NEWSPAPER REPORTER

Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino is seeking a Newspaper Reporter to produce original, accurate, community-centered journalism for the Mescalero Apache Tribal Newspaper. The role reports to the Casino Advertising Marketing Manager and is responsible for developing story ideas, covering assigned beats, and filing clean, on-deadline copy for a twice-monthly print edition while maintaining culturally respectful coverage.

• Plan, report, write, and file stories to deadline for a twice-monthly, 8-page newspaper.
• Own coverage beats including tribal governance, education, culture/language, health, youth/elders, public safety, and economic development.
• Conduct interviews, gather documents and data, and attend public/tribal meetings and community events as assigned.
• Shoot basic photos and write captions; coordinate art needs and page placement with the Administrative & Layout Coordinator.
• Fact-check rigorously; follow AP Style and brand standards; promptly correct inaccuracies.
• Maintain an editorial calendar and source lists; log contacts and releases; uphold privacy and cultural protocols.
• Contribute briefs and community notes; support web/social posting as needed.
• Research and implement new technologies, including artificial intelligence, to enhance marketing operations.
• Perform other duties as needed.

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism/Communications or equivalent professional newsroom experience.
• Demonstrated reporting portfolio showing clear writing, accuracy, and community engagement.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and/or Google Workspace; familiarity with AP Style; comfort with basic photo/audio tools.
• Cultural competency and knowledge of NAJA/IJA guidelines for reporting in Indian Country (or willingness to learn).
• Excellent organization and communication skills; ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to work some evenings/weekends for meetings and events.
• Must be at least 21 years old and able to obtain/maintain a gaming license if required by work location.
• Bilingual English/Spanish or Apache language skills preferred; Mescalero Apache Tribal preference and bicultural experience preferred.

• Schedule includes some evenings and weekends for meetings and events.
• Work involves office and field reporting with frequent public contact.
• Physical demands include frequent sitting/keyboard use and occasional standing/walking; occasional lifting up to 25 lbs; driving to on-reservation/off-site locations.
• Noise levels may vary; occasional exposure to outdoor weather; potential incidental exposure to second-hand smoke in certain on-property areas.