Education, Media, and Nonprofit
Media
Investigative Journalist
An investigative journalist researches and reports on issues of public interest, often involving political corruption, corporate wrongdoing, or other significant matters.
Investigative Journalist
Top Articles for Investigative Journalist
Breaking into Investigative Journalism: A Career Blueprint
Breaking into Investigative Journalism: A Career Blueprint
Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Investigative Journalism
Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Investigative Journalism
Digging Deeper: Finding Stories Worth Investigating
Digging Deeper: Finding Stories Worth Investigating
Building Your Network as an Investigative Journalist
Building Your Network as an Investigative Journalist
Essential Skills Every Investigative Journalist Needs
Essential Skills Every Investigative Journalist Needs
Tech Tools for the Modern Investigative Reporter
Tech Tools for the Modern Investigative Reporter
Sample Job Descriptions for Investigative Journalist
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
We are currently seeking a highly motivated and resourceful Investigative Journalist to join our dynamic news team. In this role, you will have the opportunity to delve into deep stories, uncover truths, and provide our audience with detailed and engaging reports on a range of critical and sensitive subjects. This position is ideal for someone with a passion for journalism, a curiosity to investigate, and a commitment to ethical reporting.
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Required Skills
  • Exceptional writing and storytelling abilities.
  • Strong research and analytical skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal and interviewing skills.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
  • Well-organized and detail-oriented.
  • Proficiency with digital technologies, including content management systems and social media platforms.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, or related field.
  • Up to 2 years of experience in journalism or related field; fresh graduates with relevant internship experience are welcome to apply.
  • A demonstrable track record of writing articles, preferably with a focus on investigative reporting.
  • Understanding of media law and journalism ethics.
Responsibilities
  • Conduct in-depth research to uncover facts about stories assigned by the editorial team.
  • Interview sources, often under challenging circumstances, to gather credible information.
  • Collaborate with editors, photographers, and other journalists to piece together stories.
  • Write compelling and accurate narratives while adhering to the publication's style and ethical guidelines.
  • Stay up-to-date with ongoing developments and updates related to stories covered.
  • Meet deadlines and manage multiple assignments simultaneously.
  • Ensure all reporting is compliant with legal and journalistic standards.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
We are looking for a passionate Investigative Journalist to conduct in-depth research and uncover the truth behind incidents and issues. This role requires a commitment to finding the facts, persistence, and a knack for storytelling.
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Required Skills
  • Excellent research and reporting skills.
  • Strong writing and storytelling abilities.
  • Ability to analyze and synthesize information.
  • Persistence and attention to detail.
  • Understanding of media law and ethics.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or related field.
  • At least 2 years of experience in an investigative reporting role.
  • Proven track record of successful investigative stories.
Responsibilities
  • Conduct detailed research to uncover facts and obtain confidential information.
  • Stay updated with current events and establish a network of sources.
  • Write, edit, and submit investigative reports while adhering to deadlines.
  • Collaborate with editors, reporters, and other journalists.
  • Ensure all investigative work is accurate, fair, and legally compliant.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
Seeking an experienced Senior Investigative Journalist with a proven record of uncovering truths, exposing wrongdoing, and presenting in-depth analysis on complex issues. The ideal candidate should be adept at handling long-term investigations and be committed to delivering high-quality journalism with unwavering ethical standards.
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Required Skills
  • Exceptional writing and storytelling abilities.
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
  • Proficient in investigative research methods and data analysis tools.
  • Excellent communication and interviewing skills.
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Resilience and tenacity in the face of challenges and high-pressure situations.
  • Keen attention to detail and dedication to accuracy.
  • Skilled in multimedia and digital storytelling techniques.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, or related field (Master's preferred).
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in investigative journalism, with a portfolio of published work.
  • Proven track record of managing investigations that have had significant impact.
  • Extensive knowledge of media law and ethics.
  • Willingness to work irregular hours and travel as needed for stories.
Responsibilities
  • Lead and conduct in-depth investigations on various topics, sometimes involving high-risk circumstances.
  • Develop a network of reliable sources and use advanced research techniques to gather information.
  • Analyze and interpret data, legal documents, and other findings to create cohesive narratives.
  • Collaborate with editors, photographers, and other journalists to produce comprehensive investigative pieces.
  • Uphold the highest journalistic standards and ethical considerations in all reporting.
  • Pitch compelling story ideas to editors and work to develop them into detailed investigative projects.
  • Provide mentorship and guidance to junior members of the investigative team.
  • Navigate complex legal landscapes and understand the implications of reporting sensitive information.
See other roles in Education, Media, and Nonprofit and Media

Sample Interview Questions

Tell us about a time when you had to make difficult decisions regarding the direction or scope of an investigation. How did you approach it?
Tell us about a time when you had to work under high-pressure situations. How did you handle the stress and deliver high-quality journalism?
How do you ensure accuracy and attention to detail in your reporting? Can you provide an example?
How do you approach collaborating with other journalists and news organizations on investigative projects? Can you provide an example?
Describe a time when you were faced with a tight deadline for an investigative project. How did you manage your time and prioritize tasks?
Tell us about a time when your investigative work led to positive change or had a significant impact on a community or society at large.
Tell us about a time when you had to work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders, such as legal teams or advocacy groups, on an investigative project.
Tell us about a time when you had to confront a powerful individual or organization in your investigative reporting. How did you approach the situation?
How do you stay updated on current events and emerging trends in investigative journalism?
Describe a situation where you had to negotiate access to information or gain the trust of a source. How did you handle it?
How do you approach fact-checking and ensuring the accuracy of your investigative reporting?
How do you approach interviewing subjects for investigative pieces? What strategies do you use to gather necessary information?
How would you handle a situation where you encounter resistance or pushback while pursuing a story?
Can you give an example of a significant investigation you have managed? What impact did it have?
Describe a situation where you had to balance the need for transparency with the potential risks involved in reporting sensitive information.
Describe your experience with conducting in-depth investigations. How do you approach such projects?
Tell us about a situation where you had to negotiate access to information or gain the trust of a reluctant source. How did you approach it?
What role do you believe investigative journalism plays in society? Why is it important?
Describe a time when you had to handle multiple deadlines for different investigative projects. How did you manage your time and prioritize effectively?
Describe a time when you had to manage conflicts or disagreements within a team during an investigative project. How did you handle it?
Tell us about a time when your investigative work had a significant impact on a community or society. How did it bring about change?
How do you ensure that your investigative work remains unbiased and objective? What steps do you take to avoid personal bias in your reporting?
How do you handle the emotional toll and potential risks associated with investigative journalism?
Describe a situation where you had to handle feedback or criticism from readers or the public on your investigative reporting. How did you respond?
How do you handle criticism and feedback on your investigative work? How do you use it to improve?
Tell us about a time when you had to dig deep into a complex issue for an investigative piece. How did you approach the research and analysis?
How do you ensure that your reporting upholds the highest journalistic standards and ethical considerations?
Tell us about a time when you had to balance the need for transparency with the potential risks involved in reporting sensitive information.
How do you approach interviewing subjects for investigative pieces? What strategies do you use to gather the necessary information?
What strategies do you use to engage and connect with your audience through your investigative reporting? Can you provide an example?
Tell us about a time when you collaborated with editors, photographers, and other journalists to produce a comprehensive investigative piece. How did you manage the collaborative process?
Describe a situation where you had to adapt your investigation strategy due to unforeseen circumstances or challenges. How did you handle it?
Describe a time when you had to make difficult decisions regarding the publication of information that could potentially harm individuals or organizations. How did you approach it?
Tell us about a time when you had to make decisions regarding the allocation of resources and budget for an investigation. How did you approach it?
How would you approach a situation where you encounter resistance or pushback from your superiors or colleagues regarding the direction of an investigative project?
Describe a time when you had to make difficult ethical decisions regarding the use of anonymous sources in your investigative work. How did you approach it?
Tell us about a time when you had to navigate a complex legal landscape to report on sensitive information. How did you approach the situation?
Tell us about a time when you faced challenges or obstacles during an investigation. How did you overcome them?
How do you develop a network of reliable sources? What strategies do you use?
Have you ever worked on a story that involved reporting sensitive information? How did you navigate the implications and potential risks?
Describe a situation where you encountered ethical dilemmas in your investigative work. How did you handle them?
How comfortable are you with working irregular hours and traveling for stories? Can you provide examples of times when you had to do so?
What steps do you take to verify the accuracy and reliability of information and sources in your investigative reporting?
How familiar are you with media law and ethics? Give an example of a situation where you had to navigate a complex legal landscape.
How comfortable are you with working irregular hours and traveling as needed for stories?
Can you discuss your experience with data analysis tools and techniques for investigative journalism?
How do you approach storytelling in your investigative pieces? What techniques do you use to engage and inform your audience?
Can you provide an example of a compelling story idea you have pitched to editors? How did you develop it into an investigative project?
Tell us about a time when your investigative reporting had a positive impact on a specific community or society as a whole. How did it bring about change?
What steps do you take to maintain your objectivity and avoid bias in your investigative reporting?
How do you gauge the impact and success of your investigative work? Can you give an example of a project that had a significant impact?
Can you provide an example of a story you have worked on that required multimedia and digital storytelling techniques? How did you approach it?
Tell us about your experience in analyzing and interpreting data and legal documents for investigative reporting.
How do you prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively when working on multiple investigative projects?
Describe a situation where you had to adapt your investigative approach or strategy based on new information or developments. How did you handle it?
What steps do you take to verify information and ensure the reliability of your sources?
How do you approach storytelling through multimedia and digital platforms in your investigative work? Can you give examples of projects you have worked on?
Describe a situation where you had to work with limited resources or constraints in your investigative reporting. How did you overcome them?
Can you discuss your experience with multimedia and digital storytelling? What tools and techniques do you use?
How do you navigate the potential risks and legal implications of reporting sensitive information?
Tell us about a time when you had to make decisions regarding the preservation and storage of evidence and data for an investigation. How did you approach it?
What motivates you to pursue investigative journalism? Why did you choose this career path?
Tell us about a time when you faced challenges or obstacles while conducting an investigation. How did you overcome them?
What are the key skills and qualities that a Senior Investigative Journalist needs in order to be successful?
Can you discuss your experience with using multimedia and digital storytelling techniques in your investigative work? What platforms or tools do you use?
Tell us about a time when you had to report on a sensitive topic that required careful handling and consideration of the potential consequences.
What strategies do you use to effectively communicate complex issues and findings to a wide audience? Can you give an example?
Tell us about a time when you had to make difficult decisions regarding the publication of sensitive information. How did you approach it?
What steps do you take to ensure the safety and security of yourself and your team while conducting investigations?
Describe a time when you had to handle multiple investigations simultaneously. How did you prioritize and manage your time effectively?
Describe a time when you used public records or FOIA requests in your investigative reporting. How did you utilize the information obtained?
Tell us about a situation where you had to work independently on a long-term investigation. How did you stay motivated and organized?
Describe a high-risk circumstance you have encountered while conducting an investigation. How did you handle it?
Tell us about a time when you had to meet tight deadlines while maintaining the quality and integrity of your investigative work.
Describe a situation where you had to handle confidential or sensitive information in your investigative reporting. How did you protect the information and ensure its security?
What strategies do you use to build and maintain relationships with sources? How do you ensure confidentiality and protect their identities?
How do you approach writing and editing your investigative pieces? What steps do you take to ensure clarity and coherence?
How do you balance the need for speed and timeliness with the need for thoroughness and accuracy in your investigative work?
Describe a situation where you had to handle highly sensitive information in your investigative reporting. How did you approach it and ensure its security?
Have you mentored and guided junior members of an investigative team before? If so, what was your approach?
How do you handle the pressure and responsibility of presenting factual and accurate information in your investigative reporting?
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