Computational Journalist

As a Computational Journalist at ProPublica, your primary responsibilities include finding and building data to uncover critical stories, conducting thorough analyses to identify bias and other harmful influences, and developing impactful investigative projects that utilize both data analysis and traditional reporting techniques. You'll collaborate with talented journalists, ensuring that your methodologies are well-documented and reproducible for transparency and credibility.

To excel as a Computational Journalist at ProPublica, you should have at least four years of experience managing data projects focused on accountability within a newsroom. Proficiency in coding with tools like Python, R, or Google BigQuery is essential, along with a solid understanding of data analysis methodologies and best practices in data journalism.

ProPublica is deeply committed to diversity and inclusion in our hiring practices for the Computational Journalist role and beyond. We encourage candidates from traditionally underrepresented communities to apply, including women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with disabilities. We recognize that diverse perspectives strengthen our journalism, and we aim to build a newsroom that reflects the communities we serve.

As a Computational Journalist at ProPublica, you can expect to engage in a variety of exciting and impactful projects. This includes analyzing vast datasets to expose systemic issues, building data pipelines for ongoing investigations, and even launching quick-turnaround scoops as well as long-term projects that require in-depth research and field reporting. The potential for creativity and innovation in storytelling is vast!

Yes! At ProPublica, we welcome remote applicants for the Computational Journalist position. While our headquarters are in New York City, we value flexibility and understand that talented individuals can work from various locations across the U.S. Whether you prefer working from home or joining us in office, you'll be part of a collaborative and inclusive team.

When answering this question, be sure to detail specific projects you've worked on that showcase your data analysis skills. Discuss the types of data sets you've handled, the methods you used to analyze them, and the stories that emerged from that work. Highlight your familiarity with tools like R, Python, or other data analysis software.

To effectively answer this question, explain your process for evaluating potential projects based on urgency, public interest, and available data. Share anecdotes that illustrate your ability to stay organized and manage multiple projects simultaneously while assuring quality and thoroughness in your work.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame your response. Describe the data challenge you faced, the specific steps you took to resolve it, and the positive impacts on your project or team outcome. Emphasize your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Discuss the importance of teamwork in journalism, particularly how working collaboratively leads to richer storytelling. Share examples of successful collaborations you've had with journalists or data specialists, emphasizing communication and shared goals.

Explain your strategies for verifying data sources, including cross-referencing information, employing critical analysis of the data's origin, and maintaining meticulous documentation of your methodologies. Show the interviewers your commitment to journalistic integrity.

Share resources such as websites, journals, or communities you follow to stay updated on trends in data journalism and tech advancements. This could include online courses, webinars, or attending relevant conferences. Mentioning personal passion projects can showcase your proactive nature.

In your response, detail recent projects where web scraping has been necessary. Discuss the tools you used, the challenges you faced, and the valuable insights obtained through web scraping. This showcases practical skills and the application of technology in journalism.

Highlight your ability to simplify complex information without diluting its essence. Discuss methodologies for creating engaging narratives, such as using visuals, relatable analogies, and clear language to convey the significance of your findings to the general public.

Tailor your answer to showcase knowledge about ProPublica's mission, values, and notable projects. Discuss your enthusiasm for accountability journalism and how your skills align with the organization's goals, emphasizing your desire to contribute to impactful storytelling.

Use the STAR method to share a specific experience detailing how you adapted to a changing project. Highlight your flexibility, critical problem-solving skills, and how your ability to pivot allows for continued productivity and successful outcomes.