Community News Reporter
Tampa Bay Times, Tampa, FL, United States
Position Summary
Tampa Bay Newspapers Inc. publishes award-winning weekly newspapers serving Pasco, Pinellas, Hernando, and Hillsborough counties. As an independent affiliate of the Tampa Bay Times, we are committed to strong local journalism and community engagement.
Tampa Bay Newspapers Inc. is seeking a full-time Staff Writer to anchor coverage for new monthly community publications in Manatee County. This journalist will play a central role in shaping local news coverage, building community relationships, and producing compelling stories for both print and digital platforms.
The ideal candidate is organized, self-motivated, and passionate about local journalism, with the ability to cover government, development, business, schools, and community news. This role requires consistent in-person engagement in Manatee County.
Responsibilities
Write three to five stories per week for print and digital platforms
Lead coverage planning for three monthly print editions
Collaborate with editors and freelancers to coordinate community coverage
Produce weekly newsletters and contribute to social media updates
Exercise strong news judgment in selecting and prioritizing stories
Work with designers to produce engaging, reader-friendly publications
Maintain consistent digital content flow to websites and newsletters
Required Skills & Qualifications
Minimum two years of experience as a writer or editor (recent graduates considered)
College degree in journalism preferred
Knowledge of AP style and strong grammar skills
Experience covering local government or community news preferred
Familiarity with website CMS and newsletter publishing platforms
Photography, multimedia, or InDesign skills are a plus
Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional weekends
Residency in Manatee County or willingness to travel there weekly
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Tampa Bay Newspapers Inc. is seeking a full-time Staff Writer to anchor coverage for new monthly community publications in Manatee County. This journalist will play a central role in shaping local news coverage, building community relationships, and producing compelling stories for both print and digital platforms.
The ideal candidate is organized, self-motivated, and passionate about local journalism, with the ability to cover government, development, business, schools, and community news. This role requires consistent in-person engagement in Manatee County.
Responsibilities
Write three to five stories per week for print and digital platforms
Lead coverage planning for three monthly print editions
Collaborate with editors and freelancers to coordinate community coverage
Produce weekly newsletters and contribute to social media updates
Exercise strong news judgment in selecting and prioritizing stories
Work with designers to produce engaging, reader-friendly publications
Maintain consistent digital content flow to websites and newsletters
Required Skills & Qualifications
Minimum two years of experience as a writer or editor (recent graduates considered)
College degree in journalism preferred
Knowledge of AP style and strong grammar skills
Experience covering local government or community news preferred
Familiarity with website CMS and newsletter publishing platforms
Photography, multimedia, or InDesign skills are a plus
Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional weekends
Residency in Manatee County or willingness to travel there weekly
#J-18808-Ljbffr