Enterprise Journalist

Description:

Enterprise Journalist – Newsworks Lab  

The enterprise journalist at Newsworks Lab lives by the motto of never picking up a press release or attending a press conference (unless it’s to find a source or hear an outcome of their own reporting). Instead, this person develops original story ideas by developing sources, being radically curious and using critical-thinking skills. The lab demands fast-paced, enterprise journalism, and the enterprise journalist will pitch and execute original story ideas, collaborate with reporters across the region and interact closely with audiences. 

Every member of the Newsworks Lab team must possess baseline skills along with a unique superpower that enhances overall team strength. Together, we will innovate, fail or succeed quickly, and learn through iteration. Our shared goal is redefining local news for audiences today and into the future. 

In addition to excellent reporting and communications skills, ideal candidates are adept at: 

• Delivering content across platforms (social and virtual)

• Meeting audiences IRL where they are (community meetings, coffee shops, county fair, etc.) 

• Developing enterprising news ideas after talking with people

• Seeing potential sources and stories in every day activities

• Having a competitive, yet collaborative spirit, that demands the best of themselves while inspiring others 

The enterprise journalist must have: 

• 3-5 years of demonstrated experience in journalism based on source development, curiosity and critical thinking

• Ability to translate complex ideas into simple, easily digested content that incorporates writing, photography, videos, audio and more

• Comfort appearing on camera, in front of audiences, and in one-on-one conversations with sources

• Willingness to think creatively to implement creative strategies with the goal of quickly failing or succeeding to learn through iteration

Preferred skills include: 

• Experience with datajournalism tools

• Understanding of regional issues in western Pennsylvania

What is Newsworks Lab? 

Newsworks Lab is a public benefit company dedicated to investigative reporting in western Pennsylvania. Funded by Trib Total Media and guided by the belief that the news ecosystem is stronger together, its mission is to provide rigorous, open-source journalism that strengthens democracy through innovative storytelling, data-driven reporting, and regional collaboration. The lab is based within Pittsburgh’s North Shore entertainment district. 

What you’ll do:

• Develop enterprise and investigative story ideas based on source development 

• Produce enterprise and investigative journalism in short, digestible bites that build audience interest and sourcing over time

• Deliver interactive and easily digestible journalism across multiple platforms that includes writing, photographs, videos, graphics and audio

• Interact with audiences across social media platforms and in real life to hear community concerns, develop story ideas with the public and deliver content

• Work closely with other members of the Newsworks Lab team and journalists across western Pennsylvania in university, community and niche-audience newsrooms

• Redefine local news by developing innovative, community-engaged ways of gathering information, developing story ideas and interacting with audiences

Interested candidates should apply at jobs@newsworkslab.com . A cover letter, at least three samples of your work, and at least five general story ideas are required. If you have questions about this position, email Andrew Conte, editor and director, at info@newsworkslab.com.  

Trib Total Media and Newsworks Lab are Equal Opportunity Employers and encourage all qualified candidates to apply.