Field Producer (Midwest), MS NOW Newsgathering

Company Description

VERSANT is a leading force in news, sports and entertainment - home to iconic and trusted brands that inspire, inform, and delight audiences. Our unique combination of content, technology and services enriches the cultural fabric, igniting passions, sparking conversations, and connecting people to what they love most.

As an independent, publicly traded company, VERSANT brings together powerhouse cable networks - including USA Network, CNBC, MS NOW (formerly MSNBC), Oxygen, E!, SYFY, and Golf Channel - with dynamic digital and direct-to-consumer brands such as Fandango, Rotten Tomatoes, GolfNow, GolfPass, and SportsEngine. Together, these businesses reflect our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences across every screen and service.

VERSANT is an industry-changing media company fueled by innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit. With a strong foundation and a forward-looking vision, VERSANT empowers creativity, embraces change, and drives connection in an ever-evolving world.

Job Description

The MS NOW Field Producer (Midwest Region) must be a creative and resourceful storyteller with a proven track record of producing compelling breaking and enterprise news coverage. This role requires working closely with reporters and production teams to pitch, develop, and produce impactful stories across all broadcast and digital platforms, with a strong emphasis on distinctive visual storytelling. Candidates will be expected to travel on short notice—primarily within the Midwest—for extended periods and work a variety of shifts.

Location: Chicago, IL

Key Responsibilities:

• Pitch, develop, and execute compelling enterprise and day-of news stories for television and digital platforms
• Produce live segments from the field, studio, or remote locations, managing all aspects from concept through delivery
• Write and vet scripts, oversee reporter packages, and contribute companion digital stories
• Conduct in-person and remote interviews; research, approve, and create graphics and other postproduction elements
• Coordinate on-site coverage of breaking news and live events, managing logistics, editorial direction, and crew operations Secure locations, clearances, and interviews while maintaining ethical standards and journalistic integrity
• Edit video content from field footage, agency feeds, and affiliates for use across platforms
• Provide real-time updates to newsroom teams and troubleshoot technical issues as needed
• Operate flexibly, including supporting the Assignment Desk when required
• Thrive under tight deadlines in high-pressure environments, ensuring smooth execution in the field and alignment with network standards

Qualifications

• Minimum five years’ experience in a major television news organization
• Experience producing live segments, both in the field and in the studio or from remote network locations
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Outstanding news judgment, critical and strategic thinking, strong organizational skills, and the ability to be persistent yet diplomatic Strong knowledge of newsgathering, including multiple transmission formats and social media
• Continuously develop and maintain sources that result in original reporting and sourcing
• Must have flexibility and ability to work long and varied schedules and travel—primarily within the Midwest region
• Proficient in shooting reporters in the field using a range of camera technologies, including DSLR, and mobile newsgathering tools such as smartphones and LiveU or Dejero units
• Must have a valid driver’s license

This position is eligible for company sponsored benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k), paid leave, tuition reimbursement, and a variety of other discounts and perks.

Salary Range: $100,000 - $120,000

Additional Information

As part of our selection process, external candidates may be required to attend an in-person interview with a VERSANT Media employee at one of our locations prior to a hiring decision. VERSANT Media's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

For LA County and City Residents Only: VERSANT Media will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories, or arrest or conviction records, in a manner consistent with relevant legal requirements, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the Los