Reporter - Community Insight Ann Arbor

About the role

MLive seeks a news reporter to cover the University of Michigan and business development in Washtenaw and Livingston counties. We are looking for a reporter who can write sharp stories and strong video scripts, produce a TikTok or other social video when the story calls for it, and dig into longer enterprise work that helps readers understand their community. This role requires someone who listens closely to the buzz in the community and turns that curiosity into useful, trusted journalism.

We are the state’s largest media organization with newspapers in eight of Michigan’s largest cities, including Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, and Kalamazoo. Our mission is journalism that makes a difference in the lives of Michiganders, focusing on impact and accountability reporting.

Responsibilities

• Use social monitoring tools, search trends, public information feeds, meeting agendas, and community conversations to stay on top of daily news and identify reader questions.
• Produce timely updates, explainers, and advance stories people are already talking about—not just following institutional narratives.
• Identify, verify, and develop stories that resonate with everyday residents, including those surfaced through reader questions, social conversation, and public records.
• Prioritize accountability and service journalism by filing FOIAs, building a strong source network, and explaining how local decisions affect daily life.
• Appear on camera and produce short, engaging social videos to bring reporting to wider audiences.
• Balance fast, accurate daily updates with enterprise and explanatory stories to build reader trust.
• Work independently and remotely, as well as in the MLive office.
• Use AI responsibly as a tool to surface story ideas, build context, and deepen coverage.

This job requires reliable transportation to meet with sources or cover events.

Requirements

• A degree in journalism, communications, or a related field, or equivalent education and experience.
• At least two years of professional journalism experience with a demonstrated ability to produce clear, compelling, and accurate reporting.
• Digital fluency and audience focus, including understanding where local residents engage and how to turn curiosity into repeatable coverage formats.
• Comfort working at a high tempo while maintaining accuracy and depth.

Benefits

• Competitive pay with a base salary range of $55,000 - $65,000 per year.
• Comprehensive healthcare options, including medical, dental, and vision plans, as well as mental health support.
• Flexible spending accounts and fertility assistance.
• Competitive 401(k) plan for retirement savings.
• Generous paid time off, including paid parental and caregiver leave.
• Employee assistance program for work/life balance support.
• Optional legal assistance and life insurance options.
• Flexible holidays to honor cultural diversity.

MLive Media Group is part of Advance Local Media, a leading news and information company operating in over 20 cities, reaching 52+ million people monthly.