Job Description

Location: FL-Orlando-South

Job Title: Assignment Editor - WFTV Orlando

Position Overview

WFTV Channel 9, the leading news station in Central Florida, is seeking a highly motivated, organized, and experienced Assignment Editor to join our dynamic news team. The Assignment Editor plays a critical role in the daily newsgathering process, responsible for identifying, assigning, and coordinating news coverage for all platforms (broadcast, digital, social). This position requires a sharp news judgment, excellent communication skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Monitor all available news sources, including police scanners, social media, wire services, and internal tips, to identify breaking news and developing stories.
• Work closely with news managers, producers, and reporters to determine daily news priorities and assignments.
• Dispatch and coordinate news crews (reporters, photographers, live truck operators) efficiently and effectively to cover assigned stories.
• Manage and update the newsroom's assignment desk system, ensuring all story information, contacts, and assignments are accurate and current.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with local law enforcement, fire departments, government agencies, and community contacts.
• Conduct preliminary research for stories, including fact-checking and gathering background information.
• Anticipate logistical needs for news coverage, including access, parking, and equipment.
• Field incoming calls and emails from the public, assessing their news value and directing them appropriately.
• Maintain awareness of ongoing stories and potential follow-ups.
• Assist in managing the newsroom's calendar of events and future planning.
• Ensure compliance with journalistic ethics and legal standards.
• May be required to work various shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as news demands.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a newsroom assignment desk or similar newsgathering role, preferably in a top 50 market.
• Strong understanding of local, national, and international news.
• Exceptional news judgment and the ability to quickly assess the importance and impact of events.
• Proficiency in newsroom computer systems, wire services (e.g., AP), and social media monitoring tools.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize effectively under pressure.
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and independently when necessary.
• Knowledge of Central Florida geography and communities is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with iNews or similar newsroom content management systems.
• Familiarity with digital news platforms and social media best practices for news dissemination.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) skills are a plus.

About Cox Media Group
CMG Media Corporation (d/b/a Cox Media Group) is an industry-leading media company with unparalleled brands, award-winning content, and exceptional team members. CMG provides valuable local and national journalism and entertainment content to the people and communities it serves. The company's businesses encompass 14 high-quality, market-leading television brands in 9 markets; 49 top-performing radio stations delivering multiple genres of content in 10 markets; and numerous streaming and digital platforms. CMG's TV portfolio includes multiple primary affiliates of ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, Telemundo and MyNetworkTV, as well as several valuable news and independent stations. For more information about CMG, visit 

Req #: 1795 #LI-Onsite

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