Investigative Reporter

The Arizona Republic / azcentral.com is seeking an experienced investigative reporter who knows how to dig for a story and write with authority in a swing-state at the center of debates about climate, technology, elections and immigration.

The ideal candidate is passionate about serving audiences, holding the powerful to account, breaking news and pushing harder when the competition turns away. A journalist at heart, you should be equally adept at data analysis and shoe-leather reporting.

In this job, expect to work on quick-turn investigations as well as long-term, detailed projects that inspire change and improve lives. The distinguishing feature of the job is the ability to find the hidden detail or the concealed motive.

You’ll be joining a team that recently produced The Prison Sell , which exposed the state’s practice of exploiting prisoner labor to the benefit of the mass-incarceration industry. That series is a finalist in investigative reporting with the Online News Association . This year, the team is investigating long-term care facilities and nursing homes for The Bitter End , a series that is expected to bring significant change for seniors in the upcoming legislative session.

We’re looking for someone with solid experience covering state or federal agencies, handling FOIA and public-records reporting, and identifying unique and untold stories of wrongdoing that can be made right. Show us a clip file that includes straight investigative stories, insightful and critical newsmaker profiles, narratives spun off breaking news, and at least a few examples of watchdog work written as storytelling.

This job sits at the heart of our prize-winning investigative team. In addition to winning the Pulitzer for explanatory reporting on the border wall in 2017, The Republic is a two-time Pulitzer finalist for breaking news. In recent years, it has been honored with Polk, SPJ, Headliner, Eppy, Murrow, Scripps Howard, Emmy and Goldsmith awards.

Responsibilities

Write regularly, keying off big news events or found objects beneath the surface of the news, while balancing monthly and quarterly enterprise projects.
Provide clear analysis of complex issues.
Monitor audience needs and expectations, cultivating readers on native and primary platforms.
Connect with the community through storytelling, building trust and loyalty.

Requirements

Bachelor's or master’s in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least five years of reporting experience.
Energetic self-starter and a fast thinker who can spot stories that matter.
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 communication skills and news judgment.
Strong interpersonal skills, including empathy and compassion.
Proficiency on social media platforms; including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Threads, Instagram and Reddit, and experience engaging readers in this public space.
Strong writing, spelling and grammar skills and knowledge of AP style.
Command of media law and principles of ethical conduct.
Fluency in Spanish is 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.