Investigative Reporter

Date Posted	January 13, 2026
Industry	Newspapers
Specialty	Investigative
Job Status	Full-time
Salary	$63,000-$67,000

Description:

Investigative Reporter

Location: Based in Austin or Central Texas area.

Compensation: $63,000-$67,000, commensurate with experience. The job is fulltime.

Experience: Minimum of 3 years of professional reporting experience, preferably with a proven record in investigative or enterprise journalism.

Position Overview

We are seeking a self-starting, enterprising reporter dedicated to original, revelatory journalism that informs and empowers the Austin and Central Texas community. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record of impactful reporting and a deep commitment to ethical, accurate journalism, using diverse sources. That person will pursue ambitious stories — from scrutinizing local government transparency and exploring the effects of rapid growth on communities of color, to uncovering climate and environmental challenges in a technology hub and exposing cronyism or corruption.

Responsibilities

• Develop and produce in-depth investigative and enterprise stories that elevate hidden or underserved issues.

• Balance a mix of long-form investigations and timely, shorter-term reporting.

• Nationalize local stories or localize national trends.

• Identify and obtain relevant data and public records; analyze findings for meaningful insights.

• Craft clear, compelling nut graphs and narrative structures.

• Work closely and collaboratively with editors, data specialists, and other reporters.

• Conduct deep research with strong analytical and interpretive skills.

• Prioritize accuracy, fairness, and ethical standards with excellent news judgment.

Requirements

• Some experience covering local, state, or federal government.

• Solid writing, reporting, and storytelling skills.

• Demonstrated expertise in using data and public records in reporting.

• Ability to identify and develop exclusive, consequential stories — especially those overlooked by others.

• Nimble multitasker comfortable in a dynamic, fast-paced news environment.

• Solid interpersonal skills; works well in a collaborative environment.

• Some familiarity with Austin and Texas public affairs is a plus.

About Austin Free Press

Austin Free Press is a fast-growing, independent news organization led by a nationally award-winning journalist with four decades of experience. Now two years old, our mission is to hold power accountable, shine a light on overlooked issues, and provide watchdog reporting on challenges facing underserved communities. Austin Free Press is dedicated to building a newsroom that reflects the communities we serve.

To Apply

Please send a resume, three samples of your investigative/enterprise work, and a brief cover letter explaining why you want to join our newsroom to contact@austinfreepress.org.