Investigative Reporter

The Guardian is a global news organization that delivers fearless, independent journalism. From breaking news and award-winning investigations, to in-depth coverage of technology, sports, film, culture and lifestyle, the Guardian offers a global view that deepens our audiences' understanding of America and the world.

Headquartered in New York City, Guardian US is an entirely digital operation that seeks to engage US readers by combining the Guardian's international coverage with US voices and expertise. Core coverage areas include the climate emergency, economic and racial inequality, digital privacy and much more. Guardian US launched in 2011 and today has bureaus in New York, Washington DC, New Orleans and Los Angeles. The Guardian is an independently owned, mission-driven organization, funded by readers around the globe.

It's the talent, energy and commitment our people bring to The Guardian that make us who we are. Across our business we have some of the most creative thinkers in media and beyond: award winning journalists, cutting edge commercial teams, digital talent and more.

Job title: Investigative reporter

Department: Editorial

Reports to: Head of investigations

Normal location: New York, Washington DC or remote (US)

Terms and conditions: Full-time, permanent, News Media Guild position.

Salary range: $95,000 - $115,000

Note: This range represents an estimate of what we expect to pay for this role. To determine the final salary, The Guardian may consider an employee's experience, skills, achievements, and location.

Purpose of the role

We are looking for an investigative reporter to join a new unit that will develop and publish original investigative journalism at Guardian US.

The mission of the team is to produce high-impact original investigative stories on issues our readers care deeply about. The tempo will vary according to the project; if we are in a position to shed light on an urgent topic, the team may produce some fast-turn stories in response to breaking news events, but it will always be working on longer term projects that require perseverance and innovative reporting techniques.

In the role you will pitch, develop and report stories and projects that hold power to account.

The ideal candidate has a proven record as an investigative journalist, and is adept at research and reporting methods from FOIA requests to OSINT analysis to cultivating whistleblower sources. If your past areas of focus overlap with the Guardian US's editorial interests – including tech, environment, politics, national security, immigration, police brutality, lobbying and corruption, disinformation, financial crime, surveillance and corporate abuses – that is a plus. The ideal candidate will arrive with a roster of ideas they'd like to pursue, and understand the Guardian's lens on these crucial issues.

Main duties & responsibilities

Work closely with the head and deputy head of investigations and US news desk to deliver high quality investigative journalism across multiple platforms
Generate, report and write stories both independently and in collaboration with investigative team members and reporters across the newsroom
Adhere to appropriate standards of data retention and security, and use encrypted channels for communication when required
Closely monitor US news, maintaining a nuanced understanding of social and political trends and spotting journalistic opportunities

Skills & qualifications

Track record of high-impact investigative journalism
At least 5 years of reporting experience
Success at breaking news as well as crafting compelling longform narratives
Expertise in using documents, data, and other journalistic and investigative tools and techniques to develop and report stories
Enthusiasm for collaborating on video, audio, interactive and other forms of content
Excellent news judgment and commitment to high standards for fair and accurate reporting
Excellent awareness of social media as a means for generating and developing storylines
Ability to form productive relationships within and outside the newsroom and with diverse industry organizations, interview subjects and contacts
Ability to generate fresh ideas and angles
Strong command of important issues in the US that are relevant to a global audience
Ability to bring a diverse perspective to the role
Skilled in maintaining and developing a wide range of sources across different areas of focus
Collaborative spirit, curiosity, open-mindedness
Commitment to fairness, integrity, independence, and to following the facts wherever they lead