Hard News Reporter
Position Type: Remote Independent Contractor
Hy-Lo News is looking for a digitally savvy journalist who understands local politics, government, and South Florida communities to join our editorial team as our Hard News Reporter.
This isn’t a traditional newspaper reporting position. Instead of spending your days attending meetings or conducting lengthy interviews, you’ll focus on researching, verifying, and producing timely, accurate news content using AI-powered workflows.
We’re looking for someone with strong news judgment who knows how to identify important stories, fact-check information, and create engaging digital content that serves Black and Brown communities throughout South Florida.
What You’ll Do
You’ll produce approximately 12 original news articles per month (about three per week) covering topics including:
Local government
South Florida politics
Elections and campaigns
Public policy
Community issues
Education
Social justice
Public safety
Breaking news affecting South Florida
Most stories will be created by gathering information from trusted sources, including press releases, government websites, public records, videos, news conferences, social media posts, and other credible reporting. Your job is to verify facts, organize the information, and produce accurate, engaging content for Hy-Lo News.
Original reporting will occasionally be needed, but this role is primarily research, verification, and digital content production. At times you may reach out via email or direct message to request a quote, clarification, or additional information from public officials, organizations, or community leaders.
AI is Part of the Workflow
Hy-Lo News embraces AI as a newsroom tool.
You’ll use approved AI tools; however, AI is never the reporter. You are.
A successful candidate understands that every article MUST BE thoroughly fact-checked before publication. We’re looking for someone who can recognize when AI makes mistakes, verify information against original sources, and ensure every story meets Hy-Lo News’ editorial standards.
Digital Content Responsibilities
At Hy-Lo News, our journalism doesn’t stop with an article.
You’ll also help package stories for social media by:
Creating graphics in Canva
Scheduling content through Zoho Social
Performing basic video editing for social media when video is available
Repurposing videos, press conferences, interviews, and public content into engaging social posts
Writing captions that encourage conversation and community engagement
Because video performs exceptionally well for our audience, we’re looking for someone who understands how to maximize content across Instagram and TikTok, which are our primary social media platforms.
Our Editorial Lens
Every story should answer an important question:
How does this affect Black and Brown South Florida residents and/or Millennials and Gen Z?
Our audience comes first. We don’t simply report what happened—we explain why it matters and how it impacts the communities we serve.
What We’re Looking For
The ideal candidate:
Has a strong understanding of South Florida politics and local government
Is naturally curious and enjoys following developing news
Is highly organized and able to manage multiple deadlines
Has excellent research and fact-checking skills
Understands AP Style and journalistic ethics
Is comfortable using AI as a productivity tool while maintaining editorial integrity
Knows how to create graphics in Canva
Has experience using social media scheduling platforms (Zoho Social preferred)
Can perform basic video editing for social media
Understands what performs well on Instagram and TikTok
Is a self-starter who requires minimal day-to-day supervision
Works well remotely and communicates proactively
Team Structure
You’ll work closely with Managing Editor Dericka James, collaborating on story assignments, editorial planning, and publishing. While you’ll have support from the editorial team, we’re looking for someone who takes initiative, keeps up with the news cycle, and consistently brings fresh story ideas to the table.
Compensation
This is a month-to-month independent contractor position paying $1,500 per month.
Payment is issued on the 30th of each month after receipt of an invoice and completion of monthly deliverables.
About Hy-Lo News
Hy-Lo News is an award-winning Black-owned digital news organization dedicated to informing and uplifting Black and Brown communities throughout South Florida. We combine journalism, culture, and civic engagement to tell the stories that matter most to our audience.
We’re building a modern digital newsroom that embraces new technology while remaining committed to accurate, community-centered journalism.
How to Apply
Email the following to Janey@hylonews.com:
Your resume
One writing sample and one video sample (news or political reporting preferred but not required)
Start date: ASAP
Interviews for position will begin July 10th.
If you’re passionate about local news, comfortable working with AI, and excited to help build the future of community journalism, we’d love to hear from you.
POSITION FILLED
Job Title: Contract Sales Manager
Company: Tate Media Enterprises LLC / Hy-Lo News
Location: South Florida (Required)
Compensation: $3,000 Monthly Contract + 20% Commission on All Paid Deals
Position Type: Independent Contractor (Month-to-Month)
About Hy-Lo News / Tate Media Enterprises
Tate Media Enterprises LLC, producer of Hy-Lo News, is a growing digital media company focused on serving Black and Brown Millennials and Gen Z audiences in South Florida through hyperlocal news, events, podcasts, digital storytelling, and community engagement. We are looking for a driven and experienced media sales professional who understands the South Florida market and wants to grow with a startup media company that is expanding its impact and revenue opportunities.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced, self-motivated Contract Sales Manager with a strong background in media sales and sponsorships. This person must be a relationship builder, strategic thinker, and strong closer who can independently generate revenue while collaborating with leadership to grow the company.
The ideal candidate understands digital media, event sponsorships, branded content, and advertising sales. They must be comfortable working in a fast-paced startup environment where priorities may shift as the company evolves.
Compensation Structure
- $3,000 monthly contractor rate
- 20% commission on all paid deals closed
- Month-to-month contract
- Performance and results heavily determine long-term continuation of contract
Requirements
- Minimum of 2 years of strong media sales experience
- Must live in and understand the South Florida market
- Strong understanding of Millennials and Gen Z audiences
- Excellent communication, relationship-building, and follow-up skills
- Self-starter with strong organizational and time management skills
- Must align with the Hy-Lo News / Tate Media Enterprises company culture
- Must be adaptable and able to pivot as company needs evolve
- Must be comfortable working with a startup company and contributing revenue growth ideas
- Existing book of business is a major plus
- Interest in long-term growth with the company is strongly preferred
Software & Skills Requirements
Candidate must have working knowledge of:
- Zoho CRM
- Canva
- Google Workspace
- Google Meet
- Other software platforms needed to effectively manage sales operations and communication
Duties & Responsibilities
- Prospect and generate new business opportunities
- Manage relationships with previous and current clients
- Pitch previous clients to renew advertising buys for the new year
- Build and maintain a strong sales pipeline
- Track and manage the full sales cycle
- Meet sales goals and revenue targets
- Create customized sales proposals and sponsorship decks
- Understand all Hy-Lo News and Tate Media Enterprises products and sponsorship offerings
- Close advertising and sponsorship deals independently
- Work with the CEO when needed to help close larger deals
- Understand how to pitch and close event sponsorships
- Work collaboratively with the company virtual assistant to coordinate sales meetings, calls, and follow-ups
- Utilize warm leads provided by the company while also independently developing new business opportunities
- Attend weekly meetings with the CEO to review sales goals, pipeline progress, and revenue strategy
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is hungry, creative, organized, relationship-driven, and excited about helping grow a Black-owned media company with strong community roots and expansion potential.
Start Date: June 1, 2026
TO APPLY:
To apply email resume to Publisher Janéy Tate at Janey@hylonews.com with subject line “Sales Manager Applicant.”