Freelance Breaking News Writer

EOE Statement
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Description

Atlanta Black Star has several immediate openings for Freelance Breaking News Writers. The ideal candidate will have a pulse on the major issues impacting the community, with a focus on criminal justice, social justice and human interest stories.

The ideal candidate will possess a natural curiosity and a burning desire to fill in gaps to tell highly engaging and compelling stories.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Pitch, formulate, create and test new content ideas
• Must be able to produce clean, thoroughly researched publish-ready copy with minimum supervision
• Coordinates with editors to develop stories that go beyond surface details, that accentuate unique enterprise angles, and have exclusive content
• Conduct interviews in person, by phone or via email
• Can juggle multiple stories and projects at once, demonstrates exceptional time-management skills by meeting all deadlines under extraordinary pressure
• Follow story from start to finish, expected to take ownership of stories
• Zealously develops a network of sources who provide tips, early access to information, and allow the reporter to break stories of significance
• Report breaking news, write quickly and precisely
• Scour national and international media for stories that resonate with ABS's audience
• Regularly plans, gathers, and pitches day-to-day stories or special project assignments
• Pay attention to content performance and digital trends on a daily basis to constantly adjust pitching strategy
• Utilize CMS tools, strategically select photos and videos to optimize all written content for maximum engagement, reader retention, and shareability

Position Requirements

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

• BA in English or Journalism preferred or equivalent in experience.
• Past reporting experience required, minimum 4 years with a mainstream publication
• Knowledge of AP stylebook a plus
• Displays a clear ability to develop strong, reader-focused story ideas and write about complex concepts with clarity and authority
• Demonstrated ability to be highly organized and, when warranted, manage and juggle multiple stories simultaneously
• Unwavering journalistic integrity and ethical standards
• Must have strong skills in communicating and collaborating with editors and colleagues.
• A great work ethic and a can-do attitude.
• Exceptional attention to detail
• Strong or unique social media presence a plus
• Self-starter, highly motivated to succeed under minimal supervision

Full-Time/Part-Time
Independent Contractor

Salary
Competitive Rates

Position
Freelance Breaking News Writer

Division
Atlanta Black Star

Number of Openings
5

Exempt/Non-Exempt
Non-Exempt

Hiring Manager(s)

Req Number
JOU-24-00003

Open Date
5/25/2024

Location
Atlanta Black Star

About the Organization
Diamond Diaspora Media exists at the intersection of technology and media. We publish narratives intentionally and specifically to enlighten and transform the world. Our digital news platforms Atlantablackstar.com, Theshadowleague.com, and Finurah.com are leading the way with powerful content that spans the culture, sports, news features and timely-financial news that resonates with our 15 million readers.

Come join us and let us change the world together.

This position is currently accepting applications.