Chief Photographer
Position: Chief Photographer
Station: WJRT
Department: News
ABOUT STATION:
For more than 60 years, ABC12 has been part of the Mid-Michigan community. Being called a leader in the industry is a responsibility and commitment we take seriously. If you are looking for an opportunity to make a change or challenge your skills, the award-winning team of ABC12 could be the perfect home for you too.
JOB SUMMARY:
WJRT is seeking an experienced News Photographer that is looking to make the jump into leading a video/photojournalism team. As Chief Photographer at ABC-12, you’ll mentor and coach a talented team of Photographers and MMJs, while also contributing your own creative skills to bring stories to life. You’ll report directly to the News Director.
You must have the ability to act professionally and maintain control in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment; be accustomed to changing gears on constant breaking news, updating news, and continued coverage for our viewers.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Oversee, mentor, and evaluate a team of MMJs (Multi-Media Journalists) and Photographers; training programs and workshops to enhance skills in shooting, editing, storytelling, and newsgathering.
- Regularly review broadcasts, stories, and digital content for quality, consistency, and alignment with editorial standards; advise and guide staff to improve visual storytelling.
- Manage and maintain all news‐gathering equipment, cameras, support gear, live transmission tools (e.g. LiveU).
- Shoot, edit, and produce Voice Overs (VOs), Voice Over Sound on Tape (VOSOTs), and full packages for both broadcast and digital consumption, with accuracy, clarity, and journalistic integrity.
- Collaborate closely with reporters, producers, and content producers to plan shoots, conceptualize stories, and execute creative vision using both video and natural sound.
- Oversee the video library and assist in digitization and archiving of past content to ensure accessibility and compliance with station standards.
- Plan and lead quarterly meetings for photography staff including performance reviews, workflow improvements, and new technology training.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- A bachelor’s degree in journalism, broadcasting, communications or a related field, or equivalent professional experience. (Many similar roles require university‐level credentials.)
- Minimum 3 years’ experience in television broadcasting as a videographer/photographer/editor; at least 2 years in a leadership role.
- Demonstrated proficiency in news videography and editing under tight deadlines; skilled in Edius, or comparable editing software; familiarity with LiveU technology.
- Strong visual storytelling skills; ability to produce high‐impact content with sound, video, voice over, package structure.
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record; ability to operate news units.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds of equipment when necessary.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written; strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Flexibility to work non‐standard hours (nights, weekends, holidays) in response to news events.
- Willingness to secure a drone pilot’s license if not already certified, and to lead or support drone operations and training within the team.
- Excellent communication skills, remaining calm under pressure
- Demonstrate solid news judgment.
- This position will be based in our Flint newsroom.
- Must know how to edit video
- Must be available to work holidays and shifts that include nights, weekends, and overnights, and flexible with schedule to be available during breaking news.
- Must be willing to reside in the DMA
This is a full-time position offering competitive salaries with a competitive benefit package that includes medical/dental/vision plans.
The hours, shifts, and responsibilities are flexible and are subject to change at the News Director’s discretion. Shifts may include mornings, afternoons, nights, weekends and holidays depending on business needs.
Involvement in station initiatives and station events is necessary.
Pre-employment and random drug testing, successful completion of pre-employment background checks, and MVR checks are conditions of employment. You must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and have a good driving record.
If offered a position, you must produce legally required documentation demonstrating your eligibility to work in the United States before you can begin employment.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
When applying, you must include:
- A link to your online demo reel. NOTE: Applications without demo reels links will not be considered.
- A detailed summary including leadership and supervisory experience.
- References that can speak to your technical skills, storytelling, and management capabilities.
Please apply by visiting https://www.abc12.com/. Click on Careers and apply.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
WJRT provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, WJRT complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
WJRT expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of WJRT’s employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.