Breaking News and Trending Topics Reporter
Yesterday• Tallahassee, FL
The Tallahassee Democrat, part of the USA TODAY Network, is seeking a digital-first Breaking and Trending News Reporter to lead fast, accurate coverage of the biggest stories in the capital region - and the conversations driving them.
This is a high-impact role at the center of daily news, responsible for identifying, verifying and publishing stories that Tallahassee-area readers are searching for, talking about and sharing, and doing so in real time.
We're looking for a competitive, audience-focused journalist who thrives on urgency, embraces analytics, and tells people-first stories that explain not just what happened, but why it matters.
What you'll do
- Own breaking news coverage for Tallahassee and Leon County, delivering fast, accurate updates as stories develop
- Identify trending topics using tools like social media, Google Trends and audience metrics, and quickly turn them into high-interest stories
- Produce high-volume digital journalism from quick-turn stories to explainers, live updates and enterprise follow-ups
- Write with urgency and clarity, filing quickly while maintaining accuracy and strong news judgment
- Focus on people-first storytelling, showing how news impacts local residents and communities
- Optimize content for digital audiences, including SEO headlines, engagement formats and multimedia elements
- Monitor real-time analytics to refine coverage and respond to reader demand
- Develop sources and original reporting, going beyond aggregation to add context and depth
- Collaborate with editors and reporters across the USA TODAY Network to localize statewide and national stories
- Produce photos, video and social content to extend reach and engagement
What we're looking for
- A digitally savvy, self-starting reporter who thrives in a fast-paced environment
- Strong news judgment and the ability to spot stories that will resonate with readers
- Proven ability to write quickly, accurately and engagingly on deadline
- Experience using SEO, social listening and audience metrics to drive coverage decisions
- A competitive mindset and passion for growing audience and reach
- Be comfortable juggling breaking news, trending topics and enterprise work simultaneously
- Ability to produce multimedia content, including photos and video
- Strong understanding of journalism ethics, media law and AP style
- Bachelor's degree in journalism or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 2+ years of reporting experience preferred
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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. 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.
#Newsgnt
#LI-CB1
Client-provided location(s): Tallahassee, FL
Job ID: utn-91244
Employment Type: OTHER
Posted: 2026-08-05T20:32:24
Perks and Benefits
Health and Wellness
- HSA With Employer Contribution
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Short-Term Disability
- Long-Term Disability
- FSA
- Pet Insurance
- Mental Health Benefits
- HSA
Parental Benefits
- Fertility Benefits
- Adoption Assistance Program
- Family Support Resources
- Birth Parent or Maternity Leave
- Non-Birth Parent or Paternity Leave
Work Flexibility
- Flexible Work Hours
- Remote Work Opportunities
- Hybrid Work Opportunities
Office Life and Perks
- Commuter Benefits Program
- Casual Dress
Vacation and Time Off
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Personal/Sick Days
- Leave of Absence
- Volunteer Time Off
Financial and Retirement
- Financial Counseling
- 401(K)
- Performance Bonus
- Relocation Assistance
Professional Development
- Internship Program
- Leadership Training Program
- Mentor Program
- Access to Online Courses
- Lunch and Learns
- Work Visa Sponsorship
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Promote From Within
Diversity and Inclusion
- Employee Resource Groups (ERG)
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program