Chief Photographer

This position manages a team of Photojournalists and Editors and is responsible for coordinating and purchasing technical resources, equipment, and vehicles essential to news coverage. Job ResponsibilitiesSupervise, coach, and mentor a team of Photojournalists, Multimedia Journalists, and Editors, providing guidance on shooting techniques, equipment usage, and storytelling through visuals.Responsible for all areas of on-air visual presentation.Oversee the maintenance, distribution, and functionality of all photography, video, and editing equipment, including cameras, drones, and vehicles.Develop and manage schedules for the Photojournalist and Editor team, ensuring proper coverage for breaking news and planned assignments across the state.Conduct regular training sessions for the Photojournalists and Editors on best practices, including new equipment, safety protocols, and advanced storytelling techniques.Work closely with the newsroom, assignment desk, and reporters to plan and execute news stories, ensuring seamless coordination between field crews and the production team.Enforce safety protocols for fieldwork, especially during live coverage of severe weather, high-risk events, or hazardous environments.Participate in communication with vendors to secure the latest technology to enhance news coverage.Ensure consistency in the quality of video content, reviewing footage for storytelling, technical excellence, and journalistic integrity.Assist in the planning and execution of special news projects or events, coordinating resources for extended coverage, such as elections or major state events.Work alongside newsroom managers to maintain and improve newsroom operations, focusing on both efficiency and innovation.Serve as the point person for the upkeep, maintenance of all news department vehicles, ensuring they are properly equipped for news coverage.Function as staff photojournalist as needed.Perform other job-related duties as assigned, including driving an automobile for company business.Job ScheduleThis is a full-time position primarily working 40 hours per week. You may also be called upon at times to fill in other hours and days of the week to help cover vacations, illnesses, breaking news, severe weather, or special projects/events. Related experience will be evaluated and may be substituted as years of education.Minimum 5-8 years of experience in a television newsroom as a Photographer in a small to medium market.Proven experience as a senior-level photojournalist with demonstrated leadership skills. Prior supervisory experience is preferred.In-depth knowledge of news photography, video production, editing, and live broadcast technology.Strong understanding of journalistic ethics and visual storytelling.Prior experience managing staff, equipment, and logistics in a fast-paced news environment preferred.Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks under deadline pressure.Experience with drone operations is a plus.Technical knowledge of broadcast production equipment.Ability to direct and gain the cooperation of others with strong organizational and interpersonal skills.Basic understanding of automotive maintenance to effectively oversee routine vehicle upkeep and to ensure timely repairs as needed.Must have, or be able to obtain, a valid Oklahoma driver’s license and have a driving record acceptable to the company.Ability to perform other job-related duties as assigned.Physical and Mental RequirementsAbility to verbally communicate in English.Ability to read computer monitor information (words and data).Ability to hear detailed spoken word.Ability to remain sedentary and to travel to work location.Ability to perform manual dexterity tasks with hands, fingers.Ability to analyze data, concentrate, reason, and write.Ability to perform under emotional stress.Ability to lift 50 pounds unaided.Ability to work rotating shifts and be on 24-hour call.Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.