Sports Reporter, Monroe, LA

The News Star in Monroe, Louisiana, part of the USA TODAY Network, is looking for a self-starter to report on sports at nearly two dozen northeast Louisiana high schools, as well as NCAA athletics at the area's Division I universities.

We want someone who is ambitious. We want someone who will own the beat with voice and authority -- both in stories and on social media platforms through experimentation with different media and formats.

This reporter will be comfortable using metrics to understand the enterprise and watchdog stories our readers want and will have the reporting and writing chops to deliver. They will enjoy building relationships with players, coaches, parents and fans, and will tap into those sources to break news and find compelling human-interest stories.

The Monroe area consistently has teams competing for state high school championships in a variety of sports, and a trio of Division I programs are in the area: hometown Louisiana-Monroe, HBCU stalwart Grambling State, and Louisiana Tech.

• Create storytelling that accurately informs, entertains and engages specific audiences and platforms through the use of metrics.
• Work toward becoming the community's leading voice of expertise in college sports.
• Connect with the community through storytelling and outreach (social media, on camera, forums, community leadership, etc.). Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
• Work with editor and content strategist to evaluate what's working and what's not and develop ongoing plans to satisfy audience needs.
• Collaborate to provide appropriate elements for stories (i.e. photos, videos and graphics). Capture basic photos and video as needed.
• Promote personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.
• Provide great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.

• A valid driver's license, reliable transportation and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
• Bachelor's or master's degree in communications, journalism or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Previous reporting experience preferred; even better if you've covered sports.
• Proficiency on social media platforms; including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Reddit.
• Experience shooting and editing photos and video on a mobile device.
• Strong communication skills, news judgement and headline-writing ability.
• Ability to multitask and excel under intense deadline pressure.
• Ability to work collaboratively and efficiently.
• Strong writing, spelling and grammar skills; familiarity with AP style.
• Ability to work some nights and weekends.
• Comfort building a beat and communicating with athletes and coaches.

• Your resume - one to two pages.
• A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
• 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.