At a Glance
- Tasks: Source and create compelling local news stories using AI tools.
- Company: Join The Northern Echo, a leading news organisation in Teesside.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, career progression, and wellness perks.
- Other info: Dynamic newsroom environment with opportunities for growth and learning.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of journalism, blending traditional skills with AI innovation.
- Qualifications: Strong news sense and passion for journalism; NCTJ trainees welcome.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 € per year.
Application Deadline: 24 April 2026
Department: Editorial
Location: Darlington
Are you an ambitious reporter with a keen eye for a great story anxious to make your mark on the cutting edge? If so, we have a rare chance for you to join The Northern Echo team of news journalists - using artificial intelligence tools to turbocharge your journalism. Working across communities across Teesside in some of the busiest news patches in the country, the successful candidate will use a variety of bespoke tools to create impactful journalism and deliver first-class digital content for our ever-growing online audiences.
You will be at the forefront of a new era in journalism, utilising AI technology to create local, and hyper‑local content for The Northern Echo, while also applying traditional journalism skills and news sense and working as part of the team at the Darlington head office. This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about journalism and the potential for AI to contribute to the way we produce and consume news, without losing sight of the importance of quality reporting and writing.
It is a proactive role that requires a keen news sense and innate understanding of what makes a strong story and what audiences want to read across a whole range of platforms. You will have the opportunity to develop your news and technical skills, including learning how to manage and utilise AI technology effectively while employing your core journalistic skills to the sourcing, selection, angle and presentation of your digital content. A whole host of audience and content analytics will aid you in refining and perfecting your content to meet the needs of audiences and drive growth. You’ll play a key role in ensuring that our articles meet the highest standards of accuracy, information, and compliance with media law, plagiarism, and privacy, utilising your journalistic expertise. Outstanding trainees (with NCTJ prelims) will be considered.
Key Responsibilities
- Source, research and produce compelling local and hyper‑local news stories for digital platforms
- Use AI-enabled tools to enhance story discovery, content creation and audience engagement
- Write accurate, engaging and timely articles that resonate with online audiences
- Monitor and respond to breaking news across Teesside and the wider Northern Echo patch
- Work closely with colleagues in the Darlington newsroom to contribute to daily and long‑term coverage
- Apply audience data and analytics to shape content decisions and drive readership growth
- Ensure all content complies with media law, ethical standards, privacy requirements and plagiarism rules
- Continuously develop technical and journalistic skills to support evolving newsroom practices
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Strong news sense with the ability to identify stories that matter to local audiences
- Passion for journalism and curiosity about the role of AI in modern news production
- Excellent written English and the ability to write clearly, accurately and engagingly
- Understanding of digital journalism and publishing across multiple platforms
- Willingness to learn and adapt to new technology and newsroom tools
- Awareness of media law, accuracy, compliance and ethical reporting standards
- Ability to work proactively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
- NCTJ-qualified or working towards qualifications (trainees with prelims welcomed)
Benefits
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays + your birthday off
- Holiday buy scheme for extra flexibility
- Structured career progression & ongoing training
- Pension plan
- Employee Helpline counselling and advice
- Perks & discounts including: Gym membership, Cycle to Work scheme, Eye care, Retail discounts
- Team building days & annual volunteer charity day
Reporter employer: Newsquest Media Group
The Northern Echo is an exceptional employer for aspiring reporters, offering a dynamic work environment in Darlington where innovation meets tradition. With a strong focus on employee growth through structured career progression and ongoing training, you will have the opportunity to harness cutting-edge AI tools while honing your journalistic skills. Enjoy a supportive culture that values work-life balance, with generous holiday allowances, wellness perks, and team-building activities, making it an ideal place for passionate journalists eager to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Reporter
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Connect with journalists and media professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Join relevant groups and engage in discussions to showcase your passion for journalism and AI.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio of your best work, including articles that highlight your ability to use AI tools. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow news about AI in journalism and be ready to discuss how it can enhance storytelling. This shows you're proactive and genuinely interested in the future of the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are enthusiastic about joining our team at The Northern Echo.
We think you need these skills to ace Reporter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Journalism:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for journalism shine through! Share your experiences and what drives you to tell stories that matter. We want to see your unique voice and perspective.
Highlight Your Tech Savvy:Since we’re all about using AI tools to enhance journalism, make sure to mention any experience you have with technology in your application. Whether it’s using digital platforms or analytics, show us how you can leverage tech to create compelling content.
Tailor Your Writing Samples:Include writing samples that reflect the type of local and hyper-local stories we cover. Make them engaging and relevant to our audience in Teesside. This is your chance to showcase your ability to connect with readers!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Newsquest Media Group
✨Know Your Stories
Before the interview, brush up on local news stories that have made headlines recently. Be ready to discuss what makes them compelling and how you would approach them differently. This shows your passion for journalism and your understanding of what resonates with local audiences.
✨Familiarise Yourself with AI Tools
Since the role involves using AI technology, take some time to research and understand the AI tools commonly used in journalism today. Mention any relevant experience you have with these tools during the interview to demonstrate your readiness to embrace new technology.
✨Showcase Your Writing Skills
Prepare a portfolio of your best writing samples that highlight your ability to create engaging and accurate content. Be ready to discuss your writing process and how you ensure compliance with media law and ethical standards in your work.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the team dynamics, the editorial direction of The Northern Echo, or how they envision the integration of AI in their reporting. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
