Politics​/watchdog​/crime Reporter

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The St. Cloud Times (a USA TODAY Co. paper) is looking for a politics/watchdog/crime reporter committed to discovering stories and finding answers. The candidate should have a bachelor’s degree, be well‑versed in reporting, and be able to take pictures and short videos. They must be comfortable interviewing politicians and residents, explaining local political issues in clear language, and producing breaking news quickly and accurately.

This position is based in St. Cloud, Minnesota, a vibrant community on the Mississippi River about one hour from the Twin Cities. St. Cloud’s metro‑area population is about 206,000, with the Twin Cities adding a total of 3.7 million residents.

• Research, report, and produce compelling content that grows a following by informing and engaging readers.
• Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues and produce watchdog journalism that leads to change.
• Use real‑time metrics to respond to user demand and reader interest.
• Work with newsroom leaders to shape storytelling to meet audience needs on appropriate platforms.
• Contribute to the community’s greater good through impactful journalism.
• Use video to spotlight breaking news and high‑interest events.

• Bachelor's degree.
• 1‑4 years of daily newsroom experience.
• High‑level writing, communication, and time‑management skills.
• Familiarity with AI and automation and experience using these tools to enhance journalism.
• Demonstrated ability to work well on deadline.
• A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

We are eager to learn more about you. When you apply, don’t limit your upload to a resume; show us what you’ve done. Please include a single document file that contains the following, in this order.

• Your resume (1‑2 pages)
• A cover letter outlining how you would approach the job.
• Links to 3‑5 online samples of your work.

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.

USA TODAY Co., Inc. is a proud equal‑opportunity employer committed to building and maintaining a diverse workforce. We will consider all qualified applicants for employment and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, citizenship status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy status, education, genetic characteristics, political affiliation, military or veteran status, or other classifications protected by applicable federal, state, and local laws in the jurisdictions where USA TODAY Co.

employs employees. We will provide reasonable accommodation to applicants who require it. Applicants must be authorized to work in the applicable location. Applications from outside these regions will be removed from our system after submission.