Auto Industry Reporter

USA Today•Nashville, TN

12d•Hybrid

About The Position

USA TODAY Co. is seeking an ambitious reporter to lead national coverage of the South's rapidly evolving auto industry, where billions of dollars in vehicle, battery and advanced-manufacturing investments are reshaping local economies and the future of transportation. Based in Nashville, this reporter will be close to major operations and suppliers tied to Ford, General Motors, Nissan, Volkswagen, Mitsubishi and a rapidly expanding network of battery manufacturers, technology firms and supply-chain companies. This role requires regular travel across the South, from factory corridors and ports to corporate HQs, labs, startup hubs and statehouses, following the money, the technology, the politics and the people living with the consequences. Working closely with USA TODAY's national auto initiative, this reporter will pursue exclusive reporting on manufacturing, corporate strategy, economic development and emerging technologies while producing a mix of breaking news, accountability journalism, investigations and consumer-focused coverage. The beat sits at the intersection of business, technology, politics and transportation, covering the forces reshaping a trillion-dollar global industry: the race to build the next generation of EVs and batteries; the resurgence of hybrids; tariff and trade battles; increased competition with Chinese automakers; labor and unionization efforts; autonomous vehicles; supply-chain shifts; factory expansions and closures; recalls and the fierce competition among states to attract jobs and investment. The successful candidate will be adept at reaching audiences across platforms, including social media, video, audio and newsletters.

Requirements

Bachelor's or master’s in communications, journalism or related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
3+ years of writing/journalism/newsroom experience.
Strong command of grammar and style.
Strong copy-editing skills and the ability to produce content that is clean, accurate and "publication ready."
Comfortable in fluid, fast-breaking, stressful situations.
A desire to grow and develop a key beat in our newsrooms.
Comfort using social media such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat to enhance reporting and promote stories.
Understanding of reporting ethics and sourcing.
Excel in a fast-paced news environment and understands the digital-first mission.
Collaborate well with others and can work with a team on the biggest stories.
Facility with AI and automation and experience in using it to enhance their journalism.
A valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.

Nice To Haves

Video production or editing skills
Knowledge of newsletter strategy and performance metrics

Responsibilities

Experience with fast, accurate, explain-it-now coverage when news breaks, as well as smart, service-forward reporting that helps readers navigate changes, and enterprise and investigative work that explains the forces shaping the region and surfaces what others miss.
Be curious about complex systems involving business, technology, policy and people, with strong investigative instincts, a collaborative mindset, comfort with multimedia reporting and travel.
Pitch timely ideas based on trends, news and audience demand.
Create video and multiplatform content optimized for newsletters, search and social media.
Collaborate with editors and reporters across the network to amplify reach.
Build and maintain relationships with sources across the automotive and technology industries as well as government.
Monitor performance metrics and adjust strategies to improve engagement.
Have a passion for cars, car culture, technology and transportation systems.
Strong writing, reporting and multimedia storytelling skills.
Familiarity with SEO, social media best practices, and audience analytics.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively on deadline.
Clear, concise writing that avoids jargon and connects with readers.
Excellent news judgment and communication skills.