Job Description

Video Reporter/Producer

Democracy Docket is the leading digital news platform dedicated to information, analysis and opinion about voting rights and elections in the courts. Founded in 2020 by Democratic voting rights attorney Marc Elias, Democracy Docket is a reliable source of news that delivers detailed analysis and expert commentary on voting rights and election litigation and policy that will shape our elections and democratic institutions for years to come. With a comprehensive database of over 1,000 cases, Democracy Docket tracks and reports on the latest election and voting-related litigation, providing filings, in-depth analysis and up-to-date developments about court proceedings. We offer free daily and weekly newsletters to our over 300,000 subscribers as well as a premium membership with exclusive content. Our social media presence continues to grow with over 1 million total followers across our channels, including 250,000+ YouTube subscribers. By providing our readers with breaking news updates, long-form analysis pieces and op-eds from elected officials, legal experts and voting rights activists, Democracy Docket is committed to helping people better understand the greatest challenges facing voters and our democracy.

Job Overview

Democracy Docket is seeking a creative and mission-driven Video Reporter/Producer to lead the development of original video content that informs, engages, and expands our audience of over one million across platforms. This role is a key part of our growing video strategy and will combine on-camera reporting with behind-the-scenes production. You'll co-host regular news updates with our Founder and develop original video series for our YouTube channel and other platforms. Your work will help shape Democracy Docket's voice in the video spacebringing clarity and urgency to stories about democracy, voting rights, and the courts. The ideal candidate is passionate about using video to make complex issues accessible and compelling. You'll work closely with our editorial and social teamsand directly with our Founderto pitch, script, film, and edit timely, informative content that drives impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, shoot and edit original video content with strong visual storytelling elements based on Democracy Docket's original reporting covering voting, elections and democracy.
• Develop and serve as an on-camera host for news-style segments and video explainers on Democracy Docket's YouTube channel based on written editorial reporting. (1-3 videos per week).
• Produce and co-host regular YouTube episodes with Democracy Docket's Founder (1-3 videos per week) that highlight breaking news and provide commentary.
• Respond to breaking news and produce video stories in collaboration with other reporters and researchers
• Shoot and/or adapt video content for vertical platforms, including Instagram Reels, TikTok and YouTube Shorts.
• Responsible for the start-to-finish production of these videos, including pitching ideas, outlining and prep work, editing and posting.
• Utilize video performance metrics and data to guide strategy and improve audience engagement.
• Work closely with the social media team on topic selection, optimization and distribution strategy.
• Collaborate with the news division on editorial direction to ensure accuracy and consistency in tone and messaging.

Required Qualifications

• Proven experience in video production for platforms like YouTube, TikTok or Instagram, including scriptwriting, filming, and editing.
• Comfortable and confident on-camera presence.
• Exceptional storytelling abilities and a talent for breaking down complex legal and political topics into easily digestible content.
• Familiar with the political landscape, voting rights, elections and the judicial system. A strong interest in democracy and voting is a must.
• Strong editing skills using tools such as Adobe Premiere or other video editing software.
• A self-starter with strong creative ideas, a strong understanding of platform-specific formats and best practices, and a desire to innovate and experiment.
• On-camera reporting experience required
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, including communicating plans, brainstorming and receiving feedback.

Education and Experience

• At least 3 years of experience creating video content for platforms like YouTube, TikTok or Instagram (or podcast), including writing scripts, filming and editing.
• Bachelor's Degree required.

Work Environment

This is a full-time role based out of either our Washington, D.C. or Jersey City, New Jersey office. We currently offer a hybrid schedule: Monday and Friday are remote, and Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday are in-office days.

To apply - please submit a portfolio showcasing your prior video journalism work. Please include:

• At least 2 video pieces that demonstrate your skills in reporting, producing and/or editing.
• Please provide direct links when possible.

Salary Range: $75,000-$80,000

Democracy Docket is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

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