Breaking News Reporter

Breaking News Reporter

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.

Key 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

We’re Looking for Someone Who

• Has 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

• Has experience working with public records, court documents, or data sources (preferred)

Success is Measured By

• Breaking news coverage that leads the conversation in Houston

• Growth in audience reach and engagement, particularly from search and social
• Consistent delivery of timely, high-interest stories with strong headline performance
• Follow-up reporting that adds meaningful context and keeps audiences returning

About the Houston Chronicle:

The Houston Chronicle, recognized for its Pulitzer Prize-winning journalism, serves its 2.3 million residents with content and marketing solutions across two of Houston’s largest websites — HoustonChronicle.com and Chron.com, along with our magazine, television and newspaper brands.  Our mission is to spark conversations that inspire action to create a better Houston.  All our content and the innovative business solutions we provide invite Houstonians to join conversations about a community we’ve been committed to covering and helping prosper for more than 120 years. The community we all call home.

About Hearst Newspapers:

With 2,500 employees across the nation, HNP encompasses a network of 24 daily and 52 weekly publications, including the San Francisco Chronicle, Houston Chronicle, San Antonio Express-News and Albany Times Union, several top digital-only news and lifestyle sites, marketing services businesses, and entertainment businesses such as King Features Syndicate. 

At HNP, we are investing in new and innovative ways to tell stories – growing newsrooms, diversifying tools, evolving platforms – to support the millions of people who trust us each month to help them make decisions, take action and be inspired.  

Be a part of something bigger – your headline awaits.

Recognizing the diverse needs of our candidates, if you are interested in applying for employment and need assistance or an accommodation to use our website or regarding the application process, please contact us by email at [email protected].  Please do not use this email address to inquire about the status of applications. We will only respond to inquiries concerning requests for a reasonable accommodation through this email address.

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