We are not currently accepting applications for this position.
We’re looking for two research reporters to work with ProPublica’s local staff as well as our Local Reporting Network partners to produce groundbreaking accountability stories. Both positions are full time. One of the two positions is temporary, for one year.
ProPublica is expanding its local presence by adding offices in the South and the Southwest and augmenting its presence in the Midwest. This will be in addition to our joint initiative with The Texas Tribune and our Local Reporting Network. We are adding reporters, editors and members of our specialized teams to work on these local efforts. Research is an integral part of this.
This is a position for someone with a demonstrated history of newsroom work, preferably in a local setting.
Our local operations have produced investigative journalism that has spurred impact and produced change. Articles by our Chicago-based office have erased millions of dollars in debt, ousted government officials, changed state policy and freed people from prison.
The impact of our Local Reporting Network has been likewise extraordinary. Our research team worked with the Anchorage Daily News on a first-of-its-kind investigation that found that one in three communities in Alaska has no local law enforcement. Following that coverage, U.S. Attorney General William P. Barr visited Alaska and later declared a state of emergency, releasing millions in federal funds to devote to the problem.
This research reporter will work with ProPublica editors overseeing our local coverage to help our journalists and our partners find the public records that will shape their story. No two stories are alike, but the job will involve using research tools, teaching others to use them, filing FOIA requests and connecting the dots between bits of information, depending on the project.
This job is for somebody who has experience with or a strong enthusiasm for public records, databases such as LexisNexis and Pacer, and FOIA requests. The ideal candidate has a meticulous attention to detail, a passion for digging and strong news judgment. Data skills and fluency in languages other than English — especially Spanish — are a plus.
We want to hire journalists who bring a diversity of experiences, talents and viewpoints to their work. So, if you don’t think you can check off every box on the list above but are confident you can contribute to our efforts, please don’t hesitate to apply.
We are dedicated to improving our newsroom, in part by better reflecting the people we cover. (Here is a breakdown of our staff.) We are committed to diversity and building an inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds and ages. And we are taking steps to meet that commitment. We especially encourage members of traditionally underrepresented communities to apply, including women, people of color, LGBTQ people and people with disabilities.
If all of this sounds exciting to you, you can apply using this form. The deadline for applications is Sunday, Nov. 8, at 11:59 p.m. PST. By default you’ll be considered for the non-temporary position, but on the form you can indicate if you’d prefer to apply for the temporary position or both.
These jobs include benefits. The positions will be based in our New York office, but we’re open to remote working if the fit is right. Applicants must be eligible to work in the U.S. Questions? Send them to [email protected] and [email protected]. No phone calls, please.
Want to know about other jobs at ProPublica? Check out our full list of jobs and fellowships, and sign up to be notified when there is a new opening.
