UConn basketball reporter

USA TODAY Co. • Norwich, CT

12d • $21 - $32 • Onsite

About The Position

The Norwich (Connecticut) Bulletin, part of the USA TODAY Network, is looking for a reporter to join our coverage team, focused on University of Connecticut athletics with primary beat coverage of the NCAA Division I powerhouse women’s and men’s basketball teams. As beat writer, this reporter is expected to provide primary coverage of the Huskies basketball programs, with priority on UConn women’s basketball. This person will need to create sourcing inside and outside the athletic department to break news and provide insight and context on the ever-changing world of women’s and men’s college basketball as it relates to these dual power programs. Content produced on this beat will contribute to the greater USA TODAY Sports Network, including its Studio IX women’s sports vertical. The right candidate will also be involved in coverage of the UConn football program, as well as spot coverage of other sports as audience dictates. We’re seeking someone who is ambitious, can find news and not just follow the crowd. We need a writer who knows her/his voice and isn't afraid of alternatives story paths, especially on social media. This reporter also will be comfortable using metrics to understand the enterprise and day-to-day content that is gaining positive reader response. Engagement will also be important, on social media and in exploring other spaces including Reddit. The candidate will be expected to live in or near Storrs, Connecticut, to provide on-the-spot coverage and will involve some travel, particularly with women’s basketball.

Requirements

• A valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
• Previous sports reporting experience, including face-to-face communication with athletes and coaches.
• Proficiency on social media platforms; including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Reddit.
• Experience shooting and editing photos and video on a mobile device.
• Strong communication skills, news judgement and headline-writing ability.
• Ability to multitask and excel under intense deadline pressure.
• Ability to work collaboratively and efficiently.
• Strong writing, spelling and grammar skills.
• Ability to work nights and weekends.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's or master’s degree in communications, journalism or related field preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

• Create storytelling that accurately informs, entertains and engages specific audiences and platforms through the use of metrics.
• Connect with our readers through storytelling and outreach (social media, on camera, forums, community leadership, etc.).
• Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
• Work with editor and content strategist to evaluate what's working and what's not and develop ongoing plans to satisfy audience needs.
• Collaborate to provide appropriate elements for stories (i.e. photos, videos and graphics).
• Capture basic photos and video as needed.
• Promote personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.
• Provide great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.

Benefits

• The hourly rate for this role will range between $20.67 and $32.30. Base compensation is reflective of many factors, including, but not limited to, the market in which one lives/works, individual education level, skills, certifications and experience. Note: variable compensation is not reflected in these figures and based on the role, may be applicable.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree