Features Reporter

USA TODAY Co. • Columbus, OH

13h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Columbus Dispatch, part of the USA TODAY Co., is looking for a talented feature writer to fill a role focused on profiling “Everyday Kindness Heroes” for our daily print and digital products along with our magazines, Columbus Monthly and Columbus CEO.
This grant-funded position will play a key role in serving our central Ohio audience by providing engaging journalism on people making a difference in our vibrant and diverse community. Examples of this coverage can be found at dispatch.com/kindness.
The hybrid position requires relocation to the growing Columbus region, a state capital that’s home to The Ohio State University, Nationwide Insurance, and many other key employers.
This reporter will focus on key areas:

Requirements

• Bachelor's or master’s degree in journalism or any other subject or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 1-3 years reporting experience, preferably in a digitally focused news organization.
• Commitment to detail, accuracy and fairness.
• Ability to multi-task and excel under deadline pressure, using time efficiently.
• 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, drug screen and motor vehicle record check.

Responsibilities

• Managing a high-volume beat, responsible for significant features per week for The Dispatch and up to two per month for our local magazines.
• Provide rapid-response trending coverage and beat work as assigned.
• Producing or collaborating on videos to accompany text or for social platforms.
• Monitoring social media, news feeds, and other relevant sources to identify emerging trends.
• Understanding social media, Google trends, audience metrics and SEO techniques.
• Having a competitive spirit to see their work at the top of our page view charts each day.
• Willing to become the face of the “Everyday Kindness Heroes” program, including public speaking at community events and an annual awards presentation.

What This Job Offers

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