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Research Journalism Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Counterintelligence Officer

Springfield, VA · On-site

$49K - $65K/yr

Possess a Bachelor's degree in National Intelligence Studies, Law Enforcement, History, Analysis/Research, Journalism, Political Science, Library Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field ...

Counterintelligence Officer

Springfield, VA · On-site

$49K - $65K/yr

Possess a Bachelor's degree in National Intelligence Studies, Law Enforcement, History, Analysis/Research, Journalism, Political Science, Library Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field ...

Possess a Bachelor's degree in National Intelligence Studies, Law Enforcement, History, Analysis/Research, Journalism, Political Science, Library Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field ...

Senior Research Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

This is what the Institute for Justice's Strategic Research team does every day, creating data-driven research used by journalists, lawmakers, advocates, and courts to bring light to government abuse ...

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Research Journalism information

See Virginia salary details

$44.6K

$82.4K

$156.1K

How much do research journalism jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for research journalism in Virginia is $82,435.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $91,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is research journalism?

A Research Journalism job involves investigating, analyzing, and reporting on complex topics by gathering credible sources, verifying facts, and presenting in-depth stories. Research journalists focus on uncovering hidden or overlooked information, often working on data-driven reports, investigative pieces, or long-form journalism. Their work may involve interviews, public records requests, and extensive fact-checking to ensure accuracy and credibility.

What skills and qualifications are needed for research journalism?

To thrive in Research Journalism, you need strong investigative abilities, excellent writing and editing skills, and a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, content management systems, and multimedia research platforms is often required. Critical thinking, persistence, and the ability to communicate complex findings clearly are key soft skills. These competencies are crucial for accurately uncovering, analyzing, and reporting information that informs and engages the public.

What are common challenges faced by research journalists, and how are they addressed?

Research journalists often face the challenge of verifying sources, gaining access to reliable data, and balancing deadlines with the thoroughness of their investigations. To address these issues, they employ rigorous fact-checking methods, collaborate with subject-matter experts, and use advanced research tools to corroborate information. Working under tight deadlines can be intense, but effective time management and support from experienced editorial teams can help ensure high-quality output. Many organizations also offer training and mentorship to help research journalists navigate ethical dilemmas and complex reporting topics. This fosters a supportive environment where professional growth and journalistic integrity are prioritized.

How do you become a research journalist?

To become a research journalist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field, along with strong research, writing, and analytical skills. Gaining experience through internships, developing expertise in investigative techniques, and mastering tools like data analysis software can enhance your qualifications for this role.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Research Journalism jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Research Journalism job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Journalism job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,435 per year, or $39.6 per hour.

Counterintelligence Officer

Springfield, VA • On-site


MANTECH
IT Services • 5 - 10K employees

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 246 rated software companies

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$49K - $65K/yr

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Counterintelligence Officer to join our team in Springfield, VA.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct defensive CI operations to protect missions, personnel, programs, technology, and information systems from intelligence, terrorism, and espionage threats.
  • Research, gather, evaluate, and interpret all-source information to identify and analyze intelligence, terrorism, and espionage threats against organizational and national systems.
  • Provide comprehensive CI analyses and threat forecasts for distribution to DoD and the broader Intelligence Community (IC).
  • Apply advanced analytical tools (e.g., M3, Palantir, TAC, ARCSIGHT, RSA Security Analytics, CCD, TIDE) to detect and assess anomalous activities.
  • Facilitate extensive liaison and information sharing with government components, DoD, the IC, and law enforcement to support CI activities.
  • Conduct foreign contact and travel debriefings, produce critical reports like Supply Chain Risk Assessments and Intelligence Information Reports (IIRs), and provide CI expertise for personnel security adjudications.
  • Provide technical CI expertise and support for vulnerability mitigation, Research and Technology Protection (RTP) initiatives, and Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM) policies.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Possess a Bachelor’s degree in National Intelligence Studies, Law Enforcement, History, Analysis/Research, Journalism, Political Science, Library Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field.
  • 7+ years of counterintelligence (CI) experience.
  • Experience with foundational defensive CI, including conducting investigations, inquiries, collections, operations, analysis, briefings, debriefings, training, and awareness.
  • Be a credentialed graduate of an accredited federal or DoD CI training academy (e.g., FBI Academy).
  • Demonstrate experience delivering routine and specialized CI briefings to internal and external audiences across strategic, operational, and tactical levels.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Possess a Master’s degree in National Intelligence Studies, Law Enforcement, History, Analysis/Research, Journalism, Political Science, Library Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field.
  • Experience participating in and supporting IC-directed damage assessment task forces for unauthorized disclosures or loss of classified information.
  • Demonstrated expertise in integrating CI into organizational Supply Chain Risk Management policies and initiatives.

Clearance Requirements

  • Active TS/SCI with the ability to obtain/maintain a polygraph  

Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time.
  • Needs to occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc.
  • Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a printer or copy machine.
  • Frequently communicates with co-workers, management, and customers, which may involve delivering presentations; must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.


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