Reports to: Publisher / Executive Editor
Position Summary
Highlands Insider is a private, family-owned, independent community news publication dedicated to building community and strengthening local connections. Our publications are highly read in both print and online, with an actively engaged audience that values meaningful, hyper-local journalism.
We are seeking Reporters, Freelance Writers, Column Specialists, and Community Correspondents to contribute compelling and well-researched content that informs, inspires, and connects the residents of Putnam County, TN.
We maintain a 100% LOCAL focus—every story must be directly tied to Putnam County, TN. We do not publish external news unless it has a legitimate local connection. While our editorial approach maintains a conservative tone, we are committed to journalistic integrity, fairness, and balanced reporting that presents all sides of a story.
We also offer a certification training program for select candidates who have dreamed of becoming a writer but may not have formal experience. This is a great opportunity for aspiring journalists to develop their skills and gain real-world newsroom experience.
Roles & ResponsibilitiesReporter (Full-Time/Part-Time) Responsibilities
- Research, write, and develop well-sourced news and feature stories that are 100% local to Putnam County, TN.
- Conduct interviews with key sources, including officials, business leaders, and community members.
- Attend local meetings, events, and press conferences to gather information.
- Capture photos and multimedia content to accompany stories.
- Utilize cameras for photography, conduct on-camera interviews for video components, and use voice recorders for audio files when needed.
- Assist with organizing story assignments and newsroom planning.
- Engage with the public, answer calls, and develop community relationships.
- Stay informed about local events and trends relevant to the region.
- Meet strict deadlines and ensure timely submission of all assigned work.
Freelance Writer Responsibilities
- Write assigned or self-pitched stories, including features, business spotlights, event coverage, and human-interest pieces (also known as lifestyle news).
- Ensure all content is strictly local to Putnam County, TN and meets publication standards.
- Meet deadlines and follow editorial guidelines, including AP Style and fact-checking.
- Work independently while coordinating with the editorial team to align with publication goals.
Column Specialist Responsibilities
- Provide insightful, well-researched, and engaging content in a specialty area (e.g., business, health, food, faith, history, sports, lifestyle).
- Ensure all columns have a clear local connection to Putnam County, TN.
- Submit columns on a scheduled basis (weekly, biweekly, or monthly).
- Develop a unique voice and perspective that resonates with readers.
- Work closely with editors to ensure alignment with publication tone and direction.
- Consistently meet submission deadlines for regular columns.
Community Correspondent Responsibilities (All Areas of Putnam County, TN)
We are actively seeking Community Correspondents to provide hyper-local news and coverage from all areas of Putnam County, TN, ensuring our readers stay informed about what’s happening in their neighborhoods.
- Cover local events, community meetings, and happenings in your designated area.
- Provide news tips, human-interest stories, and feature content relevant to your town or community.
- Submit articles, photos, and updates that highlight the people, businesses, and activities that make each area unique.
- Collaborate with our editorial team to ensure stories meet quality and accuracy standards.
- Ideal for individuals who are well-connected in their communities and passionate about local storytelling.
Certification Training Program for Aspiring Writers
For select candidates who have a passion for writing but lack formal experience, Highlands Insider offers a certification training program. This program provides:
- Structured training
- Hands-on writing assignments
- Mentorship from experienced journalists
Our vetting process for this program includes reference checks, writing assessments, and research evaluations to ensure candidates have the potential, commitment, and integrity required for community journalism.
Minimum Job RequirementsEducation:
- High School Diploma required.
- Journalism degree preferred but not required.
Experience:
- Prior newsroom experience is a plus for reporters.
- Freelancers, columnists, and community correspondents should demonstrate expertise in their writing niche.
Skills & Qualifications:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong interviewing, research, and storytelling abilities.
- Ability to conduct on-camera interviews and record high-quality audio using voice recorders.
- Comfortable using a camera to capture relevant images and videos for stories.
- Ability to type quickly and accurately.
- Familiarity with AP Style and strong grammar practices.
- Strong time management and critical thinking skills.
- Comfortable using digital tools for reporting, such as social media and online research.
- Ability to consistently meet deadlines and work efficiently under pressure.
Working Conditions
- Reporters: Flexible schedule required – Some nights, weekends, and travel for assignments.
- Freelance Writers, Columnists & Community Correspondents: Remote work with flexible deadlines, depending on publication schedule.
- Fieldwork: Reporters and correspondents will spend time out of the office covering stories, including the Statehouse as needed for government reporting.
Why Join Us?
At Highlands Insider, we believe in delivering impactful, community-driven journalism that reflects the pulse of Putnam County, TN. As a family-owned, independent newspaper, we take pride in publishing 100% local content that informs, engages, and strengthens our communities.
Our commitment to "Local News Reimagined" means delivering news across multiple platforms, including:
- Print editions
- Digital news & website content
- SMS (text alerts)
- Podcasts
- YouTube & streaming platforms
Community Engagement & Outreach
We are dedicated to building relationships across Putnam County. To foster open dialogue and ensure community voices are heard, we will host:
- Town halls
- Forums
- Meet-and-greet events
These gatherings will be held across Cookeville, Monterey, Baxter, Algood, Bangham, Bloomington Springs, Buffalo Valley, Grandview, Post Oak, Shady Grove, Silver Point, and Winona.
If you are passionate about local journalism, community storytelling, and delivering news in innovative ways, we encourage you to apply and become a part of our growing team.
*Benefits eligibility varies by position. Full-time employees may qualify for benefits, while freelance, contract, and part-time roles may not be eligible.*
To apply, send your resume, writing samples, and a brief cover letter explaining your interest in the role.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Contract, Internship, Freelance
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Life insurance
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Are you comfortable covering breaking news or attending community events when needed?
- Attach a writing sample or provide a link to published work. (If applicable) AND / OR
If you do not have a writing sample, choose one of the following and write a short 250-word sample article:
Option 1: Write a news report about a local community event.
Option 2: Write an opinion column on an issue affecting Putnam County.
Option 3: Write a feature article highlighting a small business in Putnam County.
- Which communities within Putnam County do you feel most connected to?
- Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?
- What topics do you feel most comfortable writing about? (Check all that apply)
Local government & politics
Community events
Business & economy
Education & schools
Health & wellness
Sports & recreation
Human interest & lifestyle
Religion & faith-based topics
Other (Please specify)
Please explain your choice.
- Our reporters and correspondents represent Highlands Insider in the community, and professionalism is essential. This includes maintaining appropriate attire, grooming, and a professional presence when covering events, conducting interviews, and attending meetings. Additionally, reliable transportation is required for travel within Putnam County. Are you comfortable adhering to a professional dress code, maintaining proper grooming standards, and ensuring reliable transportation for assignments? Please explain how you approach professionalism in your work.
Experience:
- Journalism: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location: In person