Video Journalist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of digital storytelling, the spotlight on video journalists has never been brighter.

Media evolves rapidly, and with each development, the demand for creative minds who can capture, narrate, and share our stories through visual medium intensifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a video journalist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the art of visual storytelling,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable video journalist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Video Journalist Duties and Responsibilities

Video Journalists are responsible for researching, planning, shooting and editing news stories.

They often work independently, covering a wide range of topics, from breaking news stories to feature stories.

Video Journalists have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Research and investigate potential news stories or events
• Plan and coordinate news gathering process
• Shoot and edit videos to tell compelling news stories
• Conduct on-camera interviews with subjects
• Write scripts for news reports and ensure they meet the station’s standards
• Use editing software to piece together film segments
• Ensure the accuracy of information and facts in the story
• Collaborate with news team to generate story ideas
• Present live reports from the field
• Follow current events and developments to stay up-to-date

 

Video Journalist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated video journalist to produce, film, and edit stories for our news platform.

Responsibilities include gathering video content, editing news stories, collaborating with newsroom team members, and staying up-to-date with all current events.

Our ideal candidates are well-versed in digital technology and editing software packages.

They are also highly adaptable and able to report on various types of news stories in a quick and efficient manner.

Ultimately, the role of the video journalist is to bring sight and sound together to tell a cohesive and intriguing story that will inform and engage our audience.

 

Responsibilities

• Generate, research and pitch story ideas
• Film, report, and edit video stories
• Collaborate with news producers and staff
• Stay up-to-date with all relevant news and events
• Ensure all content meets company standards for journalistic integrity and production quality
• Maintain equipment and troubleshoot technical issues
• Conduct interviews in the field or studio
• Deliver live reports from the field or studio
• Work both independently and as part of a team

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a video journalist or reporter
• Experience with video editing software, like Adobe Premiere Pro
• Ability to shoot high-quality video and stills
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Strong news judgment and ethical decision-making skills
• BSc degree in Journalism, Broadcasting or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Video Journalist
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Frequent travel may be required for news coverage.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the News Director or Executive Producer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a link to your portfolio or reel to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Video Journalist Do?

Video Journalists, often known as VJs, work in the broadcasting industry, producing video content for television, online news platforms, and social media channels.

Their primary responsibility is to create visual and audio content to convey news stories to a wider audience.

This involves researching, filming, and editing video content, often acting as a one-person crew.

They conduct interviews, narrate stories, and present live reports on air.

In addition to that, they also write news scripts, headlines, and summaries to accompany their video content.

They work closely with news editors and producers to ensure their content fits within programming schedules and meets editorial standards.

Video Journalists are also responsible for keeping up with the latest news events and often have to quickly respond to breaking news, sometimes working in challenging or rapidly changing environments.

They may also be required to use digital and social media tools to engage with viewers and further disseminate their content.

Due to the nature of their role, Video Journalists need to be versatile and adaptable, often working irregular hours and traveling extensively to cover stories.

 

Video Journalist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient video journalist should possess a range of technical and soft skills, as well as industry knowledge.

This includes:

• Strong storytelling skills to create compelling news stories that resonate with the audience.
• Technical proficiency with video cameras, lighting equipment, microphones, and editing software to capture high-quality visuals and audio.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to script and narrate stories, conduct interviews, and present reports.
• Research and analytical skills to investigate stories, verify information, and accurately represent the facts.
• Creative thinking and visualisation skills to present stories in an engaging and appealing way.
• Interpersonal skills to work effectively with a team of producers, camera crew, and other journalists, as well as to interact with interviewees and sources.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines, often while juggling multiple stories at once.
• Awareness of media law and ethical guidelines in journalism to ensure responsible reporting.

 

Video Journalist Experience Requirements

Video Journalists typically start their careers with a degree in journalism, communication, or a related field.

As a part of their coursework, they often gain hands-on experience in video reporting and editing.

Internships or part-time roles at news stations, online media outlets, or production companies also provide valuable experience.

Here, aspiring Video Journalists can learn how to operate cameras, use editing software, conduct interviews, and produce news stories.

A successful Video Journalist needs to know how to write, report, shoot and edit their own stories, which usually takes 1 to 2 years of experience to develop these skills.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of storytelling and visual communication, and might have covered a range of topics from politics to sports.

They may be ready to take on roles with greater editorial control, such as Senior Video Journalist or Video Editor.

Video Journalists with more than 5 years of experience often have management experience, overseeing a team of junior video journalists, coordinating with the newsroom, and developing video content strategies.

They may be ready for roles such as Chief Video Journalist or Video Production Manager.

 

Video Journalist Education and Training Requirements

A Video Journalist typically requires a bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or a related field.

Their coursework should include video production, multimedia storytelling, video editing, and broadcast journalism.

This will equip them with knowledge on the latest technologies and techniques used in capturing and editing footage, and narrating stories.

Some positions may require a video journalist to have a master’s degree in journalism or a similar discipline, especially for those seeking leadership or specialized roles.

Practical experience is also important for a video journalist.

This can be gained from internships, campus media involvement, or by creating a personal portfolio of work.

Additionally, familiarity with digital cameras, video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, and graphic design tools is often necessary.

Certification courses in video production and editing, digital storytelling, or multimedia journalism can also be beneficial to enhance their skills and improve their career prospects.

An understanding of social media and digital platforms for news dissemination is also important in this field.

Besides these technical skills, a video journalist must also have strong storytelling, reporting, and communication skills.

 

Video Journalist Salary Expectations

A Video Journalist earns an average salary of $46,270 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings may fluctuate based on the journalist’s experience, location, and the company for which they work.

 

Video Journalist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a video journalist need?

Video journalists need to have a wide range of skills.

They should be adept at operating various types of video equipment, from cameras to editing software.

They must have excellent communication and storytelling skills, as they need to articulate complex stories visually and verbally.

Additionally, they should have good time management skills, enabling them to meet tight deadlines, and a knack for research, which they can use to uncover unique story angles.

 

Do video journalists need a degree?

While a degree isn’t always necessary, having a bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or a related field can be beneficial.

The most important thing for a video journalist is to have a robust portfolio that showcases their ability to tell compelling stories through video.

However, a degree can provide a structured environment for honing skills and obtaining knowledge about the media industry.

 

What should you look for in a video journalist resume?

You should look for a strong portfolio showcasing the applicant’s ability to capture and edit video footage, write compelling scripts, and present stories in a visually engaging way.

Also, look for their proficiency in video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.

Previous experience working in a newsroom or similar fast-paced environment can be a strong indicator of their ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

 

What qualities make a good video journalist?

A good video journalist is curious, creative, and resilient.

They should have a passion for storytelling and an eye for detail, to ensure that their videos are engaging and accurate.

Good video journalists are also adaptable, as they often need to cover stories in a variety of environments and circumstances.

They should also be comfortable working independently, as video journalists often work solo to shoot, edit, and produce their pieces.

 

Is it difficult to hire video journalists?

The challenge in hiring video journalists often lies in finding candidates who possess the right mix of technical skills and storytelling acumen.

As video journalism is a highly specialized field, it can be difficult to find candidates with the right level of experience and proficiency in video production and journalism.

Offering competitive compensation and opportunities for growth and creativity in their role can help attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shone the spotlight on what it really means to be a video journalist.

Intriguing, isn’t it?

It’s not just about filming and editing.

It’s about weaving compelling narratives, one frame at a time.

Equipped with our comprehensive video journalist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Unleash your full potential with our job description generator. It’s your roadmap to crafting meticulous listings or tailoring your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every frame of a video tells a part of a larger story.

Let’s share those stories. Together.

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