Investigative Reporter — Data-Driven Watchdog for Austin

Investigative Reporters and Editors Inc; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 63,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

Austin Free Press is seeking a self-starting reporter for ambitious investigative and enterprise journalism covering Austin and Central Texas. The role focuses on original reporting that informs and empowers local communities and shines a light on government transparency, growth impacts, climate, and accountability.

Ideal candidates have a track record of impactful reporting, strong ethics, and the ability to work with editors, data specialists, and other reporters to develop exclusive stories

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of professional reporting experience.
• Experience with data and public records in reporting.
• Strong writing, reporting, and storytelling skills.
• Ability to develop exclusive, consequential stories.
• Collaborative, fast-paced news environment experience.
• Familiarity with Austin/Texas public affairs is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and produce in-depth investigative and enterprise stories.
• Balance long-form investigations with timely reporting.
• Nationalize local stories or localize national trends.
• Identify and obtain relevant data and public records; analyze findings.
• Craft clear nut graphs and narrative structures.
• Work with editors, data specialists, and reporters.
• Conduct deep research with analytical skills.
• Prioritize accuracy, fairness, and ethical standards.

Skills

Writing skills

Reporting skills

Storytelling

Data analysis

Public records

Collaboration

Multitasking

Job description

Austin Free Press is seeking a self-starting reporter for ambitious investigative and enterprise journalism covering Austin and Central Texas. The role focuses on original reporting that informs and empowers local communities and shines a light on government transparency, growth impacts, climate, and accountability.

Ideal candidates have a track record of impactful reporting, strong ethics, and the ability to work with editors, data specialists, and other reporters to develop exclusive stories