Freelance Reporter/Content Producer

Courier Newsroom, Inc. • Odessa, TX

1d • Remote

About The Position

COURIER Newsroom is seeking a freelance reporter/content producer to expand its coverage in the Rio Grande Valley and south central Texas. The contractor will independently produce a mix of local news, politics, and lifestyle content to reach audiences beyond traditional news consumers, primarily in south Texas. The ideal candidate is a generalist who understands what stories and topics resonate the most with South Texans, and knows how to turn local reporting into accessible, engaging content for the web, social, and newsletters. COURIER Newsroom is committed to building an inclusive workplace that values diverse perspectives and lived experiences. We strongly encourage women, people of color, individuals with disabilities, LGBTQ+ candidates, and those from all backgrounds to apply. As an equal opportunity employer, we strive to break down barriers and ensure every team member feels seen, heard, and supported.

Requirements

• Must reside in or regularly operate within the Rio Grande Valley region.
• Has a strong understanding of the Rio Grande Valley / South Texas and its culture, as well as the issues that matter locally.
• Has 3+ years of audience-centered local reporting experience.
• Has a previous history of covering local politics, policy, or government for everyday readers.
• Is a strong, clear writer who can break down complex topics in an approachable way.
• Writes in a conversational, accessible tone designed for everyday readers — not insider audiences.
• Is comfortable sourcing stories from community conversations, social media trends, local events, and everyday experiences—not just institutions and press releases.
• Has experience creating content for web (Wordpress) and social platforms (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok).
• Is comfortable experimenting with formats and testing what resonates with audiences.
• Is willing to appear on camera or create video content.
• Has experience using tools like Canva, CapCut, Descript, or similar.

Responsibilities

• Produce 5-8 web stories per week, including a mix of original reporting, aggregation or curated explainers, and wire or partner content.
• Produce 2-4 pieces of social content per week to support newsletter and web stories, which may include short-form video (on-camera or voiceover) and simple graphics (headline cards, carousels).
• Create content designed to drive audience growth and newsletter subscriptions across web and social platforms as directed.
• Participate in Courier Texas team virtual meetings (2-3 times a week) and editorial check-ins as reasonably necessary for coordination on assignments.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed