Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: N0017 / Technical Journalist
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Exempt
Grade: 11

This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.

The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.

Summary

Under indirect supervision, initiates independent research, investigation, and story development and writes and prepares copy for a subsciption-funded national newsletter covering a range of associated technical topics, and requiring significant specialized knowledge and understanding of the field. Establishes nature and focus of individual articles to be published, and participates in determination of the general direction and scope of the newsletter within the parameters described by its objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Plans, organizes, and integrates article sets for national/international publication in print and/or electronic newsletter format; determines the subject matter, format, and focus of individual articles to be published.
  2. Plans story concepts and performs independent research and investigation in the development of story lines for newsletter articles.
  3. Analyzes researched information for quality of reporting, newsworthiness, and relevance to subject matter; interprets and synthesises information into articles as appropriate.
  4. Creates, writes, edits, and prepares copy on a range of subject matters relevant to the general direction of the program.
  5. Plans layout of work, arranging sequence of topics and placement of graphics as applicable.
  6. Proofreads all copy and makes corrections as necessary prior to publication; organizes and indexes all articles and materials, and executes electronic publication procedures.
  7. Participates in decision-making regarding the general direction, focus, scope, and format of the newsletter.
  8. May perform on-site research and/or investigations in support of specific story lines.
  9. Keeps abreast of issues and trends within the specific field of journalistic expertise.
  10. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree; at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
  • Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

  • Knowledge and understanding of electronic journalism and associated applications and programs.
  • Ability to create, plan, and develop story lines.
  • Knowledge of journalistic research and investigation principles and techniques.
  • Knowledge and understanding of the underlying issues and concerns associated with the articles being produced.
  • Ability to make administrative/procedural decisions and judgments.
  • Analytical skills.
  • Journalistic writing and editorial skills.
  • Skill in developing design and layout of materials to be published.
  • Knowledge of electronic publication procedures and techniques.
  • Ability to accurately determine newsworthiness.
  • Knowledge of current and emerging trends and issues within area of journalistic expertise.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

  • No or very limited physical effort required.
  • No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
  • Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.

The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.

Revised Date: 03/20/2017