Newspaper Reporter

About the Role

Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino is seeking a Newspaper Reporter responsible for crafting original and culturally respectful journalism aimed at the Mescalero Apache Tribal Newspaper’s community. Reporting to the Casino Advertising Marketing Manager, this role involves generating story concepts, covering specific beats, and meeting deadlines for the newspaper’s twice-monthly printed editions, while ensuring adherence to Indigenous journalism standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, report, write, and submit articles for a bi-monthly newspaper consisting of eight pages (14×22 inches, six columns).
• Manage specific coverage areas such as tribal governance, education, culture and language, health, youth and elders, public safety, and economic growth.
• Conduct interviews, collect documents and data, and attend public and tribal meetings along with community events as assigned.
• Capture basic photographs with captions and collaborate with the Administrative & Layout Coordinator to manage artwork and page layout.
• Perform thorough fact-checking, adhere to AP Style guidelines and IMG branding, and correct any inaccuracies without delay.
• Maintain tools including an editorial calendar, source lists, contact logs, and release records, all while respecting privacy and cultural standards.
• Submit brief community notes and assist with web and social media postings as phase two of responsibilities.
• Demonstrate an active interest in utilizing new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to enhance marketing operations.
• Undertake additional duties as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, or equivalent professional experience within a newsroom setting.
• Portfolio showcasing clear, engaging writing, accuracy, and active community involvement.
• Strong skills with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace, familiarity with AP Style, and comfort using basic photography and audio equipment.
• Cultural competence and understanding of the Native American Journalists Association (NAJA) and Indigenous Journalists Association (IJA) guidelines for respectful Indian Country reporting or a willingness to learn these standards.
• Excellent organizational and communication abilities with the capability to manage several deadlines simultaneously.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license; availability to work some evenings and weekends for events and meetings.
• Minimum age of 21 with ability to acquire or maintain a gaming license if mandated by job location.
• Preferred bilingual skills in English and Spanish or Apache languages; preference given to Mescalero Apache Tribal members and candidates with bicultural experience.

Physical Demands

• Frequent sitting, keyboarding, and telephone use; periodic standing and walking during events and meetings.
• Occasional lifting/moving items up to 25 pounds such as boxes, newspapers, or equipment.
• Driving to various locations on or off the reservation to conduct interviews and gather news coverage.

Work Environment

• Combination of office and on-site field reporting with regular interaction with the public.
• Variable noise levels including public gatherings and outdoor conditions.
• Potential incidental exposure to second-hand smoke in designated on-property zones.