Originally posted Feb. 11:
Open WNC Project Coordinator
Carolina Public Press is currently seeking a contract project coordinator for its new Open WNC project, which will be the first effort of its kind in mostly rural Western North Carolina to improve — and, in some cases, create — access to information, education and networks for a more transparent local, county, regional and statewide government.
Carolina Public Press is a nonprofit online news service providing Western North Carolina with unbiased, in-depth and investigative reporting as well as educational opportunities to journalists, students and others. We believe that public interest reporting is critical to an informed, engaged electorate and to ensuring government accountability. Access to data and public records is critical to that accountability and to the ability of community members to participate in a vibrant democracy.
As such, CPP seeks an enthusiastic, experienced and tech-savvy contract program coordinator to join the organization and manage the pilot year of the regional Open WNC effort. The editorial and administrative staff of Carolina Public Press will assist the coordinator to ensure his or her successful completion of the pilot year of the Open WNC project, which will include:
- The formation of a regional partnership of eight academic institutions, media organizations, municipalities and community-based organizations;
- The launch of www.openwnc.org, a free and curated, researchable and downloadable repository of municipal, county and regional records, data, meeting notices and agendas and resources; and
- The training of journalists, students, citizens, civic and municipal leaders on understanding North Carolina public records law and using www.openwnc.org.
The project coordinator position begins ASAP and will continue through the end of 2015, with a flexible work schedule dictated by the project’s needs. Some travel throughout the region may be necessary. The contract, which is potentially renewable and/or expandable for this growth position, currently pays $5,000 for an anticipated average work requirement of 5 hours per week for the year. Candidates will be evaluated on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Our ideal coordinator will have:
- A minimum of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in technology, journalism or community development.
- A minimum of two years of professional project management experience in a community-based, technology or media-related field.
- Appreciation of the importance of public records and open government and their role in democracy.
- Strong skills in writing, public speaking, facilitation and goal-setting with excellent and detail-oriented follow-through.
- A nonpartisan and nonpolitical approach to open data and public records.
- Ability to work independently as well as a positive team and community member.
- Ability to work with — and inspire and motivate — partners from diverse backgrounds with diverse motivations and interests.
Carolina Public Press is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity. Due to the regional nature of the project, you should live within the 18 westernmost counties of the state, be available for virtual and in-person meetings and be willing to travel, as needed.
To apply, send your cover letter describing why you’re perfect for this contract position, your resume/CV and information about a professional, community-based project you helped to coordinate (project summaries, copies of reports, URL links and similar material acceptable). For more information about the Open WNC project, go here.
Submit your information by email to Executive Director Angie Newsome at anewsome@carolinapublicpress.org using the subject line “Open WNC Application.”
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