1 year as a profesional ...
Unfortunately, that might not be enough.
The WGCL ad says they're looking for someone with at least three years of video editing experience (internships usually aren't considered). Like I said, though: it can't hurt to try.
You should also note that the position is listed as "temporary." Make sure you understand what you're getting into. You don't want to get the job, pack up, move out to Atlanta, and then find yourself out of a job in a month or two.
Also wanted to know what do news directors/chief photogs look for on an editor's reel? format? ex.?
The format is usually dependent on what the station asks for. Nowadays, a lot of candidates use DVDs or web video to promote themselves. The WGCL listing doesn't note what reel format they're looking for, so what you should send depends on what you think is the right way to go.
As far as what the hiring manager looks for: competency and creative ability. It's a little more difficult for an editor to show off his work than a photographer. I think you should consider adding a "supplemental" sheet along with your cover letter and résumé as a rundown of your reel. Provide a
very brief description for each story. Why did you decide to include it on your reel? What skills does it show off? Why is it important that the hiring manager see this story? How long did it take you to edit this story?
Remember: you're going to include references. Don't fluff the "how long" part.
Ask Kevin to move this thread out of the Entry Level sub-forum and into the General sub-forum. This isn't really an entry-level question and you'll probably get more hits in the other sub-forum.