A Gray Television Recruiter approached a Journalist and let’s just say, he was a bit underwhelmed by their offer.

Here is the redacted exchange.

Good afternoon!

My name is Jennifer Dale. I’m the VP of Recruiting for Gray Television. I’m contacting you because things have changed a bit in our company—for the better! I’m proud of the fact that in 2023 we will be offering free (to the employee) healthcare options. We also are upping our 401k match from 3.5% to 5%. For our newest employees, we have raised our company minimum wage to $18/hr.

While many of our markets will pay more than that, I know for a minimum wage, that is far, far more than I made when I was a fresh out of college producer! We have also increased our PTO for new employees. New employees start earning 10 hours of PTO a month starting the day they are hired.

Gray has always offered bonuses to all employees based on the performance of their television stations. When I was news director, I saw first hand how impactful those bonuses were to our youngest employees. I’m not sure about your experience with bonuses, but that didn’t happen to me when I was a producer OR mid-level news manager.

Gray TV has 180 stations in 133 markets. If you are interested in any position with Gray, please fill out the link below. This isn’t an application, but rather a form that will help us know when you would be available and what you would be looking for location & job wise.

We aren’t just looking for news employees- we have incredible opportunities in sales, creative services, marketing, engineering and production. I always joke that I didn’t choose to work for Gray. They bought my television station and I came with the building! However, it has been a wonderful experience—and I am proud to be a part of it. Thanks for taking the time to read this message. Jennifer Email me: jennifer.dale@gray.tv Link to Future Candidate Database: https://f

Jennifer Dale Vice President of Recruiting

Here is the Journalist’s reply.

Thank you for your inquiry Jennifer.

I have been in this business for well over 25 years, $18 an hour doesn't spark my interest.

I was already employed by your company from X to X, it was a pleasant experience.

We were sold to X when Gray bought X from X.

My ask is $45 per hour, 5.75 weeks of PTO and a car allotment of $38 per week.

I look forward to your response.

Thank you for your interest and have a wonderful day!

No word if Gray has responded.