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Investigative Journalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Digital Remedy

Investigative Reporter

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$21.65 - $26.45/hr

This is the only Investigative News Team in Central NY (Syracuse DMA) and our "Point of Difference" coverage is aimed at Enriching Local Lives through the power of journalism. We're looking for ...

Amazon

Investigative Analyst, EPP - RITA

Seattle, WA · On-site

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree or equivalent, or 2+ years of military experience - 4+ years of demonstrated experience as an analyst/investigator/journalist supporting open-source research ...

Digital Remedy

Investigative Reporter

Axtell, NE

History of award-winning investigative journalism preferred While applying please provide an online portfolio / reel link for review. EEO AND INCLUSIVITY: Sinclair is proud to be an equal opportunity ...

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How much do investigative journalist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Investigative Journalist position, and why are they important?

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 professional roles. Entry-level positions may pay modestly, while experienced investigative journalists working for major outlets or in specialized fields can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by freelance work or awards. Skills such as research, writing, and multimedia reporting are essential in this role.

What is an Investigative Journalist job?

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 can investigative journalists do?

Investigative journalists research and uncover information on issues such as corruption, fraud, or social injustices. They analyze data, conduct interviews, and verify facts to produce in-depth reports that inform the public. Strong writing, research skills, and knowledge of ethical standards are essential in this role.

What does a typical day look like for an Investigative Journalist?

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.

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 interviewing skills, and proficiency with data analysis and reporting tools are essential steps in building a career in investigative journalism.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

Investigative journalists with extensive experience, strong investigative skills, and a track record of impactful reporting can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $150,000 annually, especially in senior roles or at major media organizations. High-paying media jobs often require advanced degrees, specialized knowledge, and the ability to produce exclusive, high-quality content that attracts large audiences or significant funding.
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What cities are hiring for Investigative Journalist jobs? Cities with the most Investigative Journalist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Investigative Journalist jobs? The most popular types of Investigative Journalist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Investigative Journalist jobs? The top employers for Investigative Journalist jobs are:
What states have the most Investigative Journalist jobs? States with the most job openings for Investigative Journalist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Investigative Journalist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Investigative Journalist jobs are:
Investigative Journalist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Investigative Journalist 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.
Investigative Reporter/Producer

Investigative Reporter/Producer

Hearst Television

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description


Investigative Reporter / Producer
WTAE-TV, the ABC affiliate in Pittsburgh, is looking for an Investigative Reporter / Producer who can lead impactful investigative journalism in an award-winning newsroom. This is a high-profile, enterprise role focused on uncovering consumer issues, exposing wrongdoing, holding institutions accountable, and producing compelling special projects that make a real difference in our community.
We are looking for a journalist who thrives on digging deeper, asking tough questions, and creating meaningful, promotable storytelling across broadcast, digital, streaming, and social platforms. The ideal candidate is equally strong as a reporter and producer - someone who can originate investigations, collaborate across departments, and help execute stories weekly from concept to completion.
This role requires a self-starter who can develop exclusive content, cultivate sources, manage multiple projects, and produce stories that lead newscasts and drive audience engagement. The right applicant should have a portfolio of journalism that leads to change, conversation, and community impact.
The Investigative Reporter / Producer will report to the Assistant News Director and work closely with newsroom leadership, producers, digital teams, and photojournalists.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and report original investigative and consumer-focused stories that uncover scams, systemic failures, public accountability concerns, and issues affecting viewers' daily lives
  • Generate strong enterprise story ideas and pursue stories that go beyond surface-level reporting
  • Conduct informed interviews, build trusted sources, and break exclusive stories
  • Plan, gather, write, and assemble stories for daily news coverage and long-form investigative projects
  • Respond to breaking news with investigative angles and deeper context
  • Build compelling live shots and deliver clear, engaging storytelling on-air and across platforms
  • Work independently or collaboratively with photographers to gather and edit compelling video and sound
  • Pitch, research, write, and produce investigative specials and long-form storytelling initiatives
  • Maintain and manage a calendar of special projects, follow-ups, and ongoing investigations
  • Collaborate with newsroom leadership, producers, promotions, legal, and digital teams to maximize story impact and audience reach
  • Review scripts, teases, and story elements to ensure strong editorial standards and compelling presentation
  • Produce content for broadcast, streaming, digital, and social platforms
  • Contribute real-time updates, explainers, and follow-ups across mobile and social channels
  • Work closely with reporters, producers, photojournalists, and digital staff on investigative initiatives
  • Communicate effectively across departments while managing multiple deadlines and priorities
  • Demonstrate sound editorial judgment, strong ethics, and unwavering journalistic integrity

Requirements
  • Professional reporting and/or producing experience
  • Strong investigative, enterprise, and accountability journalism instincts
  • Proven ability to develop original story ideas and uncover meaningful details
  • A demo reel and/or digital portfolio that reflect everyday work and impactful storytelling
  • Strong writing skills with the ability to simplify complex information into compelling, easy-to-understand content
  • Knowledge of media law, public records requests, and investigative research techniques
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and time management skills
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines
  • Experience using modern field technology, editing systems, and mobile workflows
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced newsroom environment
  • Strong visual storytelling and creative presentation skills
  • Ability to work varied shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed
  • Valid driver's license and clear driving record
  • Related military experience will be considered

Values in Action
At Hearst Television we tell stories every day. Stories about people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and identities. That's why, behind the scenes, we believe in being an organization that fosters collaboration and open communication, ensuring that the content we create is authentic, accurate, and connected to the communities we serve.
Benefits
Hearst's benefit programs are modern, flexible and designed to focus on you. As a Hearst employee, you and your spouse or partner or dependents would have access to the following benefits.
  • Medical | Dental | Vision
  • 401(k) matching
  • Emotional Wellness Support
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • LGBTQ+ Health Services
  • Additional benefits to meet your and your family's needs

About Us
Hearst Television (HTV) owns and/or operates 35 television and two radio stations serving 27 media markets across 39 states reaching over 22 million U.S. television households. HTV is recognized as one of the industry's premier broadcasting companies and has been honored with numerous awards for distinguished journalism, industry innovation, and community service.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. we do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, creed, national, origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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