Breaking News and Trending Topics Reporter

The Tallahassee Democrat, part of the USA TODAY Network, is seeking a digital-firstBreaking 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

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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