Radio Free Asia (RFA) is a private, Washington, DC-based, nonprofit corporation that provides accurate and timely news and information to Asian countries whose governments prohibit access to a free press. Delivered in nine Asian languages in addition to English, our journalism extends beyond radio to include web, video, mobile and e-books. RFA is currently seeking a talented, dynamic, and versatile journalist to report, write, and broadcast in English about the South China Sea. This position may be performed as either a DC-based hire or on a contract-basis from a location in Asia.
Responsibilities Include:
- Reporting and writing news, features, and analysis about the South China Sea in English for publication on the websites of RFA and its online affiliate, BenarNews, and their social media platforms.
- Using contacts among government and military officials, regional experts, and analysts both in the United States and Asia to break news on security issues related to territorial disputes in the South China Sea, diplomatic developments, and environmental issues.
- Covering relevant news conferences, official meetings, and think tank events.
- Writing stories accurately and under deadline, incorporating materials that may be reported by other RFA and BenarNews journalists covering Southeast Asia. Stories may be translated into other languages to serve other RFA and BenarNews audiences.
- Researching information online and from other relevant news sources and incorporating multimedia, as appropriate, into news reports and features.
- Using ship-tracking software and satellite imagery to report on developments in the South China Sea. Using those tools to aid visual presentation of stories.
- Working with graphics, social media, and video journalists at RFA and BenarNews to optimize visual presentation of stories and maximize impact on social media.
- Contributing to a weekly podcast published by RFA and BenarNews about the South China Sea and Southeast Asia.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- Demonstrated experience in print journalism required (at least three years full-time experience in a media company preferred); multimedia experience is a plus.
- Academic credentials (Bachelor's degree in journalism or related field from an accredited college or university preferred) or equivalent transferable skills showing ability to gather, produce, write, and present news and information clearly and objectively.
- Knowledge and understanding of the territorial and maritime disputes in the South China Sea, environmental issues there, and the current political, economic and social conditions in Southeast Asia.
- Demonstrated ability to exercise judgment and discretion in evaluating and presenting news.
- Ability to propose stories to an editor, work independently with minimal instruction, and execute assigned stories on deadline.
- Knowledge and experience in use of ship-tracking software and satellite imagery, or otherwise a demonstrated ability to learn and adapt to new technology for journalism.
- Strong computer skills and ability to edit photos with Adobe Photoshop. Ability to edit audio and video preferred.
- Spoken and written fluency in English language required. Ability to speak and read Mandarin or a Southeast Asian language preferred.
RFA is an equal opportunity employer committed to workforce diversity. RFA encourages all qualified individuals to apply. If hired, the candidate must provide proof of eligibility to work in the US as an employee of RFA. RFA reserves the right to reconsider or withdraw any offer of employment to any candidate whose authorization to work in the US as an employee of RFA, or extension of such authorization, would require RFA to file or support a petition or related documentation.
How to Apply:
Send résumé with cover letter via email to rfajobs@rfa.org, referencing “South China Sea Correspondent” in the subject line.
