At a Glance
- Tasks: Report live, create engaging content, and tell compelling stories across multiple platforms.
- Company: Join the BBC's dynamic Local Story Team in Southampton.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by sharing stories that matter to your community.
- Qualifications: Strong storytelling skills and experience in multi-platform journalism.
- Other info: Part of the BBC Extend programme, promoting diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 34500 £ per year.
Local Story Team Journalist – Southampton
CONTRACT TYPE: 12 month fixed‑term contract, full‑time
LOCATION: Southampton (office based)
PROPOSED SALARY RANGE: £27,000 – £34,500 depending on relevant skills, knowledge and experience.
This is a dynamic journalist role within BBC South News’ Local Story Team. You’ll report live from the scene or studio, produce engaging digital content, and create compelling stories across online, TV and radio platforms.
Key Responsibilities
- Respond swiftly to breaking news and develop stories.
- Report live on location and in the studio with confidence and clarity.
- Write sharp, accurate, and engaging stories for digital platforms.
- Film and create digital video content that brings stories to life.
- Pitch original ideas and treatments that reflect the communities we serve.
Essential Criteria
- Journalist with strong editorial judgement and a nose for a great story.
- Experience in multi‑platform journalism – online, radio, and TV.
- Creative storyteller who can think visually and write with flair.
- Team player who brings energy, ideas, and contacts to the newsroom.
- Flexibility to work a range of shifts, including occasional weekends.
- Strong editorial judgement and understanding of media law.
Desired but Not Required
- TV reporting experience.
- Radio bulletin news reading.
- Film editing skills.
Access & Extend Programme
This role is part of the BBC Extend programme for disabled people. If you identify as deaf, disabled, or neurodivergent, you are encouraged to apply. For adjustments or access requirements, contact extend@bbc.co.uk. Adjustments will be made in line with our BBC Access and Disability Service.
Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging
We welcome applications from individuals independent of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio‑economic background, religion or belief. The BBC is a disability‑confident employer and will provide reasonable adjustments for the interview process and role.
Employment Checks
Your application will be subject to standard BBC checks, including reference checks, eligibility to work, safeguarding and adverse media/social media checks. Offers are conditional on satisfactory outcomes.
Journalist (Southampton) - EXTEND employer: BBC Group and Public Services
Contact Detail:
BBC Group and Public Services Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Journalist (Southampton) - EXTEND
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the local scene! As a journalist, it’s crucial to understand the community you’ll be reporting on. Attend local events, engage with residents, and follow local news outlets to get a feel for what stories matter most.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your pitch! When you’re applying, think about how you can present your ideas in a compelling way. Prepare a few story pitches that reflect the interests of the Southampton community and showcase your creativity.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your multi-platform skills! Make sure to highlight any experience you have in online, radio, and TV journalism. Create a portfolio that includes samples of your work across different media to demonstrate your versatility.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Journalist (Southampton) - EXTEND
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Storytelling: When you're writing your application, let your love for storytelling shine through! Share examples of stories you've covered and how you brought them to life across different platforms. We want to see your flair for creativity!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to fit the role. Highlight your experience in multi-platform journalism and any specific skills that match the job description. This shows us you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in joining our team.
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate a well-structured application! Keep your writing sharp and to the point. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the role. Remember, clarity is key in journalism, so show us you can communicate effectively right from the start.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and you’ll be good to go!
How to prepare for a job interview at BBC Group and Public Services
✨Know Your Stories
Before the interview, brush up on recent local news stories in Southampton. Being able to discuss current events and how they relate to the community will show your passion for journalism and your understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Multi-Platform Skills
Prepare examples of your work across different media platforms. Whether it’s a digital article, a radio segment, or a video piece, having tangible examples ready to discuss will highlight your versatility as a journalist.
✨Pitch Original Ideas
Think of a few story ideas that reflect the local community and be ready to pitch them during the interview. This demonstrates your creativity and ability to generate engaging content that resonates with the audience.
✨Be Ready for Live Reporting Scenarios
Practice responding to hypothetical breaking news situations. The interviewers may ask how you would handle live reporting, so being prepared to think on your feet will showcase your confidence and clarity under pressure.