Public Trust & Accountability Reporter | Data-Driven

AgUpdate

Erie (Erie County)

Hybrid

USD 55,000 - 85,000

Full time

3 days ago

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Job summary

Erie Times-News and GoErie.com seeks an ambitious public trust and accountability journalist to help residents understand how public institutions shape life across Erie County, Pennsylvania. This role emphasizes outcomes over process, using data, records and video storytelling to explain government performance, budgets and public spending to readers.

The reporter will build sources, produce enterprise journalism, and collaborate across teams while employing AI tools to enhance storytelling and

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Proven record of strong reporting and enterprise journalism.
Ability to develop sources and build trust across diverse communities.
Strong news judgment and accountability reporting instincts.
Experience using public records, data and document‑driven reporting.
Excellent interviewing, research and storytelling skills.
Knowledge of AP style.
Understanding of digital audience needs, SEO and social media strategy.
Experience producing or appearing in video journalism is preferred.
Strong ethical standards and commitment to accurate, fair reporting.
Willingness to experiment with new tools and storytelling formats, including responsible use of AI.
Ability to collaborate effectively across teams and within the USA TODAY Network.
Comfort balancing breaking news demands with longer‑term enterprise projects.
Valid driver's license, reliable transportation and minimum state‑required auto insurance.

Responsibilities

Creates storytelling that accurately informs, engages and empowers audiences.
Produces accountability and enterprise journalism focused on government performance, transparency and public outcomes.
Develops deep sourcing among residents, community leaders, public officials and institutional stakeholders.
Builds and maintains long‑term reporting arcs that track promises, implementation efforts and measurable outcomes.
Uses data, public records and document‑driven reporting to uncover trends and hold institutions accountable.
Produces video, social and digital storytelling that expands the reach and impact of reporting.
Collaborates with audience, visual, investigative and beat reporters across the newsroom.
Works with content and audience strategists to identify information needs and strengthen community engagement.
Captures basic photos and video when appropriate.
Promotes personal brand, newsroom brands and the USA TODAY Network mission.
Provides outstanding service journalism by helping readers find answers and navigate public systems.