Reporter

About This Role

Reporting for The Hamilton Spectator involves producing compelling and relevant local journalism for readers across digital and print platforms. This role suits a self-starter with solid news judgment and a passion for local news, working in a hybrid environment that includes community, office, and home-based work.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate with the local news editor to consistently produce interesting and local newsworthy stories told in traditional and non-traditional ways
• Produce high-quality, trustworthy journalism using excellent reporting and researching skills, including data analysis and AI where ethically applicable
• Produce engaging multimedia content for website and social media outlets, including video and audio posts
• Travel throughout the community to capture events and information outside of structured work hours including evenings and weekends
• Regularly pitch interesting and original story ideas relevant to the Hamilton community

Requirements

• Diploma or degree in journalism or in a related field
• Self-starter who exercises solid news judgment
• Competent in using social media
• Strong verbal and written communication skills (Canadian Press Style)
• Effective organizational skills, ability to manage time and prioritize tasks appropriately
• Ability to excel in a fast-paced, deadline driven, digital first and demanding environment
• Knowledge of media law
• Experience filing FOIs and data journalism
• Team-oriented individual who can build professional relationships with colleagues
• Must have access to a reliable vehicle and valid driver's license

Nice to have:

• Experience with graphics, mapping, photography and video

Important Details

• Contract: unionized position - Unifor Local 87-M
• Application deadline: November 2, 2026

Application Process

• Upload a single PDF to our online portal containing:
• Two original story pitches tailored to our audience. Each pitch must have a maximum 150-word summary of the angle and at least two sources to be interviewed. Ensure the pitches conform to Canadian Press (CP) Style.
• Resume.
• Three published examples of hard news or feature reporting journalism:
• Links must be accessible (no paywalls).
• Clips from campus newspapers or independent/community outlets are welcome but blog posts, opinion pieces or academic essays are not.
• Applications should demonstrate the energy and passion for local news that makes you a good fit for The Hamilton Spectator.