First Amendment Reporting Fellowship - Indianapolis, Nashville, Phoenix, Tallahassee and Washington, DC

USA TODAY and the
USA TODAY NETWORK are seeking five talented reporters for an exciting and innovative fellowship covering First Amendment issues across the U.S. These are grant funded 3-year full-time positions.

First Amendment issues - all five of its freedoms - are in the national spotlight now. These reporters will work to highlight and explain issues related to the First Amendment and examine the impact on residents and their daily lives, countering disinformation with facts, and producing compelling journalism on what can seem like abstract concepts. The reporters will have a commitment to diverse coverage through community engagement and source building.

The writers who join our award-winning team will have a commitment to holding those in power accountable, a passion for storytelling and innovation, video and social media expertise and the ability to collaborate with colleagues in our newsrooms across the nation.

The ideal candidate produces smart, context-filled stories and other content on tight deadlines and understands the difference in writing for various platforms.

These positions are made possible thanks to the generous support of the Freedom Forum's Local Press Initiative and Journalism Funding Partners, a nonprofit that works to increase the depth, diversity and sustainability of local journalism.

The reporters will be based at The Arizona Republic, The Indianapolis Star, The Tallahassee Democrat, The Tennessean and USA TODAY.

The successful candidates will:

• Report and deliver a steady stream of news stories to a growing audience that looks to us as the definitive source of news in the region.
• Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues and produce watchdog journalism that leads to change.
• Coordinate with reporters across the USA TODAY Network on coverage of political issues, enterprise and candidates that intertwine with the First Amendment.
• Bring a digital mindset to the beat, be adept at the use of emerging platforms and tools to tell stories -- including alternative formats -- and real-time metrics to respond to audience demand and reader interest.
• Act as a public ambassador through community outreach and connect with readers through social media platforms, in-person events and other engagement.

Here's what you need:

• Bachelor's or master's degree in communications, journalism, or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Three to five years of reporting experience.
• Excellent communication and time management skills.
• Ability to produce accurate and detailed content in a competitive environment.
• Expertise with all major social media platforms.
• Video production skills a plus.
• This role requires a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.

Application Instructions

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:

It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.

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The annualized base salary for this role will range between $70,000 and $140,300. Variable compensation is not reflected in these figures and based on the role, may be applicable. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, location, and union representation, if applicable.

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