Athens GA Part-Time Sports Reporter

The Athens Banner-Herald, part of the USA TODAY Co Network, is looking for a part-time reporter to bolster our award-winning coverage of the University of Georgia and high school athletics in and around Clarke County. 

The Banner-Herald covers the University of Georgia athletic department, as well as 17 high schools in the area which routinely compete for state championships. There are also dozens of high-level college recruits spanning multiple sports in the area. It creates a host of story opportunities for our staff.  

This person could work alongside our current staff of two reporters on the biggest event coverage in town, then later asked to work independently on content in a host of other areas. We need someone who’s comfortable on their own but will also get time alongside colleagues and a full-time editor for feedback and growth. This position is tailor-made for a young, up-and-coming journalist who’s seeking experience in the field ahead of their first full-time journalism position.  

Athens, Georgia, is a college town with a vibrant culture. Known for its music and — of course — football, Athens has a wide range of activities, festivals, dining, breweries and more for its residents. Athens is located in North Georgia, about 1.5 hours northeast of Atlanta. 

Responsibilities: 

• 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 high school 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.  

Requirements: 

• 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 preferred 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. 
• Knowledge of proper AI ethics. Experience using it is preferred. 
• 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 communicating with athletes and coaches. 

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: 

• 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. 

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