The USA TODAY Network is seeking an SEC/College Sports Trending Sports Writer to contribute to a new initiative spearheaded by the nation's largest local newspaper chain. The ideal candidate will be a highly productive writer who can quickly respond to news and developments in the Big Ten and Southeastern Conference -- the epicenters of college football -- and play an integral role in increasing the visibility of local sites across 50+ properties in the Network, especially on search and social.
This hourly position requires a proven ability to write with precision, information and, when appropriate, flair. It also demands a strong understanding of SEO best practices and optimization and a knack for identifying the latest developments in college sports popular culture. The ability to write clean copy, generate ideas and be a willing team member is a must.
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Night and weekend work will be required. This is a remote job, which means staying on task is an integral aspect of the role.
Responsibilities:
- Create smart, thoughtful, engaging, content in a variety of formats to rapidly grow audience.
- Work closely with direct editor and site editors to avoid duplication and ensure streamlining needs.
- Master best practices for maximum reach on search / social and commit to getting content to top of Google carousels.
- Stay on front lines of what's buzzing in Big Ten and SEC to disseminate quick responses on trending topics.
- Track performance and be comfortable in an environment of constant adjustment to reach performance goals.
- Display creativity in everything from developing fresh content to writing SEO-friendly headlines to sharing content socially to having an eye for images and video.
- Own the opportunity to execute strategy, make massive audience gains in multiple markets and work in a fast-moving journalism environment.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's or master's degree in communications, journalism, marketing or related field or combination of education and experience.
- 1-3 years' experience as a sports journalist, with focus on fast-paced digital content and multimedia platforms.
- Understanding of various news and information content management systems.
- A history of collaboration, innovation and goal achievement.
- Proven history of maximizing SEO opportunity by anticipating news and researching trends
- Strong social media skills.
- Ability to write with accuracy and precision.
- Excellent communication and time-management skills.
- Approachability, personal charisma and a commitment to staff.
- Understanding of the changing sports media landscape and ability to adapt strategies that address continually changing market and consumer needs and desires.
- Strong competitive instincts and intellectual curiosity.
How to Apply:
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. Links to 3-6 online 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.
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The hourly rate for this role will range between $15.87 and $38.70. Variable compensation is not reflected in these figures and based on the role, may be applicable. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, location, and union representation, if applicable.