Trending News Reporter for Upstate New York
Advance Media New York, which produces content for syracuse.com, newyorkupstate.com and The Post-Standard, has an exciting opportunity for a Trending News Reporter to join our growing content team focused on Upstate New York.
We’re seeking someone who embraces emerging technology, thrives in a fast-paced environment and acts with urgency, accuracy and creativity. This role will cover a wide range of high-interest topics that matter to Upstate New Yorkers, including news, weather, travel and tourism, business and everyday issues.
The job will also include handling some clerical tasks such as new business listings, election posts and our police blotter.
This position is at the forefront of a new approach to journalism: Combining strong instincts with cutting-edge AI tools to produce timely, useful and engaging content at scale.
The ideal candidate is curious, adaptable and not afraid to use AI as a core part of their workflow.
You’ll produce a high volume of stories each day. You’ll work alongside a supportive group of reporters and editors who know Central New York and the broader Upstate New York region inside and out.
What You’ll Do
- Aggregate and write timely, accurate stories on trending topics across Upstate New York
- Use AI tools to streamline research, writing and publishing workflows
- Cover topics including weather events, travel trends, tourism, businesses and more
- Identify trending stories through social media and analytics
- Optimize headlines and content for audience engagement and search
- Assist with weekly duties related to data collection and posting.
The base salary range is $45,000 to $55,000 per year.
What We’re Looking For
- Degree in journalism, communications or equivalent experience
- Demonstrated writing skills with strong headline writing and SEO instincts
- Solid understanding of AP style and story structure
- Comfort using AI tools, or a willingness and enthusiasm to learn quickly
- Deep commitment to journalistic ethics paired with the responsible use of AI tools
- Strong news judgment and ability to verify information before publication
- Ability to work independently under deadline pressure and juggle multiple assignments
- Experience sourcing stories from social platforms and digital communities
- Interest in Upstate New York news, culture and communities
- Willingness to assist in other areas, such as election coverage and database development
Work Environment & Schedule
- Remote-friendly position. Candidates who live in Central/Upstate NY or have knowledge of the area are preferred.
- Weekly shift is Tuesday-Saturday.
Why Join Us?
You’ll gain hands-on experience with emerging AI tools while covering stories that directly impact communities across the region — from Syracuse to the Adirondacks to the Finger Lakes and beyond.
If you’re a fast, curious journalist who wants to experiment, innovate and grow in a rapidly evolving newsroom, we want to hear from you.
Skills Required
- Degree in journalism, communications or equivalent experience
- Demonstrated writing skills
- Strong headline writing and SEO instincts
- Comfort using AI tools, or a willingness and enthusiasm to learn quickly
- Ability to work independently under deadline pressure and juggle multiple assignments
- Experience sourcing stories from social platforms and digital communities
- Interest in Upstate New York news, culture and communities
What We Do
Advance Local, one of the largest media groups in the United States, operates the leading news and information companies in more than 20 cities, reaching more than 50 million people monthly with its quality journalism and community engagement.
