Staff Writer at Japanese American Community Newspaper

Ten-year-old nonprofit ethnic community newspaper with a 120-year historic legacy of community leadership through media is seeking a dedicated, hard-working individual to write about community news and issues.

Job Description:

The staff writer position is multifaceted, covering a variety of community news, breaking news and feature stories for a bi-weekly nonprofit ethnic community newspaper based in San Francisco’s Japantown. The position is budgeted for 32 hours per week, with full medical, dental and vision premiums paid after a three-month probationary period.

Candidate should possess the following qualities and qualifications:

–       B.A. in journalism or equivalent

–       Strong writing, editing and grammar capability with attention to detail

–       Strong interviewing skills

–       Ability to work efficiently under pressure and under deadlines

–       Background in issues pertaining to Japanese American and Asian American communities

–       Photography skills

–       Background in Adobe InDesign and Photoshop preferred

–       Japanese language skills a plus

–       A natural curiosity

–       Multimedia skills (video) a plus

Responsibilities:

–       Find and write compelling articles throughout a variety of genres

–       Write both breaking news and feature stories

–       Be available to work on nights and weekends as needed, covering community events and issues

–       Take photos when necessary

–       Do page layout when necessary

Candidate should also provide writing samples

About the Organization:

With the impending closure of the historic Nichi Bei Times in September of 2009 — the oldest Japanese American community newspaper in Northern California — some Nichi Bei Times staff and contributing writers, media professionals and community leaders formed the Nichi Bei Foundation to launch the first nonprofit ethnic newspaper of its kind in the country, the Nichi Bei Weekly. 

This pioneering nonprofit organization has launched a Digital Edition, educational programs such as a Films of Remembrance series and pilgrimages to the historic former Angel Island Immigration Station and Wakamatsu Tea and Silk Farm Colony sites, as well as community events such as the Northern California Soy and Tofu Festival designed to help fulfill its mission of keeping the Japanese American and Asian American community connected, informed and empowered.

More info on the organization: 

www.nichibei.org/about/nichibeifoundation or www.nichibei.org

Salary: depending on experience

Please send resume and cover letter to jobs@nichibeifoundation.org. References required.