Trending Topics/Service Journalism Reporter

The Athens Banner-Herald, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking a dynamic and digitally savvy journalist to lead our service journalism and trending topics coverage in this northeast Georgia city that is home to the University of Georgia. This person will work to identify, verify and curate news of what Athenians are talking about. This job requires an understanding of social media platforms, audience metrics and SEO techniques; quick, tight, lively writing; and a competitive mindset determined to see one’s work at the top our pageview charts each day.

This reporter will chase news, politics, business and entertainment stories, as well as features, about topics already trending online or based on online conversations. It’s a high-volume beat, responsible for two to three short posts most weekdays. But doing the job well requires much more than curation. This reporter is expected to pitch a handful of high-audience-potential ideas each morning, add smart context, seek out appropriate multimedia and do original reporting to add value to a reader’s experience. The job also requires writing inviting headlines and social language to lure the biggest possible audience.

Most of these stories will be directed at new and occasional readers to turn them into loyal readers and subscribers. Successful trending stories run the gamut from breaking sports-related news to “5 things to know” explainer stories about trendingtopics.

This reporter is also expected to have the range to handle breaking news coverage and quick-turn enterprise. Previous experience as a reporter or content producer and video editing skills are a plus. Athens is a growing college town that is home to a vibrant sports, arts and entertainment scene and a large community of young professionals living downtown.

The Athens Banner-Herald is an award-winning publication with a focus on digital platforms. We reach readers across the nation with our award-winning OnlineAthens.com website as well as through USA Today and other network properties.