Data Journalist

Description:

Newsworks Lab, a groundbreaking public-benefit newsroom for investigative reporting, seeks a data journalist who can make sense of complicated data to identify and deliver compelling narratives. The ideal candidate can quickly translate complex data sets into relevant public-accountability journalism and present their findings in compelling and innovative ways. The lab demands fast-paced, enterprise journalism, and the data journalist will be expected to pitch story ideas, support reporting across other regional newsrooms, and train others in the basics of data investigation.

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

The data journalist must be have: 

• 2–5 years of experience in journalism, data analysis, or a related field
• Proficiency in at least one programming language (Python or R preferred)
• Strong skills in spreadsheet analysis (Excel, Google Sheets)
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Datawrapper, Tableau)
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex data into clear narratives
• Familiarity with public records and open-data sources

Preferred skills include: 

• Experience with GIS or mapping tools
• Knowledge of web development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
• Experience with investigative or accountability reporting
• 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 and analysis of data from open records
• 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.