Reporter

Join the Pennsylvania Capital-Star and give readers hard-hitting government coverage that connects state policy to people across the Keystone State.

Pennsylvania Capital-Star, a nonpartisan, nonprofit news organization that covers state government, politics, and policy, is hiring a government reporter. Our digital news organization is dedicated to its mission of relentless reporting that sheds light on how decisions in Harrisburg are made and how they affect people across Pennsylvania.

Part of States Newsroom, the Capital-Star team believes in enlisting and empowering journalists to do impactful, ambitious work that supports the ability of all Pennsylvanians to participate in the political process. We aim to tell stories that aren’t being told, to bring fresh perspectives to state issues and to amplify the voices of communities that have been marginalized.

This reporter will possess great news judgment and demonstrate the ability to develop a beat to create compelling, engaging journalism. The reporter will cover the Pennsylvania Senate, state agencies, statewide elections, and other assignments.
The ideal candidate will know how to track trending topics and hold officials accountable through deep source building and public records requests. The reporting will take readers beyond press releases, providing a deeper understanding of the issues.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Produce regular, high-quality reporting on Pennsylvania government and officials
Contribute regularly to the Capital-Star’s briefs section
Generate story ideas with the editor
Pursue story leads with strong self-direction and news judgment
Approach assignments on deadline with strong communication and follow through with the editor and colleagues
Collaborate with other reporters on projects and to share research and pertinent knowledge when/if available
Establish and expand digital media presence representing the outlet and use personal social media to amplify the site’s content

QUALIFICATIONS

We’re looking for candidates with at least three years previous news reporting experience, sound news judgment, flexibility, and the ability to manage ongoing and short-term projects with strong attention to detail and accuracy. Experience with data journalism, government reporting, and video editing are preferred. Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

Authorization to work in the United States is required. All States Newsroom employees are required to be fully vaccinated within 30 days of hire. States Newsroom journalists are expected to produce at least four posts per week.

The minimum salary for this position is $60,000. Our generous benefits package includes:

Premium-free platinum healthcare for employees and their families (i.e., nothing comes out of your paycheck!)
4 weeks of vacation per year
2 weeks of personal leave per year
20 hours of paid volunteer time per year
7 holidays and 4 floating holidays
$75 monthly cell phone reimbursement
$200 cell phone replacement benefit every two years
$75 monthly fitness benefit
401K with up to 3% match
12 weeks of parental leave
Annual DeleteMe subscription