Breaking News Reporter

USA TODAY Co. • Cincinnati, OH

3d • $24 - $38

About The Position

The Cincinnati Enquirer/cincinnati.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking a digital-first Breaking News Reporter to cover the region’s biggest stories, including breaking crime, public safety news, and severe weather. The reporter will deliver clear, concise, accurate coverage, look beyond press releases to explain how and why events happen, and recognize breaking news as an entry point to deeper accountability and enterprise reporting. The role also includes explainers, features, and enterprise stories reflecting life in Greater Cincinnati, with reporting that includes a variety of community voices.

The position calls for urgency, curiosity, sound news judgment, accuracy, and a willingness to pursue stories wherever they lead. The reporter will monitor real-time news and publish across available formats and platforms, using audience metrics to inform story choices and beat strategies. The role collaborates with editors to experiment with ways of informing and engaging audiences, including social platforms, alternate story forms, and evergreen content. Schedules may include evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours as news demands.

The Enquirer serves communities in southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky. Applicants should submit a single PDF containing a one- to two-page resume, a cover letter describing their approach to the job, and links to three to six online work samples.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in communications or journalism, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Two or more years of reporting experience; applicants with less experience and strong clips may be considered.
• Proven ability to write on deadline.
• Strong journalism skills in reporting, producing, and editing, and a strong command of AP grammar and style.
• Familiarity with public records and their use in reporting.
• Self-motivation and self-direction.
• Photo and video skills.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work with diverse personalities.
• Ability to use time effectively in a 24-hour news environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional environment.
• Willingness to embrace peer-to-peer feedback and training.
• Innovative and creative thinking to support company goals.
• Industry knowledge and organizational skills.
• Command of media law and Principles of Ethical Conduct.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
• Employment is contingent on passing a post-offer pre-employment background check and motor vehicle record check.

Responsibilities

• Monitor real-time news and identify stories important to audiences.
• Report quickly, clearly, and accurately, delivering news through stories, video, newsletters, Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and other available methods to reach and develop audiences.
• Use metrics to inform story choices and shape beat strategies.
• Work a schedule that may include nights, weekends, holidays, and other times when news demands.
• Collaborate with editors to experiment with ways to inform and engage audiences on social platforms and through alternate story forms, including evergreen content.
• Pursue explainers, features, and enterprise stories that reflect life in Greater Cincinnati and go beyond standard press releases.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level