Trending Sports Writer (SEC/Big Ten)

The USA TODAY Network is seeking an SEC/Big Ten Trending Sports Writer to contribute to a fast-paced new initiative spearheaded by the nation's largest newspaper chain. The ideal candidate will be a highly productive writer who can quickly respond to news and developments in the Big Ten and Southeastern Conference -- the epicenters of college athletics -- and play an integral role in increasing the visibility of local domains across 25+ properties in the Network, especially on search and social.

This hourly position requires a proven ability to write with precision, information and, when appropriate, flair. It also demands a strong understanding of SEO best practices and optimization and a knack for identifying the latest developments in college sports popular culture. The ability to write clean copy, generate ideas and be a willing team member is a must.

Night and weekend work will be required. This is a remote job, which means staying on task is an integral aspect of the role.

Responsibilities:

Create smart, thoughtful, engaging, content in a variety of formats to rapidly grow audience.
Work closely with direct editor and site editors to avoid duplication and ensure streamlining needs.
Master best practices for maximum reach on search / social and commit to getting content to top of Google carousels.
Stay on front lines of what's buzzing in Big Ten and SEC to disseminate quick responses on trending topics.
Track performance and be comfortable in an environment of constant adjustment to reach performance goals.
Display creativity in everything from developing fresh content to writing SEO-friendly headlines to sharing content socially to having an eye for images and video.
Own the opportunity to execute strategy, make massive audience gains and work in a fast-moving journalism environment.

Requirements:

Bachelor's or master’s degree in communications, journalism, marketing or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
1-3 years’ experience as a sports journalist, with focus on fast-paced digital content and multimedia platforms.
Understanding of various news and information content management systems.
A history of collaboration, innovation and goal achievement.
Proven history of maximizing SEO opportunity by anticipating news and researching trends
Strong social media skills.
Ability to write with accuracy and precision.
Excellent communication and time-management skills.
Approachability, personal charisma and a commitment to staff.
Understanding of the changing sports media landscape and ability to adapt strategies that address continually changing market and consumer needs and desires.
Strong competitive instincts and intellectual curiosity.

How to Apply:

We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don’t limit your upload to a resume; show us what you’ve done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order:

1. Your resume – one to two pages.

2. A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.

3. Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what you’ve produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role.

It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.