Breaking News Reporter
About the position The Houston Chronicle is looking for a sharp journalist who thrives in the urgency of breaking news. This role requires speed, strong instincts, and the ability to anticipate what’s coming next. We’re seeking a reporter who can spot a story before it peaks, identify trends across search and social platforms, and turn that insight into timely, essential coverage for Houston readers. This is a core role in our newsroom, covering everything from public safety and extreme weather to major cultural moments and high-interest conversations across the region. The right candidate is competitive, quick on their feet, and motivated to own the biggest story of the day — delivering clear, accurate reporting with strong follow-through.
Responsibilities
- Jump on breaking news quickly, delivering fast, accurate initial reports and continuous updates as stories evolve
- Identify emerging and trending stories across search and social platforms, including Google, Reddit, X, and Facebook
- Own high-interest stories and develop angles that distinguish our coverage from competitors
- Collaborate closely with editors, visuals teams and audience teams to maximize reach and impact
- Tell stories across formats, contributing video, photos, and other visual elements from the field as part of breaking coverage
- Write with speed and precision, crafting clear, compelling and search-friendly headlines
- Contribute to follow-up reporting that adds depth, accountability, and new information
Requirements
- At least 3 years of reporting experience, ideally in a fast-paced breaking news environment
- Demonstrates strong news judgment and the ability to prioritize what matters most to readers
- Has a digital-first mindset, with a deep understanding of search, social trends, and audience behavior
- Writes clearly and efficiently, with a strong command of AP style and SEO best practices
- Can juggle multiple stories under pressure and adapt quickly as news evolves
- Is comfortable working flexible hours, including nights and weekends
Nice-to-haves
- Has experience working with public records, court documents, or data sources
Benefits
- Pulitzer Prize-winning journalism
- Content and marketing solutions across two of Houston’s largest websites — HoustonChronicle.com and Chron.com
- Magazine, television and newspaper brands
- Innovative business solutions
- Investing in new and innovative ways to tell stories – growing newsrooms, diversifying tools, evolving platforms
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