Breaking News Reporter - Content at Gannett in Fort Myers, Florida

Job Description:

The Fort Myers News-Press and Naples Daily News, part of the USA Today Network, seek a multimedia journalist to cover breaking news in Lee and Collier counties, Florida, a region of about 1.3 million people. This reporter would cover breaking news for digital and social platforms and for print. The top candidate will have a sense of urgency and a nose for news. This reporter will go to the scene of breaking news, including public safety issues, murders, wrecks, disasters, and trials and court hearings, but breaking news coverage will not be limited to crime. This person must be quick to verify real-time news as it happens and first to get that information to the public on digital platforms, providing frequent updates.

The job requires a quick-thinking, go-getter with a curious mind and strong reporting and writing skills. The ideal candidate will be able to write breaking news quickly, use social media effectively and will be asked to develop digital components for news stories, including shooting, editing and publishing video. Expert interviewing skills are a must.

This reporter also should be able to use public records to find enterprising stories; database and other digital-focused skills are a plus. This reporter will need to be able to connect with sources to get the jump on the competition and be able to turn news reports into readable tales and videos.

A key component to this position is understanding the pulse of the community and reporting on topics important to residents, including follows and multiple URLs on hot topics. This includes tracking metrics and doubling down on trending and breaking stories. This job will include some nights and weekends. Work in our two offices - one in Fort Myers, one in Naples - will be required at times.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism or the equivalent in experience and education.
• At least two years' reporting experience; student publication work and internships will be considered.
• Exceptional reporting and writing skills, with photo and video experience a plus.
• Ability to track and respond effectively to audience metrics.
• Ability to excel in a fast-paced environment under deadline pressure.
• Flexibility and availability to work nights and weekends.
• Experience building a brand on key social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube, TikTok).
• Command of journalism law and principles of ethical conduct.
• A valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and insurance as required by state law.

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:

• Your resume - one to two pages.
• A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
• Links to samples of your work. Show us what you've produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role.

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.

Please send an email to Stacey Henson, shenson@gannett.com, letting her know you have filed the submission.

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