Investigative Reporter

EdSource, a nonprofit organization with the largest team of education reporters in California, is seeking an investigative reporter to focus on postsecondary education and the challenges students face in gaining access to and succeeding in college and the workplace. With a mix of longform investigative pieces, as well as in-depth enterprise stories, the reporter will highlight key developments in colleges and universities, that serve the most students, in particular the California State University and California’s community colleges.

We are looking for a creative and experienced reporter with a knack for distilling complex topics and education jargon into clear, compelling in-depth and watchdog stories that shed new light on major issues and trends in higher education.

The reporter must have excellent news judgment and bring a strong watchdog focus to his or her reporting. Writing for EdSource provides an unusual opportunity to write on the most significant changes occurring in public education, at a time of upheaval and transformation at all levels of the system.

The successful candidate will join an influential and growing organization widely recognized as the most authoritative source of education reporting in a state with the nation’s largest system of public education. Articles are published online, in daily email newsletters, as well as in other outlets through partnerships with a range of news organizations.

The position will be based in Oakland at EdSource’s headquarters or in its Los Angeles bureau, although initially the reporter may work remotely due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

Qualifications:

• At least 5 years of professional reporting experience, preferably working with a daily journalism publication;
• Ability to analyze data, and bring depth and understanding to complex education topics;
• Excellent writing skills, along with the ability to report aggressively and place issues within a statewide and national context;
• Creative self-starter who is eager to explore new ways of covering issues in education through multimedia digital formats;
• Ability to use open records laws to obtain records and data;
• Strong digital skills a plus;
• Experience in education reporting preferred but not required;
• Proven ability to work independently under deadline pressures
• Commitment to working collaboratively.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Write lively and knowledgeable stories in a variety of styles and formats, although the principal focus will be on investigative reporting;
• Maintain an active online presence, as well as develop new ways to build an audience.
• Other duties as assigned.

Along with the opportunity to do meaningful work with a team of experienced journalists, EdSource offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a range of medical plans, a retirement savings plan, generous vacation leave and paid holidays, as well as professional development opportunities.

To Apply:

Send a cover letter, resume and provide contact information for three references, as well as links to your social media accounts and links to, or attachments of, four to six examples of your written/digital work to [email protected]. Please include the job title in subject line.