Job and Internship Listings

About WSLR 96.5 FM:

WSLR+Fogartyville is Sarasota’s community media and arts center — an independent, listener-supported station providing trusted local journalism on Florida’s Suncoast. Sarasota is a dynamic news environment where local decisions often make national headlines. Our newsroom is guided by a commitment to truth, accountability, and community service, producing stories that resonate locally and attract attention across the country. We aim to strengthen democracy by giving context to complex issues and amplifying voices that are too often overlooked.

Position Summary:

WSLR News is seeking a reporter who believes in the power of independent journalism to make a difference. The ideal candidate is curious, determined, and unafraid to ask tough questions. This position combines daily reporting with coordinating the afternoon news shift and anchoring the newscast.

This is a live broadcast newsroom — you will be expected to report from the field, broadcast on air daily, working under deadline while collaborating with a dedicated network of volunteer reporters and interns.

Strong production and technical skills are important, but teachable for the right candidate with journalistic instincts and a good ear for radio. Our newsroom primarily uses Audacity, but reporters may use other editing software as long as their workflow is compatible with station systems.

You’ll be part of a small, collaborative team in a dynamic, creative environment that values initiative, teamwork, and integrity.

What You’ll Do:

Cover local government, schools, and elections with accuracy and context.
Report on grassroots organizing, housing, environmental, and social justice issues.
Gather high-quality audio in the field from press conferences, community events, and interviews.
Write clear, concise, and compelling radio copy in broadcast style.
Often anchor the weekday afternoon newscast live on air.
Edit and mix stories using Audacity or comparable digital audio tools.
Produce longer-form features and investigative pieces for weekend broadcasts..
Contribute to a newsroom culture of inclusion, learning, and collaboration.

Qualifications

Required:

Commitment to truth, fairness, and ethical journalism.
Excellent reporting, interviewing, writing, and fact-checking skills.
Confident live on-air presence and comfort in both studio and field settings.
Basic familiarity with digital audio editing (Audacity or similar) and willingness to learn more advanced production skills.
Strong organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines.
Ability to work independently while fostering teamwork and guiding volunteers.

Preferred:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in journalism or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
Experience covering local politics or community affairs.
Familiarity with broadcast automation systems and board operations.
Bilingual a plus
Knowledge of Florida public records law or investigative reporting practices.
Work Environment

Full-time, based on-site at 525 Kumquat Court, Sarasota, FL 34236.
Field reporting throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties required.
Some evenings, weekends, and election coverage expected.
WSLR offers a creative, mission-driven workplace where collaboration, curiosity, and integrity are valued.

Compensation & Benefits:

Salary: $45,000–$50,000 annually, depending on experience.
Benefits: 24 days of accrued PTO per year and flexible scheduling.
Reports to the News & Public Affairs Director.
FLSA Status: Exempt.