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-weekly 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