Breaking News Writer (Freelance)

EOE Statement
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Description

Atlanta Black Star is seeking experienced Freelance Breaking News Writers to join our fast-paced digital newsroom.

This role is designed for journalists who live and breathe the news cycle. The ideal candidate is a relentless consumer of news, has exceptional reporting instincts, thrives under tight deadlines, and can quickly identify, research, verify, and develop compelling stories across a wide range of topics.

Our breaking news writers cover everything from politics, crime, culture, entertainment, celebrity, social issues, viral moments, and human interest stories to major national and international developments. No two days are the same.

The successful candidate understands that speed matters, but accuracy matters more. They know how to move quickly, dig deeper than competing outlets, uncover key details others miss, and transform developing news into engaging stories that readers cannot stop reading.

What We're Looking For
A genuine news junkie who follows the news throughout the day across multiple platforms and sources
Strong reporting instincts and the ability to identify stories before they become widely reported
Exceptional research and verification skills
Ability to quickly understand complex situations and explain them clearly to readers
Strong storytelling ability that keeps readers engaged from the headline through the final paragraph
Comfort covering a wide range of topics and adapting quickly to new subject matter
Ability to work independently while maintaining speed, accuracy, and editorial standards
Strong understanding of digital publishing, audience behavior, and content performance
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Monitor breaking news, social platforms, public records, competitor coverage, and emerging conversations throughout the day
Pitch, develop, report, and write timely stories across a broad range of news topics
Produce clean, accurate, publish-ready copy with minimal editing required
Quickly gather facts from multiple sources and verify information before publication
Identify unique angles, overlooked details, and opportunities to advance developing stories
Conduct interviews by phone, email, video conference, or in person when necessary
Follow stories from initial development through subsequent updates and follow-up coverage
Collaborate with editors to develop stronger story angles, enterprise reporting opportunities, and exclusive content
Manage multiple stories simultaneously while consistently meeting deadlines
Build and maintain a network of sources that can provide tips, context, and early access to information
Analyze content performance, audience trends, and reader behavior to improve story selection and pitching strategy
Utilize CMS tools, photos, video, and supporting media to maximize engagement and reader retention
Maintain high editorial standards for accuracy, sourcing, fairness, and attribution under deadline pressure
Position Requirements

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

BA in English or Journalism preferred or equivalent in experience.
Past reporting experience required, minimum 4 years with a mainstream publication
Knowledge of AP stylebook a plus
Strong writing, reporting, and editing skills
Demonstrated ability to cover breaking news quickly and accurately
Familiarity with public records, court documents, police reports, government sources, and digital research tools
Strong understanding of SEO and digital news publishing best practices
Ability to work efficiently in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment
Unwavering journalistic integrity and ethical standards
Must have strong skills in communicating and collaborating with editors and colleagues.
A great work ethic and a can-do attitude.
Exceptional attention to detail
Self-starter, highly motivated to succeed under minimal supervision

Full-Time/Part-Time
Independent Contractor

Salary

Position
Breaking News Writer (Freelance)

Division
Atlanta Black Star

Number of Openings
4

Exempt/Non-Exempt
Non-Exempt

Hiring Manager(s)

Req Number
JOU-26-00004

Open Date
6/8/2026

Location
Atlanta Black Star

About the Organization
Diamond Diaspora Media exists at the intersection of technology and media. We publish narratives intentionally and specifically to enlighten and transform the world. Our digital news platforms Atlantablackstar.com, Theshadowleague.com, and Finurah.com are leading the way with powerful content that spans the culture, sports, news features and timely-financial news that resonates with our 15 million readers.

Come join us and let us change the world together.

This position is currently accepting applications.