Investigative Reporter
Investigative reporter The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the largest and most influential local news organization in Georgia, seeks an investigative reporter to reveal problems that harm Georgians and point the way to solutions. The AJC's mission is to be the most essential and engaging source of news and information for the people of Atlanta, of Georgia and the South. To achieve that mission, we are investing and transforming our organization from a storied daily newspaper into a modern media company.
We seek an investigative reporter to examine the workings of government, institutions and individuals, reveal breakdowns, failures and corruption and hold public officials and institutions accountable for serving the public.
Role Description
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has a strong record as a powerful investigative force for good and we are looking for someone to join a team committed to that mission.
If selected for this role, you will provide unique, in-depth stories for print, digital, audio and video editions by examining the workings of government and other powerful institutions and individuals. You must be highly skilled at source development and in-depth reporting, adept at recognizing and framing investigative story ideas and knowledgeable about public records laws. You will produce quick-turn watchdog and investigative work and longer-term project work while maintaining rigorous standards for fairness and accuracy. You will frame engaging stories that draw in readers and challenge officials and institutions while upholding our high standards for investigative reporting.
Stories will typically involve deep digging, including public record acquisition and data analysis, and will often involve partnership with other reporters, members of our data team and presentation specialists. It is not a job for someone who prefers to work independently. The AJC investigative team values close collaboration between reporters, editors and other teams across the newsroom.
An ideal fit for this role is a reporter with a proven record of investigative reporting or a strong watchdog government or business reporter. Published material must demonstrate a record of compelling writing and investigative impact. Multi-media experience beyond print writing is a very strong force multiplier of our impact and will be expected in the role.
Other Key Requirements, Skills And Abilities
Demonstrates strong news judgment and clear ability to quickly develop journalism that holds institutions and individuals accountable for following laws and serving the public. Breaks exclusive news stories that distinguish The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Displays depth as a reporter and capability of delivering stories without reporting gaps. Writes with authority and produces clean story drafts that do not require substantial re-writing.
Expert at reporting using records and databases and navigating laws relating to public records.
Collaborates effectively with colleagues in the newsroom and embraces contributions of others that can improve the work.
Generates work that is balanced, fair, accurate and complete, incorporating a diverse range of sources and avoiding bias.
Uses time effectively, meeting deadlines and producing an acceptable volume of work that demonstrates a mix of shorter-term and long-term accountability journalism.
Handles other assignments as needed, showing flexibility and adaptability.
Proven flexibility to meet news cycle needs, including fast-breaking news, short-term enterprise and in-depth explanatory and watchdog coverage.
Proven ability to juggle priorities and assignments; organized and efficient across assignments. Is able to get up-to-speed quickly on new assignments.
Creates effective cross-platform content; can contribute versions for print, digital, audio and video.
Plans or takes photos and video; collects audio. Demonstrated on-air experience and presence in audio and/or video a plus.
Provides needed communication across the newsroom and collaborates effectively.
Engages with editors on best ways to frame and present stories on digital and print platforms.
The responsibilities above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this job. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for this position.
Position Requirements
Education: Bachelor's degree preferred. May substitute experience for degree.
Experience: 8+ years of professional journalism/newsroom experience including significant investigative or watchdog work off a beat or as a full-time investigative reporter; comparable experience through other roles will be considered for outstanding candidates. Additional experience, skills and qualifications may qualify an applicant for a higher-graded role.
Proven record of serving audiences in a fast-paced, productive environment that is shaped by research, audience metrics and audience needs in print and in digital.
A body of published work that demonstrates investigative impact.
Collaborative spirit
Experience in a broadcast or digital environment a plus
Fluency in language other than English a plus
Additional Requirements
Permanent residence in metro Atlanta required.
Flexibility to work varied schedule that could include nights, early morning, and/or weekends.
Reliable internet access to work remotely
Local travel required. Therefore, a successful candidate will need a reliable vehicle to cover the news.