Freelance Story Desk Editor
About The Position
As a freelance Story Desk Editor, you will be part of the Story Management Desk (SMD), a unified desk that replaces the legacy assignment and digital desks. The SMD model ensures a single, streamlined workflow for planning, producing and curating stories across platforms. You will assist with coverage during breaking news, shape daily story planning, and curate content across platforms. This position requires decisive editorial judgment, strong writing skills, and the ability to thrive under tight deadlines. You will collaborate with MSJs, producers and photojournalists to deliver accurate, relevant and engaging stories that serve the community. This position is for weeknights and weekend nights.
Requirements
- 1-3 years of journalism experience in a local newsroom, digital production, or related role
- Strong news judgment and the ability to make fast, sound editorial decisions under pressure
- Excellent writing skills, with the ability to produce accurate and compelling content quickly
- Experience with newsroom systems, CMS tools
- Knowledge of using digital analytics platforms like Google Analytics and Google Data Studio to make coverage decisions a plus
- Organizational skills to manage competing priorities in a deadline-driven environment
- A collaborative, solutions-focused mindset that thrives in a team environment
- Ability to prioritize and manage requests from various sources within strict deadlines
- Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or equivalent experience
- Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and/or holidays, as warranted by vacations/breaking news coverage
Nice To Haves
- Knowledge of using digital analytics platforms like Google Analytics and Google Data Studio to make coverage decisions a plus
Responsibilities
- News gathering during breaking news, ensuring accuracy, urgency and balance, and communicate coverage plans clearly across the newsroom
- Identify and plan stories that matter most to the community, using editorial judgment and social listening
- Create and edit engaging content for digital platforms: website, mobile app and streaming
- Guide newsroom logistics and provide editorial support for MSJs, producers, and photojournalists
- Edit reporter content for accuracy, grammar, AP style, digital best practices, fairness and ethical considerations
- Enhance storytelling with creative elements (graphics, video, audience-submitted content, etc.)
- Use available metrics to inform coverage and improve audience reach
- Support newsroom operations and coverage planning as needed
- Uphold TEGNA’s journalistic standards and values across all platforms
Benefits
- Two medical plan options for full and part-time employees through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas
- Access to dental and eye care coverage
- Fertility, surrogacy and adoption assistance
- Disability and life insurance
- 401(k) program with company match
- Nine free virtual doctor’s appointments with a physician through Teladoc
- 12 free annual therapy sessions with a licensed clinician through Spring Health
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Nine paid holidays per year
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Mid Level
