Senior Writer, Digital, CBC Radio (english Services) (hybrid)

Senior Writer, Digital, CBC Radio (English Services)

At CBC/Radio-Canada, we create content that informs, entertains and connects Canadians on multiple platforms. Our successes and accomplishments are driven by embodying and upholding values, which include creativity, integrity, inclusiveness and relevance. Do you think you have the ability and drive to keep up with this exciting, ever-changing industry? Whether it be in front of the camera, on air, online or behind the scenes, you would be joining a team that thrives on making connections and telling stories that are important to Canadians.

The CBC News Talk Radio Digital team is seeking a Senior Writer to write and edit digital text stories that support our national news and current affairs radio programs. You are an experienced digital journalist who can turn around timely or breaking stories on a wide variety of topics, and also craft longer, complex features, including data-based stories on science and health, sensitive human interest features and profiles. You have a proven track record of editing the work of others, which is a significant part of the job. You're a master of turning amazing audio content into compelling written stories, taking responsibility for gathering and production as well as the equally important tasks of packaging and distribution, and can use this story-centred approach to grow reach and engagement with our priority 30-49 audience. You're responsible for researching, reporting and writing stories that reflect, and add value to, content from network radio programs, documentaries and podcasts. These include, but are not limited to White Coat Black Art/The Dose, The Current, The Sunday Magazine, Cost of Living and Unreserved, as assigned by the Senior Producer. You know how to structure a story, set the appropriate tone, and ask the critical question of what voices and elements are missing and how to fill in the gaps, creating unique content that differentiates us from the rest of CBC and our competitors.

Your knowledge of the news and issues of the day informs how you pitch ideas and treatments in the context of department goals and overall digital strategy. You can work collaboratively with some of the most experienced journalists in the business, as well as guide new writers. You have uncompromising attention to detail and best practices in accordance with the CBC's Journalistic Standards and Practices. You must be proficient in leveraging visual storytelling tools and techniques, and adapting to evolving technologies. You are on top of social media trends and know how to present our content in an authentic way to new audiences on mobile web, apps, social and streaming platforms. You have a deep appreciation for different perspectives, opinions and experiences, which you showcase in your editorial choices and the relationships you build with the Canadian communities whose stories we tell. You care about the people you work with, and promote the values of diversity and an inclusive and respectful work culture.

This is a permanent, full-time position, based anywhere in Canada. This position is telework eligible.

Job Responsibilities

• Write web stories, both original and based on the work of others, including researching, reporting, interviewing, writing, fact checking and packaging.
• Copy edit the work of multiple writers and producers, often based on broadcast or podcast audio, to a high standard based on established guidelines.
• Conceive, pitch and develop online treatments in co-ordination with radio programs and other content creators.
• Participate in the ongoing development and execution of department objectives.
• Evaluate and give regular feedback and coaching on writing and presentation of digital content.
• Write headlines; select images, links, related multimedia; design story layout; and collaborate on social media strategies to optimize audience reach and engagement.
• Ensure proper copyright clearance of material used on all digital platforms, including social.
• Effectively use our internal CMS and other digital publishing platforms.
• Identify, develop and maintain contacts appropriate to the area of assignment, including at cbcnews.ca and other CBC verticals.

Skills and experience

• Five years of digital media experience, including daily writing assignments within a major digital news organization.
• Superior writing, editorial, copy editing and digital packaging skills.
• A university degree or equivalent.
• Working knowledge of CBC's Journalistic Standards and Practices.
• Working knowledge of CBC's Language Guide as well as Canadian Press style and CBC digital best practices.
• Understanding of stats and analytics platforms (Adobe Analytics, Chartbeat and others) and ability to make editorial decisions informed by data.
• An understanding of how digital content engages audiences beyond traditional broadcast.
• Ability to write in a clear, concise manner, and to adapt voice to each program's criteria, tone and objectives.
• Strong organizational skill with the ability to prioritize tasks.
• Fluency with social media platforms, including YouTube and TikTok.
• Ability to inspire and motivate others, coach and mentor writers.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing work patterns, processes and methods.
• Ability to work in a high-pressure environment and under tight deadlines.
• Creative problem-solver who is decisive but not inflexible. Independent and self-motivated, with stellar communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to plan ahead, while maintaining the ability to be topical and current.
• Knowledge of national affairs.
• Knowledge of creative digital storytelling techniques.
• An understanding of digital production and publishing tools.
• Knowledge of production demands of network radio programs.
• An understanding of the CBC, including the relationships between Network Talk radio and news, digital and regions.

Candidates may be subject to skills and knowledge testing.

We thank all applicants for their interest, but only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. As part of our recruitment process, candidates who advance to the next step will be asked to complete a background check. This includes: A mandatory Criminal record check. Other background checks may be conducted based on the operational requirements of the position.