Open-Source Reporter, Visual Investigations (Temporary)

The New York Times•New York, NY

18h•$113,271 - $145,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The New York Times is seeking an exceptional journalist with extensive open-source reporting skills for a temporary role from late August or early September until the end of December 2026. The Visual Investigations team is looking for someone who can seize news moments and pursue a wide range of national and international topics. This role requires a strong track record in conducting investigations, cultivating sources, mining documents, analyzing visuals, and uncovering new information. The focus will be on ambitious investigative and explanatory work, primarily on competitive news stories but also on longer-term projects. The ideal candidate can take initiative on major stories, develop exclusive angles, find and vet visual evidence, connect dots around chaotic events, and use open-source skills to problem-solve, reveal new insights, provide clarity, and hold power to account. Experience turning findings into videos or video-driven text articles, in conjunction with video editors and motion-graphics producers, is valuable.

Requirements

5+ years of experience as an open-source researcher, reporter or investigator at a top news outlet, NGO, or digital investigative organization.
Proven ability to apply open-source research skills to map out critical incidents using visuals and other information.
Experience writing clearly and concisely to visual material on tight deadlines and during breaking news.
Strong portfolio of stories that demonstrate accountability and/or exclusivity.
Extensive experience as an open-source researcher, reporter or investigator at a top news outlet, NGO, or digital investigative organization.
Experience with Google Earth Pro, satellite imagery, and flight- and ship-tracking platforms.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated experience with developing original angles around highly competitive news events.
Familiarity with the video production process.
Programming skills or fluency in an additional language are a plus.
Willingness and flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed.
Strong time management skills and the ability to juggle multiple assignments at a time.
Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with others, including reporters from other desks in the newsroom

Responsibilities

Source audio-visual evidence from a variety of platforms.
Geolocate and chronolocate evidence.
Analyze satellite imagery and data.
Pitch reporting and coverage opportunities.
Demonstrate support and understanding of our value of journalistic independence and a strong commitment to our mission to seek the truth and help people understand the world.