Public Trust Reporter

The Daily Record in Wooster, Ohio, is seeking a public trust reporter to cover the long‑term forces shaping Holmes and Wayne counties, producing accountability journalism where policy, culture, economy and environment intersect. The beat focuses on how today’s local decisions — about land use, infrastructure, workforce development, health access and growth — will define the region’s future. Coverage examines tensions such as aging populations versus labor demand, farmland preservation versus housing needs, climate and infrastructure pressures, broadband access and competing visions for rural and small‑city communities.   Across both counties, reporting connects planning documents and budget decisions to residents’ lived experiences. Video reporting and community engagement are central to how this work reaches and serves the communities. This position is based in or near Wooster, Ohio, the civic, educational and economic center of Wayne County. It is home to a university, a diverse manufacturing base and an active downtown, located about 35 miles southwest of Akron. This role is well‑suited to a reporter who wants to build a deep beat and hold institutions accountable over time.   Responsibilities: Creates storytelling that accurately informs, entertains and engages specific audiences and platforms through analytics research. Collaborates with editors and frontline journalists locally and across the USA Today Network. Works toward becoming the community’s leading voice in areas of expertise. Promotes personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand. Reports quickly, clearly and accurately and delivers news via articles, video, social media or any other methods available to reach our audiences. Use analytics to inform story choices and shape beat strategies. Cultivates a beat. Has a genuine interest in people and ability to build trust. Writes and/or produces multimedia content that appeals to key audience targets and maximizes user experience on digital and social platforms to reach readers where they spend their time and attention. Experiment with new ways of informing and engaging audiences on social platforms and be proficient in using alternate story forms. Experience using AI and automation to support journalism, and a willingness to experiment with new formats and platforms, is expected. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications or a related field, or equivalent experience Minimum three years of professional newsroom or reporting experience Strong command of grammar, style and copy editing Experience in a digital‑first newsroom, including use of analytics to guide coverage Ability to report quickly, clearly and accurately in a deadline‑driven environment Demonstrated ability to cultivate and sustain a reporting beat Proficiency using social platforms such as X, Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat Solid understanding of journalism ethics and sourcing Willingness to experiment with new tools and storytelling formats, including responsible use of AI Strong collaboration skills Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and minimum state‑required liability insurance 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 outlines how you would approach the job. Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. 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.   #Newsgnt #LI-CB1   The hourly rate for this role will range between $20.67 and $32.30.  Base compensation is reflective of many factors, including, but not limited to, the market in which one lives/works, individual education level, skills, certifications and experience. Note: variable compensation is not reflected in these figures and based on the role, may be applicable.