Higher Education Accountability Reporter

The Arizona Republic |azcentral.com, part of the USA TODAY Network, is seeking a reporter to cover higher education through an accountability lens.

Arizona features three state universities, private universities and a challenged network of community colleges that draw in an estimated 650,000 students annually. These institutions are multibillion-dollar enterprises that demand scrutiny.

They generate billions of dollars in investments, spend billions of dollars on athletics, employ tens of thousands of people and educate the next generation of workers and thought leaders in Arizona. Our coverage will focus particularly on Arizona taxpayers who want assurances their money is not misspent or wasted, and on students and communities enmeshed in culture wars and deep economic questions over the benefits and focus of higher education.

This reporter will deliver enterprise, breaking and trending stories about higher education and other postsecondary programs, from workforce development to culture wars to the outsized role of these higher education institutions in their communities. Arizona has a lower college graduation rate – less than 30% of the population – so this reporter also will explore issues for young adults who end their formal education at or before 12th grade.

We are looking for a candidate empathetic enough to tell the story of what it’s like to be a student in these uncertain times – and a candidate who also has the passion to be a fearless watchdog always looking out for the public interest.

We are seeking a journalist who wants to lead coverage for the region and the state, excels at source development and enjoys speaking with real people. We need a reporter who isn’t afraid to ask the hard questions and doesn’t settle for limits set by academic gatekeepers. Experience with public records requests, deciphering contracts and financial documents, and working with databases is preferred.

Equity and inclusion are central to our reporting, and we need a reporter who shares the mission of including the vast array of viewpoints in our communities. The position comes with strong onboarding support, training opportunities and limitless career advancement.

Resonsibilities

Become the community’s leading voice on your topic.
Connect with the community through storytelling.
Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
Work with your editor and digital partners to evaluate what's working and what's not and develop ongoing plans to better satisfy audience needs.
Collaborate with photographers to provide all appropriate elements for stories. Capture basic photos and video as needed.
Promote personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.
Provide great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.

Requirements

Bachelor's or master’s in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least two years of reporting experience in a daily newsroom. Previous education reporting experience preferred.
Strong communication skills, news judgment and headline-writing ability.
Strong interpersonal skills, including empathy and compassion.
Proficiency on social media platforms; including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram and Reddit, and experience engaging readers in this public space.
Energetic self-starter and a fast thinker who can spot stories that matter.
Experience shooting and editing photos and video on an iPhone.
Ability to multitask and excel in a fast-paced environment under intense deadline pressure.
Ability to work collaboratively and efficiently with a team of journalists.
Strong writing, spelling and grammar skills and knowledge of AP style.
Command of media law and principles of ethical conduct.
Fluency in Spanish a plus.
This role requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
Employment is contingent on passing a pre-employment, post-offer drug screen, motor vehicle record check and background check.