Breaking News Reporter

The Cincinnati Enquirer/cincinnati.com part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking a digital-first reporter to be part of the Breaking News team.

Job Details:

This reporter will be at the center of the region's biggest stories, from breaking crime and public safety news to severe weather. The reporter understands that breaking news is often the front door to deeper accountability and enterprise reporting.

A great breaking news reporter cuts through official-speak and lets the community know what's happening clearly and concisely. We're looking for a reporter who goes beyond standard press releases, digging into how and why things happen. Reporters on this team also pursue explainers, features and other enterprise stories that reflect life in Greater Cincinnati.

The position requires urgency, curiosity, accuracy and a willingness to chase news wherever it leads. It also demands strong news judgment and the ability to find and identify stories with impact and reflect the community through the inclusion of a variety of voices.

About The Enquirer:

The Enquirer, founded in 1851, serves communities in southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky. With major league sports (go Bengals!), a blossoming food and craft beer scene, hundreds of parks, world-class performing arts and eight Fortune 500 companies, Cincinnati offers the amenities of a big city with the comfort and charm of a small town.

Responsibilities:

• Monitor real-time news and sniff out stories that are important to our audiences.
• Report quickly, clearly and accurately and deliver news via stories, video, newsletters, Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok or any other methods available to reach our audience and develop new audiences.
• Use metrics to inform story choices and shape beat strategies.
• Work a schedule that may include nights, weekends and whenever news demands.
• Work with editors to experiment with new ways of informing and engaging audiences on social platforms and through alternate story forms. This includes long-tail (evergreen) content.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's or master's in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 2 + years of reporting experience, applicants with less experience and strong clips may be considered.
• Proven ability to write on deadline.
• Exceptional core journalism skills (reporter, producing, editing). Strong command of AP grammar and style.
• Familiarity with public records and their use in reporting.
• Self-motivation and self-direction.
• Photo and video skills.
• Effective communicator; able to get along with diverse personalities.
• Knows how to use time effectively in a 24-hour news environment.
• Works collaboratively within a cross-functional environment.
• Must embrace peer-to-peer feedback and training.
• Applies innovative, creative thinking to support the company's goals.
• Industry knowledge.
• Organizational skills.
• Command of media law and Principles of Ethical Conduct.
• This position sometimes requires employees to work extended hours, evening, weekends and holidays, sometimes unexpectedly.
• This role requires a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
• Employment is contingent on passing a post-offer pre-employment background check, motor vehicle record check.

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.

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The hourly rate for this role will range between $24.28 and $37.94. Variable incentive compensation, including commissions, is not reflected in these figures and based on the role, may be applicable. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, education level, location, and union representation, if applicable.