Government & Politics Editor — Watchdog Leader

USA TODAY Co., Inc.; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

IndyStar, part of the USA TODAY Network, is seeking a government and politics editor to lead a team of reporters in a fast-paced Central Indiana market. The role focuses on watchdog, enterprise and ongoing coverage of local and national politics.

The editor will emphasize audience needs, teach strong source-building, manage deadlines and champion rigorous, ethical reporting across all formats. A passion for politics and teamwork is essential.

Qualifications

• Five+ years of journalism experience with political reporting or editing.
• Proven proficiency in applying analytics to content strategy.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Deadline-driven with exceptional planning and organizational skills.
• Experience with public records and data journalism; solid understanding of media law.

Responsibilities

• Manage a team of reporters covering city, state, and federal government.
• Lead coverage of national or statewide political interest for the USA TODAY Network.
• Mentor reporters on source-building, interviewing and public records.
• Guide storytelling using various formats, video, and visuals.
• Use metrics to guide the team's approach to stories.
• Handle editing duties, including evening and weekend rotations.

Skills

Team leadership

Source-building

Public records

Analytics in content

SEO knowledge

Social media

News editing

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

IndyStar, part of the USA TODAY Network, is seeking a government and politics editor to lead a team of reporters in a fast-paced Central Indiana market. The role focuses on watchdog, enterprise and ongoing coverage of local and national politics.

The editor will emphasize audience needs, teach strong source-building, manage deadlines and champion rigorous, ethical reporting across all formats. A passion for politics and teamwork is essential.