Court Enterprise Reporter
The Indianapolis Star/IndyStar.com, a 2021 Pulitzer Prize winner, is seeking a reporter to deliver important stories from the court beat as part of our criminal justice team.
The successful candidate will devote a significant amount of their time to quick-turn enterprise and longer-range projects -- using their excellent news judgment to find the stories and trends no one knows about -- while selectively covering a few of the biggest trials in the state.
They will be a strong writer who can cut through the legalese to weave stories about people's conflicts with each other and the legal system. They will hold officials and agencies accountable for how they use the power with which they have been entrusted.
This reporter must relish working in an increasingly competitive news market but also be a team player, as there will be overlap and opportunities for collaboration with other IndyStar beats.
Readers — both existing and future — drive our journalism. What do citizens of Indianapolis and beyond want and need to know as they go about their busy lives? Candidates should be familiar with using analytics, SEO and social media to ensure we’re reaching and serving our audience.
They also must have experience in source development, database reporting and the use of public records. IndyStar reporters in all beats are expected to not only develop sources in the halls of power, but also seek out and represent perspectives from diverse racial, ethnic and economic backgrounds.
In addition to the above, the court beat requires someone who:
Understands the inner workings of the criminal justice system and can explain it to a layperson.
Can report on complex, emotional and even traumatic topics in a high-pressure, deadline-driven environment.
Has strong understanding of journalism ethics and experience applying them.
Other requirements:
Three or more years of experience in journalism
Knowledge of AP style
Planning, organizational and time management skills
Self-motivation and self-direction
Collaboration and communication skills
Residence in the Indianapolis area or a willingness to move here
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don’t limit your upload to a resume; show us what you’ve done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order:
Your resume – one to two pages.
A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what you’ve produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role.
It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.