What are the responsibilities and job description for the Investigations Editor position at Newsworks Lab?
Investigations Editor
The investigations editor at NewsWorks Lab leads an ambitious team dedicated to original, high-impact accountability journalism. This person will oversee the Lab’s enterprise journalists and data journalist, guiding their storytelling from the first spark of an idea through reporting, writing, editing and publication.
The ideal candidate is a proven investigative journalist and skilled editor who knows how to identify original enterprise ideas, obtain hard-to-get information, sharpen reporting strategies and turn complex findings into clear, compelling stories. This person must be able to manage multiple projects and deadlines without sacrificing accuracy, fairness or detail, and must be equally committed to producing excellent journalism and helping other reporters grow.
Every member of the NewsWorks Lab team must possess baseline skills along with a unique superpower that enhances overall team strength. Together, we will innovate, fail or succeed quickly, and learn through iteration. Our shared goal is redefining local news for audiences today and into the future.
In addition to excellent reporting, editing and communication skills, ideal candidates are adept at:
- Developing and shaping original investigative and enterprise ideas with clear public-accountability value
- Coaching reporters through source development, public-records strategy, interviewing, data analysis, reporting, drafting and revision
- Editing for structure, clarity, accuracy, fairness, voice and impact
- Helping reporters identify what is missing, test assumptions and pursue sources, records and data that move a story beyond what is already known
- Managing several stories and investigations at once, from quick-turn enterprise work to longer-term projects
- Connecting reporting, data analysis and audience insights into cohesive, innovative storytelling across platforms
- Setting high standards, giving clear feedback and creating accountability while encouraging initiative
- Collaborating with regional news organizations, colleges, universities and community partners
The investigations editor must have:
- A demonstrated record of producing or editing investigative, enterprise or accountability journalism
- Proven ability to obtain exclusive information through source development, public records, data, field reporting and persistent follow-up
- Experience coaching reporters and improving their reporting, writing, judgment and confidence
- Excellent line-editing and story-editing skills, with meticulous attention to facts, language, sourcing and narrative structure
- Sound news judgment and the ability to distinguish a promising idea from a consequential, publishable investigation
- Strong project-management skills and the ability to move multiple stories forward at different stages of development
- A collaborative leadership style and a commitment to ethical, fair and community-centered journalism
Preferred skills include:
- Experience with data journalism, records-based reporting and digital investigations
- Experience leading collaborative projects across newsrooms and disciplines
- Comfort with emerging storytelling methods and technology
What is NewsWorks Lab?
NewsWorks Lab is a public benefit company dedicated to investigative reporting in western Pennsylvania. Funded by Trib Total Media and guided by the belief that the news ecosystem is stronger together, its mission is to provide rigorous, open-source journalism that strengthens democracy through innovative storytelling, data-driven reporting and regional collaboration. The Lab is based within Pittsburgh’s North Shore entertainment district.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply at jobs@newsworkslab.com. Applications must include:
- A cover letter telling us why you’re the right candidate for this role
- At least three samples of your editing work
- At least five general story ideas
Questions about the position may be directed to Andrew Conte, editor and director, at aconte@newsworkslab.com.
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Salary : $54,605 - $86,894