Journalist in Belfast

Journalist in Belfast

Belfast Full-Time 28800 - 42000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Source and break local news stories while creating engaging digital content.
  • Company: Join the Belfast Telegraph, a leading news outlet with a focus on local stories.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 35 days annual leave, hybrid working, and career growth opportunities.
  • Other info: Flexible working arrangements available to suit your lifestyle.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in your community through innovative storytelling and journalism.
  • Qualifications: 2+ years of journalism experience and strong digital content skills required.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 42000 £ per year.

Location: Belfast Telegraph House (hybrid working)

Type: Permanent, full-time role (open to part-time)

At Mediahuis we’re excited to be growing the Belfast Telegraph’s local news offering across Northern Ireland. We’re hiring for multiple Journalists to cover the following areas:

  • North Belfast & Newtownabbey
  • West Belfast & Lisburn
  • East & South Belfast
  • North Down
  • Armagh & Mid-Down

Let us know your preferred location(s) when you apply; we’ll do our best to match you with the hub that’s right for you. We are open to applications on a full-time or part-time basis and are happy to discuss flexible working arrangements.

As a Journalist, you will source, break, and explain stories for belfasttelegraph.co.uk. The role combines digital local news reporting with engaging, digital-first storytelling. This includes short-form video, live updates, social posts, explainers, interactive features, and occasional audio or podcast contributions. You’ll work to fast-paced digital deadlines, publish iteratively, and focus on optimising content to meet audience needs.

Key Responsibilities

  1. Newsgathering
    • Build and maintain a contact network across your area
    • Consistently break exclusive stories; file fast, accurate updates and in-depth analysis as stories evolve
    • Proactively plan diary items, flag upcoming events, and pitch distinctive angles that serve local audiences
  2. Digital storytelling
    • Create up-to-date, balanced, engaging multimedia content, with iterative updates for web/app
    • Shoot, script, edit, and publish video packages; capture social-first clips; ensure consistent style and tone
    • Contribute to podcasts
    • Use social platforms to promote stories, engage communities, and drive subscribers
  3. Hyperlocal Community Focus
    • Surface neighbourhood-level issues (roads, schools, housing, amenities, policing, health access), celebrate local people and groups
    • Deliver engaging lifestyle coverage (food, drink, culture, entertainment, local trends)
    • Respond rapidly to breaking local news, filing updates and explainers that help residents make sense of events
  4. Standards & Governance
    • Uphold the Mediahuis Editorial Code of Practice and relevant legal/professional codes; ensure high levels of accuracy, fairness, and integrity

Experience & Qualifications

  • Proven experience breaking stories under deadline pressure; strong news judgment
  • At least 2 years’ journalism experience preferred
  • Knowledge of issues affecting your area
  • Ability to produce video and social content to newsroom standards

Skills & Attributes

  • Digital-first mindset; comfortable with live publishing, iterative updates, and social packaging
  • Excellent writing, analysis, and headline craft
  • Strong contact-building and community rapport
  • Video storytelling (shooting, scripting, editing) and audio basics; confident on-camera/voice a plus
  • Collaborative, calm under pressure, and deadline-driven

Benefits

From supportive working options and wellbeing initiatives, to learning opportunities and career growth, Mediahuis is a place where you can do meaningful work and thrive. These are just a few of the benefits our team members receive:

  • Minimum of 35 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
  • Company Pension Contribution
  • Bike to Work Scheme
  • Income Protection
  • Health & Wellness events
  • Employee Assistance Programme
  • Enhanced Maternity & Paternity Leave
  • Hybrid working schedule
  • Life Assurance
  • Educational Assistance

For further information and to submit your application, click the apply icon.

Journalist in Belfast employer: Mediahuis

At Mediahuis, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment for Journalists at our Belfast Telegraph House. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, flexible working arrangements, and ample opportunities for professional growth, we empower our team to produce impactful local news while enjoying a generous benefits package that includes 35 days of annual leave and educational assistance. Join us in making a difference in the community through engaging storytelling and innovative digital content.
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Contact Detail:

Mediahuis Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Journalist in Belfast

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with local journalists, editors, and community leaders. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on social media. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream job!

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best work, including articles, videos, and any multimedia content you've produced. Make sure it’s easily accessible online, so potential employers can see what you bring to the table.

✨Tip Number 3

Stay updated on local news and trends. Follow local stories, engage with your community, and be ready to pitch unique angles that resonate with your audience. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your passion for the role.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, let us know your preferred location when you apply, and we’ll do our best to match you with the perfect hub. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!

We think you need these skills to ace Journalist in Belfast

Newsgathering
Digital Storytelling
Multimedia Content Creation
Video Production
Social Media Engagement
Community Rapport Building
Deadline Management
Analytical Skills
Writing Skills
Editorial Standards Compliance
Local News Knowledge
Collaborative Skills
Calm Under Pressure

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Storytelling Skills: As a journalist, your ability to tell a compelling story is key. Make sure your application showcases your writing style and creativity. Include examples of your best work that highlight your digital storytelling skills, especially if they involve multimedia content.

Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific areas you want to cover, like North Belfast or Armagh. Mention your knowledge of local issues and how you can contribute to the Belfast Telegraph’s mission.

Highlight Your Digital Savvy: We’re looking for a digital-first mindset, so make sure to mention any experience you have with social media, video production, or live updates. Show us how you’ve engaged communities online and driven audience interaction in your previous roles.

Keep It Professional Yet Personal: While we want to see your professional side, don’t forget to let your personality shine through! A touch of authenticity can make your application stand out. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can connect with the community, so show us why you’re passionate about local journalism.

How to prepare for a job interview at Mediahuis

✨Know Your Local News

Before the interview, brush up on the latest news stories in your preferred area. Being able to discuss recent events and local issues will show your passion for journalism and your understanding of the community.

✨Showcase Your Digital Skills

Since the role focuses on digital storytelling, be prepared to discuss your experience with multimedia content. Bring examples of your work, like video packages or social media posts, to demonstrate your digital-first mindset.

✨Prepare for Fast-Paced Questions

Expect questions that test your ability to think on your feet. Practice responding to hypothetical scenarios about breaking news or community issues, as this will highlight your news judgment and quick thinking under pressure.

✨Engage with the Interviewers

Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team, their approach to local news, and how they engage with the community. This shows your interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.

Journalist in Belfast
Mediahuis
Location: Belfast
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