Hybrid Trainee Reporter

at Newsquest Media Group

• Job title: Trainee Reporter
• Job type: Full Time
• Experience level: Entry level
• Salary: Not specified
• Degree requirement: Professional Certificate
• Location requirements: Hybrid, Bournemouth, United Kingdom

About the role

• Dynamic reporter for Bournemouth Echo engaging the community with local stories and digital storytelling. Responsible for news coverage, social media engagement, and content creation.

Responsibilities

• Produce accurate, engaging digital news stories, live blogs and features to deadline.
• Use video, audio, infographics, maps and other digital tools to tell compelling stories.
• Create and publish engaging social media content that drives reach and conversation.
• Build contacts, monitor trends and identify strong story leads through social platforms.
• Deliver accurate breaking news coverage and keep audiences informed in real time.
• Develop new story ideas and creative digital treatments that grow audience engagement.
• Build social media followings and increase digital audience numbers across your patch.
• Spot national or regional stories with local relevance and tailor them for your readers.
• Track court activity and work with court reporters to deliver strong online coverage.
• Develop contributions from colleagues and community voices for digital relevance.
• Use SEO techniques to maximise visibility and follow emerging trends.
• Use audience analytics (with guidance) to shape future coverage.
• Build strong relationships across the community and spend time on patch.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the UK, sharing ideas and best practice.

Requirements

• Strong digital reporting skills with experience writing accurate news, live blogs and features.
• Ability to work quickly, creatively, and under tight deadlines.
• Confident using video, audio, infographics and mapping tools.
• Strong understanding of social media for newsgathering and audience engagement.
• Knowledge of SEO and how to optimise stories for search.
• Ability to interpret analytics and understand reader behaviour.
• Skilled at building community contacts and identifying story leads.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• NCTJ qualification (including 100wpm shorthand) or equivalent.
• Full driving licence and access to a vehicle.
• Willingness to work shifts and weekends.

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