covering both on-field competition and off-the-field developments, including legal matters, business decisions and front-office changes.
• A compelling, accurate writer who can explain complex subjects clearly and produce people-centered stories for broad audiences.
• Proficient in digital-first reporting and comfortable contributing to video and social media coverage.
• Able to identify distinctive story ideas, pursue multiple reporting threads and manage competing assignments in a fast-paced news environment.
• A collaborative colleague who can work effectively with journalists across formats, locations and areas of expertise.
• Knowledgeable about major professional and college sports, with a strong interest in Seattle’s sports landscape.
• Committed to AP’s standards for accuracy, integrity, objectivity and inclusive coverage.
• Able and willing to work nights, weekends and holidays as coverage requires and to travel for assignments.
• Authorization to work in the U.S. or the ability to obtain permission to do so.

What will set you apart:

• An established network of sources within the NFL or Seattle sports community.
• Demonstrated success breaking news about a major professional sports franchise, particularly an NFL team.
• Experience using court records, public records and other documents to report on legal, financial or organizational developments.
• Experience creating or contributing to visual, audio, interactive or social-first storytelling.
• Familiarity with audience data and emerging platforms and an ability to use those insights to strengthen coverage and reach.

We will consider strong candidates who do not meet every listed qualification. You may use a cover letter to describe the unique qualifications you would bring to this role.

Why join us:

• A mission-driven, inclusive environment focused on both individual and collective success. 
• Opportunities for professional development to help you reach your career goals. 
• Access to tools, mentorship, and resources tailored to elevate your proficiency and contributions. 

Salary & Benefits:

This position is covered by The Associated Press’ contract with the News Media Guild, which provides for an annual salary for Class A staff of between $53,477 and $85,214 based on location and years of professional experience. Additional compensation is negotiable based on a job candidate’s skills, qualifications and market location. Employees are eligible to participate, according to the terms of the official plan documents, in a 401(k) plan and employer-sponsored health insurance plan and are eligible for paid time off and holidays in accordance with AP policy.

The Associated Press offers comprehensive benefits, which include:

• Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage
• Retirement benefits
• Company paid life insurance
• Paid vacation and sick days
• Paid parental leave for any new parent
• Mental well-being resources

Application deadline is September 23, at 11:59p.m. ET.

AP seeks to build an inclusive organization grounded in respect for differences. We support all aspects of diversity and provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a veteran, or other characteristic protected by law.

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