Job Description
Job DescriptionSalary: $65,000-$75,000 annually
Baltimore Public Media (BPM), home to WYPR and WTMD, seeks a driven, accountability-minded journalist to lead our Maryland state government & politics beat, reporting to the news director. This flagship beat offers daily chances to break news and craft engaging enterprise stories for broadcast and digital. The ideal candidate can translate complex state laws and their impact on our listeners, with transparency and accountability as their north star. We are committed to journalism that centers on equity, elevates diverse voices, and reflects Marylands full spectrum of communities.
Key Responsibilities
Daily & Beat Coverage
- Report and produce timely spots, features, and digital pieces; appear live or taped on BPM programs.
- Pitch statewide stories to NPR and other national programs when appropriate.
- Cultivate source networks that represent Marylands racial, geographic, and socioeconomic diversity, ensuring inclusive coverage.
Legislative Session (January April)
- Cover and provide analysis of the annual 90-day session of the Maryland General Assembly in-person in Annapolis, including committee hearings, floor action, and negotiations.
- Be prepared to go live on BPM local programs with analysis and breaking news
Year-Round State Coverage
- Cover the Governors office, state agencies, and implementation of new laws.
- Cover the Maryland Board of Public Works throughout the year.
- Cover statewide elections, campaign finance, and ballot measures.
- Additional state government stories as assigned.
Collaboration & Engagement
- Work closely with digital, talk-show producers, and engagement teams to package content across platforms.
- Participate in community events and on-air panels to deepen BPMs political coverage and build trust with under-represented audiences.
Qualifications
Core Journalism Skills
- News Judgment Ability to identify what is newsworthy, timely, and relevant to the audience.
- Writing for Radio Crafting clear, concise, and conversational scripts that are suited for audio delivery.
- Research & Fact-Checking Diligently gathering accurate information from reliable sources.
- Interviewing Asking relevant, probing questions while listening actively and respectfully.
- Storytelling Structuring content for compelling narrative arcs with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
Technical & Production Skills
- Audio Editing Proficiency in digital audio editing tools like Adobe Audition, Pro Tools, or Hindenburg to edit sound cleanly and efficiently.
- Field Recording Capturing clean, high-quality sound (voice, ambient, interviews) using field equipment.
- Broadcast Delivery Comfortable and professional on-air voice, pacing, tone, and mic technique.
- Live Reporting Ability to deliver accurate information clearly under pressure
Background
- Education Bachelor's degree preferred
- Experience Knowledge of and experience in NPR system and public radio is a plus
- Transportation Must have a personal vehicle. Parking and mileage will be reimbursed
Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Baltimore Public Media believes our work is strongest when our team reflects the rich diversity of the communities we serve. We are committed to fostering a culture of equity and belonging in which every employee, volunteer, and partner feels valued, respected, and empowered. BPM is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates from historically underrepresented communitiesincluding but not limited to BIPOC, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, and veteransto apply.
About Baltimore Public Media
Baltimore Public Media (BPM) is home to WYPR 88.1 FM and WTMD 89.7 FM. Our mission is to enrich, engage, and inform our communities through trusted journalism, vibrant music discovery, and impactful storytelling.