Lead Reporter, Plastics

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Lead Reporter, Plastics based in the United States.

This role offers an exciting opportunity for an experienced journalist to become a leading voice within the plastics and manufacturing sectors. As a key content creator and industry expert, you will produce impactful reporting across digital, print, social, audio, and visual platforms. Working in a dynamic and collaborative environment, you will engage directly with influential industry leaders, uncover emerging trends, and deliver meaningful insights to a professional audience. The position combines investigative reporting, thought leadership, and audience engagement, allowing you to build a recognized presence within your coverage area. Ideal candidates are curious, driven storytellers who thrive on developing expert sources, producing original content, and shaping conversations that influence industry decision-making.

• Research, write, record, and publish high-quality original content across multiple media formats, including digital publications, print, social media, audio, and video channels.
• Conduct interviews with industry leaders, subject matter experts, and key stakeholders to deliver insightful reporting, analysis, and commentary.
• Develop and maintain a strong network of industry contacts to generate exclusive stories, expert perspectives, and reliable sources.
• Review, solicit, and curate contributed content from external experts when appropriate.
• Participate in industry conferences, trade shows, webinars, and other live or virtual events to gather insights and strengthen professional relationships.
• Establish a recognizable professional voice through bylined content, newsletters, public appearances, and social media engagement.
• Serve as an internal subject matter expert, sharing industry knowledge and supporting cross-functional editorial initiatives.
• Monitor industry developments, emerging technologies, regulatory changes, and market trends to identify relevant reporting opportunities.
• Contribute to audience growth and engagement strategies through SEO, social media, multimedia storytelling, and digital publishing best practices.
• Consistently produce authoritative and impactful journalism that delivers value to readers and industry professionals.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, English, Communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional editorial, reporting, or journalism experience.
• Strong writing, editing, research, and interviewing skills with a demonstrated ability to produce original, high-quality content.
• Solid understanding of journalistic ethics, fact-checking standards, and editorial best practices.
• Experience with digital publishing platforms, content management systems, and audience engagement strategies.
• Strong public speaking and communication skills with the ability to represent editorial content at industry events.
• Proficiency in social media platforms and content promotion techniques.
• Familiarity with SEO and evolving digital content optimization practices.
• Comfortable appearing on camera, participating in podcasts, webinars, or other multimedia formats.
• Excellent networking abilities and relationship-building skills.
• Experience covering manufacturing, industrial markets, or business sectors is preferred.
• Knowledge of plastics manufacturing, processing technologies, and industry trends is highly desirable.
• Self-motivated, organized, and capable of managing multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• 24/7 access to telehealth services.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options.
• Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions.
• Paid parental leave.
• Generous paid time off program.
• 12 paid company holidays annually.
• Tuition assistance and continuing education support.
• Professional development and career growth opportunities.
• Employee recognition programs and performance awards.
• Retail and travel discount programs.
• Inclusive and collaborative workplace culture focused on growth and merit-based advancement.