Gannett | USA TODAY NETWORK is hiring: Breaking News/Public Safety Reporter in D

Join to apply for the Breaking News/Public Safety Reporter role at Gannett | USA TODAY NETWORK.

The Des Moines Register is seeking a breaking news reporter to cover crime, fires, traffic accidents, weather disasters and other spot news in central Iowa, with travel across Iowa for big news. This reporter may handle some courts coverage and will be adept at taking photos and video and filing quickly across platforms (mobile, desktop, social media).

Responsibilities include developing enterprise and investigative work, landing exclusive interviews, and analyzing crime trends. The role may also include breaking news coverage on other beats such as government and business, and handling general assignments. Clear, fast writing and the ability to turn breaking news into readable storytelling are essential. Source development will be critical, including contact with first responders, police, judges, court staff and community residents. You will write compelling headlines and apply SEO best practices to draw readers.

While days and hours can vary, shifts are generally evenings and one weekend shift. Des Moines is a growing state capital city with a vibrant arts and entertainment scene and a large community of young professionals living downtown. The Des Moines Register is a 17-time Pulitzer Prize winner and reaches readers across the state via daily editions, the DesMoinesRegister.com website and nondaily publications.

In This Role, You Will

• Research, report and produce compelling content that informs and engages readers.
• Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
• Produce watchdog journalism that leads to change.
• Use live video to spotlight breaking news and high-interest events.
• Produce content in alternative forms (listicles, Q&As, narratives, photo galleries, video) tailored to the platform to reach the audience.
• Use real-time metrics to respond to user demand and reader interest.

Here's What You Need

• Bachelor's or master’s in communications, journalism, marketing or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Prior professional journalism experience or significant internship experience.
• High-level writing, communication and time management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work well on deadline.
• Ability to shoot photos and video and file quickly across platforms: mobile, desktop and social media.
• Ability to produce content that is clean, accurate and publication ready.
• Comfort with using social media to enhance reporting and promote stories.
• Understanding of reporting ethics and sourcing.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and minimum liability insurance as required by state law.

Application Instructions

We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, upload a single document in PDF format that includes: your resume (1–2 pages), a cover letter outlining how you would approach the job, and links to 5–10 online samples of your work. These items should be assembled into one document and uploaded to ensure consideration.

Gannett Co., Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants without discrimination. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process, please contact Recruit@gannett.com.