Trending Writer Job at MBO Partners in Washington

OverviewWe are seeking an experienced Trending Writer to support a fast-paced digital newsroom environment focused on timely, high-interest content. This role is ideal for a strong general-assignment writer with excellent news judgment who can identify trending stories, report quickly, and produce polished, engaging content on tight deadlines. The ideal contractor is comfortable covering a wide range of topics including entertainment, health, finance, and lifestyle and thrives in an environment that values speed, accuracy, editorial standards, and adaptability.Availability required for daily 9:30 AM ET meeting and weekly Thursday 2:00 PM ET meeting.Key ResponsibilitiesIdentify trending news stories and emerging topics relevant to a broad consumer audiencePitch timely story ideas based on news cycles, cultural moments, and audience interestReport and write original articles on quick turnaround timelines (typically within 24–48 hours)Conduct basic reporting, including interviewing sources, contacting companies, and confirming factsWrite clear, engaging articles typically ranging from 500–1,000 wordsCollaborate with editors across multiple newsroom teams depending on the subject matterPublish and update content using a content management system (CMS)Navigate and manage content workflows and approvals within a structured publishing environmentAdhere to editorial standards, including AP style and internal style guidelinesParticipate in required editorial meetings, including a daily morning meeting and weekly staff meetingsFast, responsive writing cadence aligned with daily news cyclesAbility to produce approximately one story per day during peak periods (with flexibility based on news volume)Focus on clear, accessible reporting rather than deep investigative journalismStrong emphasis on accuracy, clarity, and audience relevanceRequired Qualifications5+ years of professional writing and reporting experience, ideally within a major media, digital, or editorial organizationDemonstrated ability to produce high-quality content on tight deadlinesStrong general-assignment reporting skills across multiple topic areasProven experience interviewing sources and conducting basic media outreachExcellent writing, editing, and headline-writing skillsFamiliarity with AP style and adherence to editorial standardsExperience working in a content management system (CMS)Comfort learning and working within complex publishing and workflow systemsAbility to work independently in a remote environment while collaborating cross-functionallyPreferred / Nice-to-Have QualificationsExperience covering a variety of beats (e.g., entertainment, health, finance, lifestyle)Familiarity with content planning or tracking tools (e.g., Workfront or similar systems)Background writing for large, consumer-focused audiencesStrong editorial judgment and a "nose for news"Eligibility RequirementsLegal authorization to work in the U.S. is required.As a contractor, including remote contractors, you may be required to complete a background check.As a contractor, you will be paid for the time you work; this does not include paid time off (PTO) or holidays. If you participate in our Payroll Services (W2) engagement, you may be eligible for Paid Sick Leave (PSL), depending on your work location and state-specific regulations.J-18808-Ljbffr