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National Trending News Reporter, USA TODAY

Today Flexible / Remote

National Trending News Reporter - USA TODAY

USA TODAY is seeking a Trending News Reporter focused on finding and reporting on the top news of the day.

Breaking News Reporters identify and report on timely stories of interest to our audiences using news judgment, the latest trends, metrics and social tools to find stories that will resonate.

We want someone who can work calmly under tight deadlines, deliver scoops, write quickly, make a lot of phone calls, dig up documents, be creative, think about storytelling on different platforms and deliver sharp headlines. Someone willing to learn new skills is great.

They are also comfortable with live blogs, listicles, quick enterprise stories and excel at SEO. This person will work regularly with reporters and editors across the USA TODAY Network to identify national stories and publish them on USATODAY.com.

The ideal Trending News Reporter is interested in a little bit of everything and has an insatiable curiosity about the world around them. The position demands initiative, accuracy, urgency and insight.

Possible sub beats include consumer tech, money and retail, and quirky stories.

The position requires working one weekend day for a schedule of either Tuesday-Saturday or Sunday-Thursday and sometimes helping out on holidays.

This role is remote and can be based anywhere in the US, except for Alaska and Hawaii.

Responsibilities:

  • Identify and report on top national news stories of the day and monitor real-time news.
  • Write and report quickly and accurately, doggedly chasing down tips and trying to answer readers' questions.
  • Work with coworkers to deliver news via stories, video, newsletters, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or any other methods available to reach our audience.
  • Use metrics to inform story choices and shape strategies.

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Minimum of 2 years' reporting/newsroom experience.
  • Proven ability to file quickly and accurately.
  • Strong command of grammar and style.
  • Passionate and enthusiastic about viral news, breaking news and important topics of the day.
  • Comfortable in fluid, fast-moving, intense situations. Also comfortable using social media to enhance reporting and promote stories.
  • Understanding of reporting ethics and sourcing.
  • Excels in a fast-paced news environment and understands the digital-first mission.
  • Collaborate well with others and work with a team - including teammates and colleagues who are remote.
  • Candidates should have facility with AI and automation and experience in using it to enhance their journalism

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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 outlining how you would approach the role.
  3. Links to no more than three published stories, writing samples.

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-NC1

#LI-Remote

The hourly rate for this role will range between $25.48 and $39.81. Base compensation is reflective of many factors, including, but not limited to, the market in which one lives/works, individual education level, skills, certifications and experience. Note: variable compensation is not reflected in these figures and based on the role, may be applicable.

Client-provided location(s): Flexible / Remote
Job ID: utn-87249
Employment Type: OTHER
Posted: 2026-02-06T20:06:08

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