Dining, Retail and Culture Reporter

USA Today Co • Fayetteville, NC

7d

About The Position

The Fayetteville Observer/fayobserver.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking a curious and passionate storyteller to cover dining, retail and culture for the residents of Cumberland County, North Carolina, with a strong focus on storytelling and community connection. This reporter will find and tell compelling stories that explore how dining, retail and culture intersect with community identity, history and change in Fayetteville and surrounding communities. The role centers on rich storytelling and meaningful community engagement, reflecting the voices and experiences of longtime residents and newcomers alike. The Dining, Retail and Culture Reporter will produce compelling stories about restaurants, retail businesses, dining trends and the people who shape Fayetteville’s food and retail culture. Coverage may also extend to Fayetteville’s entertainment scene, highlighting how creative spaces and events reflect the city’s diversity, history and shared experiences. The role includes coverage of breaking news and emerging trends tied to restaurant and business development, including the opening and closing of high‑interest local businesses as well as regional and national chains. The reporter balances quick-hit news with enterprise and trend reporting, helping readers understand how Fayetteville is growing and changing through its food, retail and cultural landscape. Equity and inclusion are central to our reporting. This reporter will be expected to build relationships with members of diverse communities. Reporting should be people-centered and include narrative storytelling that delivers depth, context and insight. This position requires a Tuesday through Saturday workweek, reflecting the volume of news and community activity that occurs on Saturdays. The Fayetteville Observer, the oldest daily newspaper in North Carolina, serves the Sandhills region of the state. Fayetteville, the county seat of Cumberland County, has experienced significant growth and development in recent years and is home to Fort Bragg, one of the largest military installations in the world. The city is known for its rich history, evolving food scene and wide range of cultural events that reflect its diverse population.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or master’s degree in communications, journalism or related field preferred or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 1+ years of professional experience; strong college work will be considered.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize, self-start, multitask, contribute and excel under pressure.
• Strong command of AP grammar and style.
• Strong copy-editing skills and the ability to produce content that is clean, accurate and "publication ready."
• Is passionate and enthusiastic about news and content that will work well with audiences on social platforms.
• Is comfortable using social media such as Twitter/X, Facebook and Instagram to enhance reporting and promote stories.
• Candidates should have facility with AI and automation and experience in using it to enhance their journalism.
• Understands reporting ethics and sourcing.
• Excels in a fast-paced news environment and understands the digital-first mission.
• Works weekends and nights as needed.
• Collaborates well with others and can work with a team on the biggest stories.
• This role requires a 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, motor vehicle record check & urinalysis drug screen (for driving roles only).

Responsibilities

• Creates storytelling that accurately informs and engages specific audiences.
• Work toward becoming the community’s leading voice in area of expertise.
• Write both quick-turn stories on news of the day as well as more in-depth enterprise stories.
• Plans and executes engagement opportunities to reach audiences through content, community events and social media.
• Connects with the community through outreach and engagement (social media, forums, community leadership, etc.).
• Collaborates with content team to provide appropriate elements for stories (i.e. photos, videos and graphics).
• Produces basic photos and video as needed
• Promotes personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institution
• Provides great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.

What This Job Offers

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