The Deep South Connect Team (Louisiana) , part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is looking for a high-energy, endlessly curious reporter to join our breaking news, trending, and service journalism team. Our Connect team plays a key role in growing audience by providing fast-paced, engaging journalism that helps readers navigate their lives, keep on top of local issues and trends, stay safe during public emergencies, and connect with the community and world around them.
The right candidate understands or is eager to learn what residents here care about. The reporter is SEO savvy, can spot high-interest topics using engagement tools like Google Trends and can work independently but also thrives in collaborative environments.
Louisiana is a vibrant tapestry of rich culture, delicious cuisine, and lively music, deeply rooted in its unique history and diverse communities.
Our team focuses on four key areas:
Finding and answering key questions local readers are asking on search and social, sometimes before they ask them.
Creating service-journalism oriented content in companion to local topics in the news.
What's trending and part of the conversation in the state of Louisiana, to help readers understand the importance/impact locally around national news Localizing national trending stories in a service-journalism way with content that relates to the questions readers are asking about breaking news.
Amplify breaking news coverage.
Evergreen, seasonal ideas when local buzz or breaking is lighter. This includes content relevant to reader curiosity, an engagement series or light accountability work.
The successful candidate will need to:
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 during peak audience periods.
Have a knack for SEO-driven headlines and other audience-driving strategies.
Be nimble and able to adjust swiftly to shifting news demands.
Requirements:
Bachelor's or master's degree in journalism or any other subject or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
4-5 years reporting experience, preferably in a digitally focused news organization.
Commitment to detail, accuracy and fairness.
Ability to multi-task and excel under deadline pressure, using time efficiently.
This role requires a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
Application Instructions
We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don't limit your upload to a resume; show us what you've done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order:
1. Your resume - one to two pages. 2. A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job. 3. Examples of at least five stories you're proud of. Try to include some that you turned quickly and that used alternative story forms.
It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.