Data Journalist: Investigative Storyteller & Data Viz

Newsworks Lab; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Newsroom experience

Job summary

Newsworks Lab in Pittsburgh is seeking a data journalist who can translate complex data into compelling public‑accountability journalism and present findings in innovative ways across platforms. The role demands enterprise reporting, fast iteration, and the ability to pitch story ideas while training others in data investigation.

Ideal candidates will pitch ideas, support reporting across regional newsrooms, and engage audiences IRL to hear community concerns.

Qualifications

• 2–5 years of experience in journalism, data analysis, or a related field
• Proficiency in at least one programming language (Python or R)
• Strong skills in spreadsheet analysis (Excel, Google Sheets)
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Datawrapper, Tableau)
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex data into clear narratives
• Familiarity with public records and open-data sources

Responsibilities

• Develop enterprise and investigative story ideas based on source development and analysis of data from open records
• Deliver interactive and easily digestible journalism across multiple platforms that includes writing, photographs, videos, graphics and audio
• Interact with audiences across social media platforms and in real life to hear community concerns, develop story ideas with the public and deliver content
• Work closely with other members of the Newsworks Lab team and journalists across western Pennsylvania in university, community and niche‑audience newsrooms
• Redefine local news by developing innovative, community‑engaged ways of gathering information, developing story ideas and interacting with audiences

Skills

Data journalism

Data analysis

Programming (Python/R)

Spreadsheet analysis

Data visualization

Public records research

Tools

Datawrapper

Tableau

Excel

Google Sheets

GIS tools

Job description

Newsworks Lab in Pittsburgh is seeking a data journalist who can translate complex data into compelling public‑accountability journalism and present findings in innovative ways across platforms. The role demands enterprise reporting, fast iteration, and the ability to pitch story ideas while training others in data investigation.

Ideal candidates will pitch ideas, support reporting across regional newsrooms, and engage audiences IRL to hear community concerns.