TEGNA’s Producer-in-Residence (PIR) program is redefining what it means to be a journalist in a live streaming age. Far from a legacy media role, today’s producers are cutting-edge storytellers, using innovative tools — including streaming and AI-powered systems — to deliver impactful journalism that meets audiences where they are. We’re hiring the top 50 journalism students graduating between December 2025 and June 2026 to join our award-winning team.
Who We’re Looking For:
- Strong writers passionate about impactful, ethical journalism in a multiplatform world
- News junkies with sharp editorial judgment
- Innovators ready to harness emerging tools like AI and streaming systems while upholding journalism values
- Courageous candidates who embrace change and use tech to elevate — not diminish — our reporting
- Future newsroom leaders eager to grow; several former PIRs have already been promoted to management roles
- Journalists active in campus media, especially TV or streaming
- Candidates who thrive under pressure and want to deliver trustworthy live coverage
This Program is Not For:
- On-camera reporters (look for “Multi-Skilled Journalist” roles instead)
- Field-only journalists — this is a newsroom-based role
- Aspiring filmmakers, marketers, influencers, or activists
- Anyone not committed to objective, ethical journalism that presents all sides of a story
Why This Role Matters:
Producing isn’t yesterday’s job. It’s the newsroom’s most future-focused role. At TEGNA, producers drive how stories come alive on streaming, digital, and social platforms — powered by the latest tools and gadgets. It’s a cutting-edge position at the center of innovation and community impact.
The Process:
We receive hundreds of applications and select a small group for interviews and timed writing assessments. Top candidates are matched with a newsroom in one of 40+ TEGNA markets.
What to Expect:
- Full-time, two-year contract (not an internship or fellowship)
- Start date: June 22, 2026 (some earlier dates available)
- Onboarding, a weeklong bootcamp with top TEGNA journalists, and hands-on newsroom training
- Ongoing support from mentors and monthly training sessions
- Career path toward promotion into permanent producer or management roles (80%+ of PIRs are promoted)
Key Responsibilities:
- Produce content across streaming, digital and social platforms
- Innovate and pitch original story ideas
- Collaborate and adapt in a fast-paced content creation environment
Requirements:
- BA/BS in journalism or related field
- Experience producing original journalism-oriented content for campus platforms
- Strong social media skills focused on hard news
- Prior internships or news media experience preferred
- Familiarity with ENPS, CUEZ, Edius or similar programs is a plus
Pay Range: $20 – $24.04 USD