Growth and transformation reporter

Knoxville, Tennessee is one of the fastest-growing cities in one of the fastest-growing states, and we're seeking a reporter to explore the forces reshaping Knoxville: the visionaries, the rule‑breakers, the neighborhood battles, the infrastructure puzzles and the creative experiments that will define how an influx of 75,000 new residents will live, move and build community here.

The growth and transformation reporter will explain why some projects soar while others stall, uncover the quirky behind‑the‑scenes challenges that shape what gets built and what doesn't, and tell stories that help readers understand not just what's coming but how the future of Knoxville is being engineered, debated and imagined right now.

If you want to help a fast‑growing city understand itself as it transforms, this is the job. And if you're driven by curiosity and energized by change, you'll thrive telling the story of a city being reinvented in real time.

Typical Job Duties:

• Creates storytelling that accurately informs, engages and enlightens our audience.
• Explores and reports on growth and transformation in East Tennessee, particularly Knoxville and Knox County, with a focus on connecting with our audience's passions.
• Works toward becoming the community's leading voice on how growth will transform people's lives.
• Demonstrates clear concise writing skills and an emphasis on "why this is important to me."
• Understands that people love to read about where they're from and how it's viewed from home and from outside.
• Works with our content strategist and audience analyst to evaluate what's working and what's not and develops ongoing plans to better satisfy audience needs.
• Collaborates with our content team to provide all appropriate elements for stories (i.e. videos, photos and graphics). Captures basic video and photos as needed.
• Promotes personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.
• Provides great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.
• Performs other duties as necessary.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in experience and education.
• Record of excellence in reporting.
• Strong news judgment.
• Outstanding research skills and ability to build extensive contacts.
• Ability to create trust within your niche community.
• Knowledge of AP style.
• SEO proficiency.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Passion about news and content that will work well with audiences on social platforms.
• Expertise using social media such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X to enhance reporting and promote stories.
• Knowledge of reporting ethics and sourcing.
• Candidates should have facility with AI and automation and experience in using it to enhance their journalism
• Ability to collaborate well with others and to work within geographically separated teams on the biggest stories.
• Must be willing to travel on short notice to cover breaking news events.
• Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.

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.