Campus Media Video Journalist

Reports to: Silhouette Section Editor

Hours: Approx 4 - 6 hours per week

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 be reviewing candidates starting immediately.

The Video Journalist is responsible for producing one short-form video package bi- week ly in support of The Silhouette and 93.3 CFMU’s multimedia operations. Assigned to a specific section (News, Opinion, Arts & Culture, Sports, and CFMU), the Video Journalist will pitch story ideas to their Editor and develop field-based, storytelling-driven video content for publication across social media . The role blends reporting, on-camera presence, and content creation. The Video Journalist will conduct interviews, capture footage, and produce a rough edit of their video. Final review, refinement, and publishing will be completed in collaboration with the Digital Media Specialist and Video Production Coordinator.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Research & Assignment Function

Pitch at least one video story idea bi-week to their assigned Editor

Develop video concepts aligned with section priorities and newsroom standards

Ensure reporting is accurate, balanced, and consistent with The Silhouette and CFMU’s mandates

Production Function

Film interviews, b-roll, and on-location footage

Appear on camera when appropriate to support storytelling

Complete a rough edit of each video for review

Editing & Publication Function

Submit rough cuts to the Digital Media Specialist for refinement and distribution

Work with the Video Production Coordinator on technical production support as needed

Adapt content to platform specifications (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, website embeds)

Meet bi-weekly production deadlines

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Ability to develop compelling video stories in accordance with The Silhouette’s editorial standards

Strong verbal communication skills for on-camera reporting and interviewing

Ability to research, pitch, and structure visual narratives

Personal skills to work collaboratively with SIL/CFMU team

Basic proficiency in video editing software (basic understanding of Adobe Premiere Pro is an asset)

Understanding of short-form digital storytelling for Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and web platforms

Knowledge of basic videography techniques including framing, lighting, and audio capture

Time management and organizational skills to meet bi-weekly production deadlines

Knowledge of media law and ethical reporting standards

Effort & Responsibility

Attention to detail to ensure accuracy, balance, and technical quality in video content

Persistence in obtaining accurate information and securing interviews

Responsibility to represent The Silhouette and CFMU professionally in public settings

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

Effort required to coordinate filming, editing, and revisions within a bi-weekly production cycle

Responsibility for handling and returning SIL/CFMU equipment properly

Use SIL/CFMU equipment responsibly and in accordance with internal procedures

Working Conditions

Field-based reporting across campus and within the Hamilton community (busing or alternate transportation may be required)

Silhouette shared office space around a lounges

Exposure to weather conditions

CFMU office (lounge space)

Filming may occur outdoors and in varying environmental conditions

Time demands may occasionally exceed stated hours of work during peak coverage periods

Training and Experience

Journalism experience (previous experience with the Silhouette or CFMU is an asset)

Basic video editing experience required; advanced technical training will be supported internally

Familiarity with social media platforms and digital publishing environments

Equipment

Must have laptop for video editing (software provided)

SIL/CFMU video and audio recording equipment available for use

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