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 great 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 cutting-edge AI technology.
- Qualifications: Strong news sense and passion for journalism; NCTJ qualifications preferred.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 £ per year.
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
- 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)
- 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 - The Northern Echo employer: Newsquest
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, staff can harness cutting-edge AI tools to enhance their journalism while enjoying a supportive culture that values well-being and teamwork. The benefits package, including generous holiday allowances and unique perks, ensures a fulfilling work-life balance, making it an ideal place for passionate journalists eager to make an impact in their communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Reporter - The Northern Echo
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Connect with journalists and editors on LinkedIn or Twitter. Engage with their content, share your thoughts, and don’t be shy to slide into their DMs for advice or insights about the industry.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best articles, especially those that highlight your ability to use AI tools in journalism. Make sure it’s easily accessible online, so potential employers can see what you bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated with the latest news trends and AI advancements in journalism. Follow relevant blogs, podcasts, and news outlets. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your passion for the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Reporter - The Northern Echo
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Journalism:Let us see your enthusiasm for storytelling! In your application, share what drives you to be a reporter and how you plan to use AI tools to enhance your journalism. We want to know why you're excited about this role!
Tailor Your Writing Samples:When submitting your writing samples, make sure they reflect the type of local and hyper-local stories we cover at The Northern Echo. Choose pieces that showcase your ability to engage audiences and demonstrate your news sense.
Highlight Your Tech Savvy:Since we're all about using AI in journalism, don’t forget to mention any experience you have with digital tools or analytics. Show us how you can blend traditional reporting skills with modern technology to create compelling content.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Newsquest
✨Know Your Stories
Before the interview, brush up on local news stories that have made headlines recently. Being able to discuss these will show your keen news sense and passion for journalism, which is crucial for a role at The Northern Echo.
✨Familiarise with AI Tools
Since the job involves using AI technology, take some time to research and understand how AI can enhance journalism. Mentioning specific tools or examples during your interview will demonstrate your proactive approach and 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.
✨Engage with Audience Analytics
Understanding audience data is key in this role. Familiarise yourself with how analytics can shape content decisions. During the interview, share any experiences you've had with audience engagement or data-driven storytelling to showcase your analytical skills.
