News Reporter and Newsletter Writer

Gannett - McLean, VA

Full-time - Entry Level

Remote - McLean, VA

Publishing Industries

About the position

Join The Spectrum & Daily News, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, in a mission to save local journalism by providing essential news coverage in St. George, Utah. We are looking for an experienced journalist who is either a local or has a strong connection to the community. You should be passionate about local issues and able to articulate your commitment to St. George's concerns. This role is not just a job; it’s a calling to be the community's most informative voice, engaging with local newsmakers and influencers while driven by curiosity and a commitment to ethical journalism. In this position, you will spend your days reporting on community issues, answering pressing questions, and curating a daily newsletter that highlights the most important stories. You will be responsible for writing and curating content independently under tight deadlines, while also strategizing on how to grow the newsletter audience and convert casual readers into paying subscribers. Familiarity with SEO and Google Trends will be beneficial, and you will have the support of experienced analysts and digital producers. As the sole reporter in St. George, you must be self-motivated and resourceful, working closely with an editor remotely while being part of a nationwide team focused on community journalism. This role will allow you to develop a sustainable model for local journalism that could influence the future of our company and the industry as a whole. While you will have the flexibility to work from home, regular face-to-face meetings with sources and community members will be necessary, and you may need to respond quickly to breaking news events.

Responsibilities

• Possess strong writing, reporting and multi-media skills.
• Display excellent news judgment and journalism ethics.
• Be a constant generator of story ideas and able to produce content early and often.
• Write a daily newsletter that will serve as the digital delivery of the day's most important stories.
• Have familiarity with tools to monitor newsletter metrics.
• Be nimble and experiment with formats and styles, measuring success and implementing new strategies.
• Work effectively with editors, peers, strategists and other colleagues across the company.
• Grow newsletter audience and build a loyal following.
• Practice effective and ethical use of social media for connecting with sources and reaching new audiences.
• Have a knack for SEO-driven headlines and other audience-driving strategies.
• Be nimble and able to adjust swiftly to shifting news demands.
• Provide great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.
• Travel quickly to wherever the news occurs or is being disseminated.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or master's degree in journalism, communication or an equivalent combination of education and experience in local news.
• 1-3 years of reporting experience, preferably with digital focus.
• Commitment to detail, accuracy and fairness.
• Strong command of grammar, AP style, media law and SPJ Code of Ethics.
• Excellent reporting and writing skills.
• Digital proficiency, including social media and MS Office suite.
• A dedication to community journalism.
• Ability to work accurately and to apply critical thinking to complex issues.
• Ability to meet deadlines.
• Good observation skills.
• This role requires a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.

Benefits

• Flexible work-from-home options
• Opportunity to influence local journalism
• Support from experienced analysts and digital producers