The Herald News is hiring a growth and development reporter.

The Herald News, heraldnews.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking a curious, imaginative and digitally savvy journalist to be outgrowth and development reporter covering Greater Fall River. As the long-promised commuter rail to Boston is set to be completed this summer and the city’s waterfront is getting a major make over as part of a roadwork project that’s opening up new land to develop, Greater Fall River is becoming one of the hottest places to live in the state. 

The reporter will focus on all types of commercial and residential development issues as well as the real estate market. They will be asked to look at housing, redevelopment, new and existing businesses, permitting, and zoning in a way that engages our audience and tells readers why these stories are important to them.

If you’re the type of reporter whose curiosity unearths an interesting story behind a seemingly routine zoning or planning board agenda item, then this job is for you. 

This job requires an understanding of social media platforms, Google Trends, audience metrics and SEO techniques; quick, tight, lively writing; and a competitive mindset.

Previous experience as a reporter is required as are a driver's license and reliable transportation.

Responsibilities:

• Research, report and produce accurate, compelling content that informs and engages readers.
• Is passionate and enthusiastic about news, developing a beat and becoming a local authority on development. 
• Be a curious, assertive, and self-starting journalist.
• Capitalize on live, breaking and trending moments by creating quick-turn-around content for social media and other digital platforms.
• Use sites such as Google Trends, DataMiner and other search tools to mine story ideas from social media and news organizations.
• Be proficient on the latest social media tools and trends, specifically on X, Facebook, and Instagram
• Produce content in alternative forms (listicles, Q&As, narratives, video) that are tailored to the right platform (mobile, desktop, social media) to best reach the target audience.
• Use real-time metrics to respond to user demand and reader interest.
• Work collaboratively as part of a team with other reporters and editors. Flexibility to fill in on other beats to assist in coverage of breaking news and other events.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's or master’s in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least two years of professional journalism experience.
• High-level writing, communication and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Understanding of AP style, reporting ethics and sourcing.

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:

• Your resume – one to two pages.
• A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
• 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.

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