Job Description

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world's population sees AP journalism every day.

The Associated Press seeks a photo assistant to join its photo production desk in Los Angeles. This is a staff position covered by AP’s agreement with the News Media Guild. 

Responsibilities: Reporting to the deputy director of photography for global production, you will research and prepare for publication archival photos for breaking news, sports and enterprise stories from the U.S. and other parts of the world, keep track of assignments, answer coverage questions from colleagues and customers, and assist the with photo curation. You must have the ability and willingness to work any shift, including at night and on weekends, or as coverage demands, as AP is a 24/7 operation.

We’re looking for someone who will:

• work among a team of reporters, photographers and editors to deliver spot news, sports and enterprise imagery that breaks news, has impact and is exclusive to AP.
• be able to acquire third-party content, vet its authenticity and secure permission for publication from the copyright owner.
• have strong communication skills and the ability to recognize and pursue missing coverage elements, often under the pressures of breaking news and imminent deadlines.
• be able to work collaboratively and respond to feedback in a productive manner as a member of a diverse team of colleagues across all formats: text, photo, video, audio, digital/social, interactive and graphics.
• have a strong news sense, with the ability to communicate stories that people will want to share, like and talk about on social media and other platforms.
• pursue innovative and inclusive coverage techniques while maintaining AP’s standards for integrity and objectivity.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, such as at least one year of experience as a photographer or editor at a college publication, daily newspaper, broadcast station, online or digital news outlet, or an AP bureau.
• Authorization to work in the U.S. will be mandatory.
• Advanced-level professional competency in written and spoken English. Professional competency in a second language is a plus.
• Advanced-level professional competency in photography and/or photo editing.

Preferred Qualifications: The successful candidate for this entry level position will be a self-starter with an eye for detail who understands how images and visual storytelling resonate with audiences around the world. You should have strong news judgment, as AP photo assistants are expected to be as familiar with the top news stories of the day and basic elements of what makes for a good photograph. You must have a strong set of technical skills in photography and photo editing, including a sharp sense of photo composition, digital image editing, writing and editing accurate and informative captions. You should have strong organizational skills with the ability to juggle multiple projects across formats and deliver success on a variety of complex, challenging story lines.

We will consider strong candidates who do not meet every listed qualification. You may use a cover letter to describe the unique qualifications you would bring to this role.

 

This position is covered by The Associated Press’ contract with the News Media Guild, which provides for an annual salary for Class B staff of between $47,614.32 and $64,345.32  based on location and years of professional experience. AP may offer additional compensation based on a job candidate’s skills, qualifications and market location.

The Associated Press offers comprehensive benefits which include:

• Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage
• Retirement benefits
• Company paid life insurance
• Paid vacation and sick days
• Paid parental leave for any new parent
• Mental health resources

Benefits may vary based on the job, full-time or part-time schedule, location, and collectively bargained status.

Application deadline is January 10, 2025 at 11:59am EST.

AP seeks to build an inclusive organization grounded in respect for differences. We support all aspects of diversity and provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a veteran, or other characteristic protected by law. We encourage members of historically underrepresented communities, including women and BIPOC, to apply.

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