Breaking News and Trending Topics Reporter

Discovered

USA TODAY Co.

Tallahassee, FLexternalWriting and EditingPosted 7 days ago (Aug 5, 2026)

The Tallahassee Democrat

, part of the USA TODAY Network, is seeking a digital-first

Breaking 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. #Newsgnt #LI-CB1

Not published in this posting

The company didn't include about the role, benefits in the source posting. The hiring team may have more details on their own site.