News Team Staff Researcher

Summary

Join Ballotpedia's News Team as a full-time, 100% remote Staff Researcher. You will monitor sources for breaking news, update articles, maintain database accuracy, conduct research, and generate neutral, concise content. The ideal candidate is passionate about politics, possesses strong research and writing skills, and thrives in a collaborative environment. Responsibilities include data accuracy checks, content generation, and interacting with colleagues and the public. The position requires political knowledge, database experience, and excellent communication skills. Ballotpedia offers a flexible work environment with unlimited vacation and a benefits stipend.

Requirements

• A demonstrated passion for Ballotpedia’s mission
• Knowledge of the United States' political system and elections
• Experience working with databases and spreadsheets
• Experience in writing and/or editing (with experience as a professional writer and/or editor preferred)
• Superb organizational skills and a focus on detail
• Self-awareness and a drive toward constant improvement
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• A desire to work collaboratively with Ballotpedia staff from multiple departments
• Strong project management skills and the ability to multitask, set priorities, and follow through
• A drive for innovation and flexibility, and an ability to identify and solve problems proactively
• A willingness to work periodic evenings and weekends

Responsibilities

• Monitor a specific list of sources to identify breaking news updates, including media and political websites, and official government sources
• Update relevant articles based on identified stories
• Work extensively within Ballotpedia’s database to track and update information
• Ensure data accuracy on-site and in the database
• Conduct regular reviews (or “sweeps”) of lists of officeholders and candidates at the federal, state, and local levels of government to ensure Ballotpedia’s data is accurate
• Follow carefully laid out processes, systems, and procedures as assigned by editors and supervisors
• Generate content about complex topics in a neutral, clear, and concise manner
• Conduct systematic research to collect data related to officeholders, candidates, and elections. Data points will include but are not limited to campaign or official website addresses, social media handles, and upcoming election dates
• Proofread content effectively, efficiently, and consistently
• Interact with co-workers, customers, and the media in a professional, helpful, and pleasant manner
• Conduct research about jurisdictions not currently receiving detailed coverage on Ballotpedia for potential inclusion on our site and in our database
• Complete designated tracking spreadsheets to capture the number and types of updates that are made over time

Preferred Qualifications

Interest in or experience using AI tools to increase productivity

Benefits

• The starting pay range for the News Team Staff Researcher is $42,500-$44,000, commensurate with experience
• In addition to salary, Ballotpedia offers an annual benefits stipend equivalent to $8,000 that is paid out in equal increments in each paycheck once an employee becomes benefits eligible
• The stipend may be used to pay for a full benefits package, including health, vision, and dental insurance; retirement accounts; and more
• If benefits are not elected, the stipend is taxed as regular income and added to salary
• Ballotpedia offers a flexible work environment, BP Flex, which allows every employee to enjoy unlimited vacation and flexibility in scheduling