Gannett is hiring: AI-Assisted Sports Reporter in McLean

The USA TODAY NETWORK is seeking a dynamic and tech-savvy AI-Assisted Sports Reporter to help usher the nation's largest media chain into the future.

The successful candidate will be at the forefront of a new era in journalism, utilizing AI technology to create content for our sports brands, while applying traditional journalism skills and the highest reporting standards in the industry.

This role is ideal for someone raring to be part of a cutting-edge, winning team that blends human reporting with AI tools to storify data, automate content and create new reader experiences without losing sight of quality and our responsibility to create connections to the communities we serve.

A strong interest in machine-learning and automation tools is required in this fully remote position, based anywhere except Alaska & Hawaii.

The USA TODAY Network believes in the enduring role of human journalists, and our commitment to harness technology builds on our commitment to serve readers better than any media company in the world. AI tools create time and resources for journalists to focus on the irreplaceable work of interviewing, beat development and watchdogging the powerful.

In this role, you will develop the reporting and technical skills to become a whiz with AI technology. A strong understanding of sports - from high schools to colleges to the pros - is required to maximize impact and readership.

This is not a beat-reporting position and does not require travel or face-to-face interviews, but the work will create content that helps drive engagement across the USA TODAY Network's brands, including USA TODAY and hundreds of local properties across the nation.

The ideal candidate will have basic journalism and phone/videoconference interview skills, a strong work ethic, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment. You will be responsible for turning around multiple stories a day, ensuring our sports readers stay informed.

Responsibilities

• Utilize AI tools and data to generate sports content that goes beyond the box score or traditional beats, applying judgment as a journalist to ensure accuracy, clarity and high standards.
• Conduct interviews and gather information from various sources to enrich AI-generated content/experiences.
• Collaborate with editors and other team members across USA TODAY Network to ensure timely, accurate reporting.
• Continuously learn and implement AI technologies to enhance reporting efficiency and meet or exceed productivity expectations.
• Mine for new data, including in high school sports.
• Maintain Gannett's high standard of journalistic integrity and ethical reporting.
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of journalistic principles and practices and a working knowledge of media law.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or master's degree in journalism or any other subject or an equivalent combination education and experience.
• 2+ years of journalism experience, including high-volume work that targets mass audiences.
• Strong understanding of journalistic principles and practices.
• Excellent working knowledge of relevant media law and adherence to the Editors' Code of Conduct are vital to fulfilling the functions of the role.
• Creativity and innovation, with a willingness to experiment with new approaches and techniques.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment and manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Basic interview skills, with experience in a newsroom or similar environment.
• Strong writing and editing abilities, with attention to detail.
• Familiarity with AI tools and an eagerness to learn and use new technologies.
• Excellent time management skills and the ability to meet tight deadlines.
• A proactive, self-motivated attitude with a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Be the ultimate team player.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• to work with cutting-edge AI technology in a journalistic setting.
• A collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Continuous learning and professional development opportunities.
• The chance to be at the forefront of the evolving media landscape.

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:

• Your resume - one to two pages.
• A cover letter that highlights your experience with journalism and any AI tools you have used.
• Links to a portfolio of writing samples. Show us what you've produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role.

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.

The hourly rate for this role will range between $21.64 and $38.70. 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.