Freelance Reporter/Content Producer

Scope of Work

Courier Texas is seeking a freelance reporter / content producer to help expand our coverage in the Rio Grande Valley and south central Texas. The contractor will independently produce a mix of local news, politics, and lifestyle content to reach audiences beyond traditional news consumers, primarily in south Texas.

Deliverables

• Deliver 5-8 web stories per week to site, including a mix of:
• Original reporting
• Aggregation or curated explainers
• Wire or partner content
• Produce 2-4 pieces of social content per week to support newsletter and web stories, which may include:
• Short-form video (on-camera or voiceover)
• Simple graphics (headline cards, carousels)
• Create content designed to drive audience growth and newsletter subscriptions across web and social platforms as directed

Term & Schedule

• Initial term to be mutually agreed upon (recommended 3–6 months)
• Must reside in or regularly operate within the Rio Grande Valley region
• Contractor will be invited to join the Courier Texas team virtual meetings (2-3 times a week) and may participate in editorial check-ins as reasonably necessary for coordination on assignments

Compensation

• Rate: $35 an hour
• Expected hours: Approximately 25 hours a week

The Ideal Candidate

• Has a strong understanding of the Rio Grande Valley / South Texas and its culture, as well as the issues that matter locally
• Has 3+ years of audience-centered local reporting experience
• Has a previous history of covering local politics, policy, or government for everyday readers
• Is a strong, clear writer who can break down complex topics in an approachable way
• Writes in a conversational, accessible tone designed for everyday readers — not insider audiences
• Is comfortable sourcing stories from community conversations, social media trends, local events, and everyday experiences—not just institutions and press releases
• Has experience creating content for web (WordPress) and social platforms (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok)
• Is comfortable experimenting with formats and testing what resonates with audiences
• Is willing to appear on camera or create video content
• Has experience using tools like Canva, CapCut, Descript, or similar