Summary:

The Mercury News has an opening for an accountability reporter, a key role on a collaborative regional enterprise team focused on writing the most important stories of the day for a smart, savvy, and diverse readership.

In the complex, interconnected world of politics, government, and civil society, you’ll keep a laser focus on transparency and holding the powerful to account in our public institutions. You should have strong storytelling chops, a bent toward investigative reporting, and the ability to dive into data analysis and public records to enhance your journalism and that of your team. You should be able to juggle quick hits and longer enterprise, aiming weekly for the centerpiece slot on our websites and the front page of our two daily newspapers, the Pulitzer Prize-winning Mercury News and the East Bay Times.

Please note: This position will report to our San Jose office and the individual is expected to complete field assignments anywhere in the Bay Area.

What you will do:

• Build deep sourcing across government, business, advocacy groups, and community organizations
• Pursue accountability reporting using documents, data, and public records
• Collaborate across the newsroom on high-impact coverage
• Report and publish across platforms in real time
• Write clean, engaging stories with clarity and authority
• Manage multiple stories under deadline pressure

What you will bring:

• Strong news judgment and a competitive drive
• A track record of producing reporting that goes beyond surface-level coverage
• Experience working sources, records, and data to uncover original stories
• Comfort reporting and publishing across digital platforms and social media
• At least five years of professional journalism experience, ideally including breaking news and government, housing, business, or accountability coverage
• Additional language skills are a plus

Benefits and Compensation:

The hourly range is $35.00 - $41.88 + cell phone stipend. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to geographic location, education, work experience, time in role, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, the Company offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, 401k, as well as paid time off and select paid holidays (all benefits are based on eligibility). Please click the following link for more detailed information: www.mymedianewsgroup.com

Who we are:

As the Bay Area's top source for local news, the Bay Area News Group reaches more than 5 million people weekly through a powerful combination of print and digital products. Our publications include The Mercury News serving Silicon Valley and the Peninsula; the East Bay Times serving Oakland, Walnut Creek, Pleasanton and the rest of the East Bay; and more than 20 weekly publications. We connect with a diverse and engaged audience, offering a premiere local news report and comprehensive advertising and marketing solutions across web, mobile and print platforms. The Bay Area News Group is a subsidiary of MediaNews Group, which has 49 Pulitzer Prizes and a nationwide audience, delivering award-winning content across 800 platforms and leading the transformation of the news industry.

“4x Built In Best Places to Work Winner - 2023-2026”

EEO Statement:

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

How To Apply:

• Please submit an online application along with your resume for this position here. In addition to your resume, please include a cover letter and 4 - 5 samples showcasing your best work.

Closing Date:

• Continuous recruitment until the position is filled

Conditions of Employment: 

• A full pre-employment background check and MVR will be conducted as part of the selection process. Must be willing to submit and pass the necessary required checks
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and have reliable transportation
• Travel – This position entails occasional driving for work assignments, in-person training sessions and/or meetings. The employee will be responsible for transporting themselves between different sites as needed
• Must be available for shift work. May be required to work various hours for coverage outside of normal business hours

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