Data and Interactives Journalist

Description:

The Illinois Answers Project is seeking a skilled and creative Data and Interactives Journalist to elevate our investigative and accountability journalism. This role is ideal for a reporter or editor who is passionate about using data as a powerful tool for public service journalism. You will lead or support the data component of high-impact investigations, collaborate with reporters and guide the newsroom’s use of data to uncover wrongdoing, highlight disparities, inform the public and showcase potential solutions. Must be open to exploring solutions-focused journalism (training will be provided). You also can work on your own data-driven projects. This is a Chicago-based hybrid position that requires at least two days in-office weekly and attendance at some organization events. This position reports to the Editor-in-chief.  

About the Illinois Answers Project:
The Illinois Answers Project is an award-winning nonprofit newsroom committed to in-depth journalism that brings transparency, accountability, and equity to public systems across Chicago and Illinois. We are published by the Better Government Association. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• At least 7 years of experience in data journalism.
  Proficiency in one or more programming languages and libraries (Python, R, JavaScript, SQL, pandas etc.) used in data analysis or visualization.
• Strong understanding of statistics and statistical analysis. 
• Proficiency in HTML and/or backend web development to create web graphics and interactives. 
• Familiarity with FOIA processes, ethics of data journalism and statistical analysis.
  Experience working with large, messy or incomplete datasets, and comfort translating complex findings into clear narratives.
• A portfolio that demonstrates investigative or data-driven stories.
  A collaborative spirit and interest in mentoring others on data skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Help conceive and oversee the data journalism strategy for the newsroom 
• Mentor or support staff reporters who are learning to work with data in their investigations.
• Report and analyze data to support long-term investigative projects and shorter-term accountability stories.
• Acquire, clean, analyze, and visualize datasets, using statistical and programming tools such as Python, R, SQL, Excel, and GIS.
• Create dynamic and/or interactive visualizations to present complex data and information.
• Collaborate closely with reporters and editors to help shape story pitches and develop reporting angles based on data insights.
• Guide or execute FOIA and public records requests for datasets and documentation that support investigations.
• Develop and maintain data pipelines and tools for projects that rely on large or recurring datasets.
• Verify the accuracy and transparency of data methodology in all published work.

Bonus Skills (not required):

• Experience with geospatial tools (QGIS, ArcGIS, etc.).
• Familiarity with version control (Git) and reproducible research practices.
  Ability to build news apps.
  Bilingual reporting or data skills, especially Spanish. 

Compensation and Benefits:
This is a full-time position with a competitive nonprofit salary and benefits package, including health insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, paid parental leave, and a retirement savings match. The salary range for this role is $80,000 to $100,000, commensurate with experience. This position is represented by SAG-AFTRA.

We encourage applicants from traditionally underrepresented communities, including people of color, LGBTQ+ people and people with disabilities. The Better Government Association is an equal opportunity employer. We’re committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness for all employees. We welcome the unique contributions you can bring in terms of education, opinions, culture, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity and expression, nation of origin, age, languages spoken, veteran status, color, religion, disability, sexual orientation and beliefs.

To Apply:
Apply via our application form. Select “Data & Interactives Journalist” from the drop-down menu.

Please submit the following:

• A resume and brief cover letter explaining your interest and relevant experience.
• Links to 2–3 published projects you’ve worked on, with a short note about your role in each.
• Optional: GitHub or portfolio site links.

Deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, but priority will be given to those submitted by Aug. 29. Applicants moving forward in the process will be contacted. We regret that we cannot respond to all applicants individually.

Apply

https://bettergov.formstack.com/forms/illinois_answers_application