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Investigative Journalism Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Baltimore Sun

Investigative Editor

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Lead and mentor a team of investigative journalists, setting editorial priorities and maintaining high standards of accuracy, credibility, and impact. * Identify opportunities for investigative ...

Digital Remedy

Investigative Reporter

Charleston, SC · On-site

WCIV seeks an enterprising and aggressive reporter to join our team of journalists. We are looking ... Identify and pitch investigative angles to big daily news stories * Work closely with Producer and ...

The New York Times

Local Investigations Fellow

Ability to bring a new perspectives to investigative journalism Learn more about the program here. To apply, upload a résumé, Cover Letter (as described below) and five clips in one attachment.

Baltimore Sun

Investigative Journalist

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. * 3+ years of investigative reporting, preferably in daily journalism; editing experience a plus. * Willing to work irregular hours and holidays as needed.

Digital Remedy

Investigative Reporter/Anchor

Bristol, VA · On-site

$18.70 - $22/hr

Investigative Reporter/Anchor WCYB/WEMT is seeking an experienced, enterprising, and relentless ... We are looking for a journalist who is passionate about uncovering impactful stories, holding those ...

Hearst

Investigative Reporter/Producer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

Investigative Reporter / Producer WTAE-TV, the ABC affiliate in Pittsburgh, is looking for an ... We are looking for a journalist who thrives on digging deeper, asking tough questions, and creating ...

Hearst

Investigative Reporter/Producer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

Investigative Reporter / Producer WTAE-TV, the ABC affiliate in Pittsburgh, is looking for an ... We are looking for a journalist who thrives on digging deeper, asking tough questions, and creating ...

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Investigative Journalism information

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$23

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How much do investigative journalism jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for investigative journalism in the United States is $23.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Investigative Journalism vs News Reporting?

AspectInvestigative JournalismNews Reporting
CredentialsJournalism degree, investigative reporting experienceJournalism degree, reporting experience
Work EnvironmentResearch-heavy, in-depth investigationsFast-paced, on-the-spot reporting
Employer & IndustryMedia outlets, newspapers, magazinesNews agencies, TV stations, online media
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding investigative vs general reportingClarifying roles in journalism

Investigative journalism focuses on in-depth research and uncovering hidden truths, often requiring extensive investigation. News reporting involves delivering timely news updates and covering current events quickly. While both roles require journalism skills, investigative journalism demands more research and analytical skills, whereas news reporting emphasizes speed and accuracy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Investigative Journalist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Investigative Journalist, you need strong research abilities, critical thinking, and a background in journalism or communications, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with data analysis tools, public records databases, and digital security practices is typically required. Persistence, ethical judgment, and excellent written and verbal communication are vital soft skills for uncovering and reporting complex stories. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate, impactful investigations that hold institutions accountable and inform the public.

What is investigative journalism?

Investigative journalism is a form of journalism in which reporters deeply research a single topic of interest, such as serious crimes, political corruption, or corporate wrongdoing. It often involves gathering and analyzing large amounts of information, interviewing sources, and sometimes even going undercover to uncover facts that are not easily accessible to the public. The goal is to reveal information that is of significant public interest and to hold powerful individuals or organizations accountable. Investigative journalists must be persistent, detail-oriented, and committed to ethical standards in order to provide accurate, impactful reporting.

What are some common challenges investigative journalists face when conducting in-depth reporting?

Investigative journalists often encounter obstacles such as limited access to information, uncooperative sources, and legal or ethical considerations when handling sensitive data. Protecting source confidentiality and verifying facts rigorously are essential but can be time-consuming. Additionally, investigative work usually requires collaboration with editors, legal teams, and sometimes data analysts to ensure stories are both accurate and publishable. Navigating these challenges demands persistence, strong research skills, and a commitment to ethical journalism.
More about Investigative Journalism jobs
What cities are hiring for Investigative Journalism jobs? Cities with the most Investigative Journalism job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Investigative Journalism jobs? The most popular types of Investigative Journalism jobs are:
What states have the most Investigative Journalism jobs? States with the most job openings for Investigative Journalism jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Investigative Journalism jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Investigative Journalism jobs are:
Investigative Journalism jobs near you
Infographic showing various Investigative Journalism job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,090 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Executive Producer, Journalism and Production

O'Keefe Media Group

West Palm Beach, FL • On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
The Senior Producer, Journalism and Investigations will lead the development, coordination, and execution of high-impact news stories and video packages from concept through post-production. This role requires strong editorial judgment, production expertise, and leadership skills to oversee a team of journalists, field producers, editors, and videographers. The ideal candidate thrives under pressure, operates with journalistic integrity, and has a passion for truth-telling.
Key Responsibilities
  • Editorial Oversight
  • Oversee investigative journalism and American Swiper efforts.
  • Develop story ideas, vet leads, and guide editorial direction in collaboration with executive leadership.
  • Ensure accuracy, fairness, and legal compliance in all reporting.
  • Add outside elements, such as subject matter experts, to stories as they develop.
  • Production Management
  • Supervise the production pipeline from storyboarding to final cut.
  • Coordinate pre-production planning, field shoots, and post-production.
  • Oversee run-of-show documents, timelines, and deadlines for all news packages.
  • Team Leadership
  • Manage a team of field producers, journalists, editors, and videographers.
  • Provide coaching and feedback to maintain high performance and quality control.
  • Foster a fast-paced, collaborative environment centered on editorial excellence and mission alignment.
  • Operational Coordination
  • Work closely with legal, communications, and digital publishing teams.
  • Help schedule shoots, allocate resources, and coordinate with external contributors and whistleblowers.
  • Review for quality control and approve video packages before publication.

Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience as a news producer, senior journalist, or investigative producer.
  • Proven ability to manage editorial teams and video production workflows.
  • Strong storytelling instincts and command of news judgment.
  • Experience managing projects under tight deadlines and evolving priorities.
  • Technical familiarity with video editing, camera setups, lighting, and production software is a plus.
  • Commitment to the First Amendment and investigative journalism.

Preferred Skills
  • Experience producing viral video content or undercover investigations.
  • Knowledge of legal and ethical standards in journalism.
  • Ability to think strategically about audience engagement and narrative framing.
  • Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.

Apply