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