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Investigative Reporter Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

$70 - $110/hr

Produce original enterprise and investigative content.* Respond quickly and effectively to breaking ... Provide editorial guidance and leadership to reporters and photographers assigned to bureau ...

New

$84.04/hr

Structural knowledge will provide a foundation to investigate how specific ncRNA-ligand complexes ... Design experiments to test ncRNA function in vitro or in vivo using reporter gene assays.Execution ...

New

$80 - $115/hr

Support pre-trial investigations, including evidence gathering and strategic case development.* **Resource Development**: Prepare articles, legal memoranda, and other resources for statewide ...

New

Investigative Reporter information

See Kentucky salary details

$4

$20

$26

How much do investigative reporter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for investigative reporter in Kentucky is $20.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an investigative reporter do?

An investigative reporter conducts interviews or research to help build their story. This type of journalism often focuses on one topic at a time and may require travel and irregular hours. In this career, you investigate multiple elements of a story and find various source options to obtain information. You might specialize in a niche, such as crime, politics, or even doing consumer research to see if products meet people’s expectations. Some reporters take photos to accompany their stories. You need basic computer skills to type up and format your story for publishing.

What does an investigative reporter do?

An Investigative Reporter is a journalist who specializes in uncovering information that is often hidden from the public. They conduct in-depth research, analyze data, interview sources, and follow leads to expose wrongdoing, corruption, or significant social issues. Their work often takes weeks or months and can involve complex subjects such as government, business, or crime. The goal is to inform the public and hold powerful individuals or organizations accountable.

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

To thrive as an Investigative Reporter, you need strong research, analytical, and writing skills, typically supported by a degree in journalism or communications. Familiarity with data analysis tools, public records databases, and digital research platforms is often required. Persistence, ethical judgment, and effective interpersonal communication distinguish outstanding investigative journalists. These skills and qualities are crucial for uncovering important stories, ensuring accuracy, and building trust with sources and audiences.

What are some common challenges investigative reporters face when working on complex stories?

Investigative reporters often encounter obstacles such as gaining access to reliable sources, verifying information from multiple perspectives, and handling legal or ethical considerations around sensitive topics. The process can be time-consuming and demanding, requiring persistence, discretion, and adaptability. Collaboration with editors, legal teams, and sometimes data analysts is key to ensuring stories are accurate, fair, and impactful while maintaining source confidentiality and journalistic integrity.

What is the difference between Investigative Reporter vs News Reporter?

AspectInvestigative ReporterNews Reporter
CredentialsJournalism degree, experience in investigative workJournalism degree, general reporting experience
Work EnvironmentResearch-heavy, often in offices or field investigationsOn-location, live reporting, newsroom
Employer & IndustryNews organizations, media outletsNews organizations, media outlets
Search & Comparison IntentInvestigative work, in-depth storiesBreaking news, daily reporting

Investigative reporters focus on in-depth research and uncovering hidden stories, often requiring specialized skills and longer-term projects. News reporters cover daily news events, providing timely updates. While both roles work within journalism and media industries, investigative reporters typically engage in more detailed, long-term investigations compared to the fast-paced nature of news reporting.

How much money does an investigative reporter make?

Investigative reporters typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, though this can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the media organization. Experienced investigative journalists working for major outlets or in large markets can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000 with additional benefits.

What degree is best for investigative reporter?

A bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field is typically preferred for investigative reporters. Strong research, writing skills, and familiarity with digital tools are also important for success in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Investigative Reporter jobs in Kentucky?

For Investigative Reporter jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Investigative Reporter jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Investigative Reporter jobs in Kentucky are:

What are popular job titles related to Investigative Reporter jobs in KY?

For Investigative Reporter jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Investigative Reporter job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,767 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

$70 - $110/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Nexstar Media Group rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 106 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 78 rated media


Job description

## Bureau ChiefApplylocations: TX, Brownsvilletime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: REQ-42568**Position Summary**The Bureau Chief serves as the lead journalist and newsroom representative for Hidalgo and Starr Counties in the Rio Grande Valley. This position is responsible for developing enterprise stories, managing daily news coverage, cultivating community sources, and ensuring the station is consistently reporting on the most important stories affecting this part of South Texas. The Bureau Chief works independently while maintaining close communication with newsroom leadership and collaborates with producers, assignment editors, photographers, and digital teams to deliver impactful content across all platforms.The ideal candidate is a strong storyteller, self-starter, and newsroom leader who can identify breaking news, generate exclusive content, and represent the station professionally within the community.The Bureau Chief will also train and mentor Content Creators, including reporters and videographers.**Essential Duties and Responsibilities****News Gathering & Reporting*** Lead coverage of news and events within the assigned bureau area.* Develop story ideas that are relevant, impactful, and important to local audiences.* Cultivate and maintain relationships with community leaders, public officials, law enforcement, businesses, schools, and key stakeholders.* Produce original enterprise and investigative content.* Respond quickly and effectively to breaking news.* Conduct interviews and gather information in person, by phone, and through digital resources.**Leadership & Coordination*** Serve as the station's primary representative in the Hidalgo and Starr Counties in South Texas.* Provide editorial guidance and leadership to reporters and photographers assigned to bureau coverage.* Coordinate daily coverage priorities with newsroom management.* Identify trends, issues, and stories that require sustained coverage.* Positive contribution to newsroom culture, collaboration, and audience growth.**Multimedia Content Production*** Shoot, write, and edit stories when necessary.* Deliver live reports from the field using mobile and broadcast technology.* Contribute content to station websites, streaming platforms, CTV, and social media channels.* Create digital-first content that enhances audience engagement.**Administrative Responsibilities*** Maintain equipment and vehicles.* Ensure all stories meet journalistic, ethical, legal, and company standards.* Meet all newsroom deadlines and productivity expectations.**Qualifications*** Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, or related field preferred.* Minimum 3-5 years of reporting experience preferred.* Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.* Strong live reporting and breaking news skills.* Exceptional writing, storytelling, and interviewing abilities.* Knowledge of AP style and broadcast journalism standards.* Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.* Strong organizational and time management skills.* Experience with newsroom technology, content management systems, editing software, and social media platforms.* Fluency in English and Spanish* Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.**Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities*** Strong news judgment and editorial decision-making.* Ability to identify, develop, and execute exclusive and enterprise stories.* Effective communication and leadership skills.* Ability to handle multiple assignments and tight deadlines.* Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.* Professional demeanor and strong community relations skills.* Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays as news coverage demands.* Ability to lift and carry broadcast equipment up to 40 pounds.* Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.* Ability to travel throughout the coverage area on a regular basis.* Ability to stand, walk, and remain in the field for extended periods.#Ll Onsite #J-18808-Ljbffr

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About Nexstar Media Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Headquartered in Irving, Texas, Nexstar Media Group, Inc. is the largest local broadcast television group in the United States and one of the world’s leading diversified media companies. In June 2023, Nexstar marked 27 years of excellence in local programming and service since Perry A. Sook founded the company. Nexstar owns, operates, programs or provides sales and other services to 200 broadcast stations (including partner stations) and their related low power and digital multicast signals reaching 116 markets or more than 68% of all U.S. television households. Coupled with a growing portfolio of digital media marketing, advertising and content management platforms, Nexstar delivers powerful and innovative digital solutions and services to local and national media companies, advertisers, agencies and brands.

Industry

Broadcasting

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1996

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