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Investigative Journalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We specialize in high-profile political projects--including The Bulwark, Home of the Brave, and Republican Voters Against Trump--and we're looking for an Investigative Journalist to conduct deep-dive ...

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Investigative Reporter

Houston, TX · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

INVESTIGATIVE MEDIA JOURNALIST Full-Time Position Location: 1951 Richmond, Houston, TX 77098 EXPERIENCE : Broadcast news or print journalism experience as a reporter or special projects producer ...

We are looking for a self-driven, curious and tenacious journalist who knows how to dig beyond the surface of a story. The ideal candidate can develop original investigations, cultivate sources ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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.

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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How much do investigative journalist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for investigative journalist 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 an investigative journalist?

An Investigative Journalist researches and reports on complex issues, uncovering hidden truths through in-depth analysis, interviews, and document reviews. They often work on topics like corruption, crime, or social injustices, aiming to hold powerful individuals or organizations accountable. Their work requires strong analytical skills, persistence, and ethical responsibility to provide accurate and impactful stories.

What does an investigative journalist do?

A typical day for an Investigative Journalist often involves researching leads, conducting interviews, verifying facts, and drafting or editing stories. You may spend significant time analyzing documents, filing public records requests, and collaborating with editors or other reporters. The work can be both independent and highly collaborative, especially when projects require teamwork or legal review. Flexibility is key, as stories may require following up on emerging developments or adapting quickly to new information. The variety and depth of tasks make every day unique and intellectually engaging.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an investigative journalist?

To thrive as an Investigative Journalist, you need strong research abilities, excellent writing and fact-checking skills, and typically a degree in journalism or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, FOIA request procedures, and digital content management systems can be essential for more in-depth investigations. Persistence, ethical judgment, and the ability to build trust with sources are standout soft skills in this profession. These competencies are crucial for uncovering, reporting, and presenting complex stories accurately and responsibly.

Do investigative journalists get paid well?

Investigative journalists' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and employer, but they generally earn less than many other specialized professions. Entry-level positions may pay modestly, while experienced investigative reporters working for major outlets or in senior roles can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by freelance work or awards. Skills such as strong research, writing, and multimedia tools can influence earning potential.

How do you become an investigative journalist?

To become an investigative journalist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing strong research and reporting skills, and learning to use tools like data analysis software are essential steps in building a career in investigative journalism.

Is investigative journalism a declining field?

Investigative journalism remains an important but challenging field due to changes in media consumption and funding. While traditional outlets have faced layoffs, digital platforms and nonprofit organizations continue to seek skilled investigative reporters, emphasizing skills in research, data analysis, and multimedia tools.
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Infographic showing various Investigative Journalist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,090 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Investigative Journalist

Washington, DC • On-site

Longwell Partners
Public Relations Agencies • 11 - 50 employees

$60K - $85K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Longwell Partners is a full-service, pro-democracy communications firm based in Washington, DC. We specialize in high-profile political projects—including The Bulwark, Home of the Brave, and Republican Voters Against Trump—and we're looking for an Investigative Journalist to conduct deep-dive investigations into the organizations, funders, and networks shaping today's political landscape.


If you love digging into public records, following the money, and turning what you find into writing that holds people and organizations accountable, we want to hear from you.


About the Role


This role is for someone who can do it all: identify a thread worth pulling, dig until they've found everything there is to find, and write it up the way a skilled journalist would. You'll work closely with our communications team, but the writing starts with you. The ideal candidate has the research instincts of an investigator and the storytelling chops of a reporter.


Your Responsibilities


  • Conduct in-depth investigations into political actors, organizations, and donors, building research roadmaps, tracking key targets, and developing comprehensive written profiles.
  • Analyze IRS 990 filings, FEC disclosures, SEC records, state charity filings, corporate registrations, and other public data to track funding flows and surface key relationships.
  • Submit and interpret public records requests; know what to ask for, how to get it, and what to do with it once you have it.
  • Produce accurate, well-sourced long-form profiles, memos, and reports ready for use by communications and media partners.
  • Monitor relevant political news to identify emerging stories, new angles, and rapid-response opportunities.
  • Collaborate with the communications team to ensure findings reach journalists, independent media creators, and wide audiences.


What We're Looking For


  • 3+ years of experience in investigative journalism, political research, or a closely related field, with a demonstrated ability to take a story from initial research through a polished, long-form written product.
  • A portfolio of published or produced work that shows you can write with clarity, precision, and a strong sense of story.
  • Hands-on familiarity with research databases and public records, including LexisNexis, FEC databases, IRS filings, Secretary of State entity searches, SEC filings, and FOIA requests, or a demonstrated ability to learn fast.
  • Sharp political instincts and a firm grasp of the current political and advocacy landscape; you know the players, the networks, and how the game is played.
  • Meticulous attention to detail; you don't put your name on anything you can't back up.
  • A relentless approach to investigation. You find angles others miss and don't stop digging until you've exhausted every lead.
  • Ability to be in the office (downtown DC) five days a week. This is not a remote or hybrid opportunity.


Preferred Qualifications


  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
  • Experience with network mapping, financial analysis, or data tools that surface relationships across large datasets.
  • Comfortable using AI tools to make research faster and more thorough.
  • Background in political campaigns, advocacy, investigative journalism, or public interest work.
  • Familiarity with political nonprofit networks, undisclosed funding structures, and the broader constellation of politically active organizations on the left and right.


Why Join Us?


  • Salary range: $60,000 – $85,000, commensurate with experience
  • 401(k) matching program
  • 100% covered medical insurance
  • Metro-accessible, downtown DC location
  • Opportunities to learn, innovate, and advance within a mission-driven, high-performance team


How to Apply


Please send your resume, a brief cover letter, and writing samples to jobs@longwellpartners.com. In your cover letter, please tell us why you're interested in Longwell Partners and how your experience makes you a strong fit for this role. "Easy Apply" is not your friend here! We will consider email applications much more seriously than an Easy Apply application.


We look forward to hearing from you!