We are not currently accepting applications for this position.
We are looking for an experienced researcher to help us uncover documents, data and sources for hard-hitting investigative projects. You’ll team up with reporters and editors to do the kind of deep digging required to put out rigorous, powerful investigations.
This is a yearlong position based in our Washington, D.C., office. It comes with a full salary and benefits.
What you would do:
You’ll plot out the best way to find everything that is needed for a story. This could include filing a FOIA request or tracking down a difficult-to-find source. You’ll collaborate with reporters and ProPublica’s partners on projects that can take a variety of forms, from newspaper investigations to magazine features to interactives and podcasts.
We’re looking for someone who has:
Advanced skills in using public records databases to ferret out facts. Being able to search Nexis or PACER is great, but what we want is somebody who’s eager to dig even deeper.
The ability to track down people who are hard to find and to do comprehensive background research.
Experience with the Freedom of Information Act and state open-records request processes and laws, and knowledge of how to negotiate to get data sets and documents.
A commitment to collegiality and collaboration.
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. A background in journalism is not required.
We are dedicated to improving our newsroom, in part by better reflecting the people we cover. (Here is a breakdown of our own 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.
What you should send us:
The most important part of your application is your past work. Send us links to your best stuff that you’ve worked on. Let us know how your research and reporting shaped the stories or work. Don’t be shy — tell us what worked (numbers and evidence of impact welcome) and how you’d do it differently next time.
Research is about far more than digging up documents and data. It’s about putting that material into context. Show us how you think. Lay out your vision for what research projects we should do at ProPublica and tell us how you would approach the job.
Apply using this form. The deadline is Feb. 14.
You can send questions to [email protected]. No phone calls, please.