Audio Staff Reporter

Reports to: Silhouette Section Editor

Hours: Approx 4 - 6 hours per week

***Please see the bottom of posting for special instruction

The Silhouette is McMaster University’s student-run newspaper. The Sil has been in publication for over 80 years, first hitting the newsstands in the fall of 1930. The Sil employs an Editor-in-Chief and 18 undergraduate students part-time on its Editorial Board and welcomes the contributions of other students and community members throughout the year.

This posting closes September 30 at 11:59pm, however, we will begin reviewing candidates immediately.

The Audio Staff Reporter is expected to produce one audio segment per week during The Silhouette’s publication schedule. Reporters will primarily contribute to the Frequency show associated with the section for which they were hired: News, Opinion, Arts & Culture, or Sports. The Reporter is responsible for creating engaging, accurate, and student-focused audio journalism. This includes conducting interviews, producing reported features, participating in panel discussions, and contributing to recurring show segments. Audio Staff Reporters collaborate with their Section’s Associate Editor and may coordinate with editorial staff to support cross-platform storytelling initiatives.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Research and Assignment Function

• Search for audio story opportunities at McMaster and in Hamilton by monitoring campus developments, events, and community issues

• Pitch segment ideas to the Section’s Associate Editor for approval

• Conduct background research and pre-interviews to ensure informed and accurate reporting

• Maintain communication with the Associate Editor to ensure content is timely and relevant

Audio Production Function

• Produce one audio segment per week (interview, feature, or reported piece) for the assigned Frequency show

• Conduct and record interviews using approved recording equipment

• Participate in show discussions or recurring segments as assigned

• Submit recorded content in a timely fashion

Editing Function

• Ensure segments are accurate, coherent, balanced, and ethically sound

• Verify facts prior to recording and broadcast

• Incorporate edits and feedback in a timely manner
  

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong verbal communication skills and ability to speak clearly and confidently on-air

• Ability to conduct engaging, conversational interviews

• Assertive and professional communication when reaching out to contacts

• Personal skills to work with colleagues and the public

• Time management and organizational skills

• Basic audio recording knowledge (training provided)

• Interviewing and analytical skills

• Rudimentary knowledge of Canadian media law and broadcast standards is an asset

• Ensure audio quality, clarity, and professionalism consistent with Silhouette and CFMU standards

• Adhere to Silhouette policies, CFMU broadcasting standards, Canadian media law, and libel guidelines

Effort & Responsibility

• Attention to detail to maintain factual accuracy and balance

• Persistence in securing interviews and relevant sources

• Ability to approach subjects as a layperson to ensure clarity for listeners

• Effort required to maintain consistency of weekly production and deadlines

• Responsible adherence to CFMU Radio Inc. Operating Policy – The Silhouette

Working Conditions

• Silhouette office and/or CFMU studio environment

• On-location interviews may be required around McMaster campus

• Exposure to various weather conditions

• Time demands may exceed stated hours of work

Training and Experience

• Journalism, broadcasting, podcasting, or related experience preferred (previous Silhouette or CFMU experience an asset

• Audio recording and editing training will be provided

• Silhouette training over the summer

Equipment

• Personal computer required for research and scripting

• Studio and portable recording equipment provided

• Editing software access through Silhouette/CFMU

****In addition to your resume, please submit the following assignment as per the instructions:

Assignment

For a full list of duties and responsibilities, please download the full job description.