AI-Assisted Reporter

Newsquest in Essex is seeking an AI-assisted reporter to join our team and help us expand our use of AI at the Echo, covering Basildon and Southend.

The successful candidate will be at the forefront of a new era in journalism, utilising AI technology to create local and hyper-local content for the Echo, while also applying their traditional journalism skill.

We are also keen to hear from candidates for the Gazette based in Colchester.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about journalism and the potential for AI to contribute to the way we produce and consume news, without losing sight of the importance of quality reporting and writing.

As an AI-assisted reporter, you will have the opportunity to develop your news and technical skills, including learning how to manage and utilise AI technology. The ideal candidate will have experience working in a role with the core aim of producing high-quality content to drive large digital audiences.

Key Responsibilities

Work with AI systems to help write news articles, maintaining quality and authenticity.
Ensure all content meets legal and ethical standards, including media law, plagiarism, privacy, and accuracy.
Source stories and ideas from a range of sources, proactively building a news list of high-quality, engaging digital content.
Identify and deliver new areas of coverage and story types that will resonate with our audience.
Efficiently upload and manage stories, using AI tools to streamline processes without compromising quality.
Contribute to the development of AI technology by monitoring AI-generated content and identifying areas for improvement.
Collaborate with editorial teams to integrate AI-generated content into newsrooms.
Train other reporters in the use of AI technology.
Stay up to date with industry trends and best practices related to AI and journalism.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

NCTJ diploma or equivalent.
Excellent writing and editing skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
Strong understanding of journalistic principles and practices.
Excellent working knowledge of relevant media law and adherence to the Editors’ Code of Conduct.
Creativity and innovation, with a willingness to experiment with new approaches and techniques.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment and manage multiple priorities.
Ability to analyse data and generate insights to inform content decisions.
Experience crafting social media posts to promote stories and drive engagement.
Ability to build digital audiences and social media following.
Experience using analytics to identify audience preferences and inform coverage.
Collaborative skills to share ideas and best practices with the wider AI-assisted reporting team.
Keen news sense and understanding of audience needs.
Knowledge of SEO and its importance to digital journalism.
High level of organisation.

Benefits

Competitive salary
Contributory pension
Perks and discounts with numerous retailers and organisations
Opportunities for team building and training days
25 days’ paid holiday, plus statutory bank holidays
An extra day off on your birthday
Holiday purchase scheme
Structured career progression, ongoing training, and personal performance reviews
Discount vouchers
Discounted gym membership
Cycle to Work scheme
Mental health support via Lifeworks
Eye test vouchers, plus £50 towards the cost of new glasses
Annual volunteer or charity day
Staff referral scheme

Newsquest Media Group is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all community sections regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. Our recruitment process will consist of various stages and activities. As part of our commitment to fairness to all applicants, we will take into account any adjustments that could help you.