Investigative Journalist

About the Role

Crossing Hurdles is seeking a meticulous and driven Investigative Journalist to join our growing editorial team in a remote, contract capacity. We believe in the power of truth to overcome barriers, and we are looking for a storyteller who is not afraid to dig deep into complex subjects to uncover the facts that matter. In this role, you will have the unique opportunity to lead impactful investigations from conception to publication, working within a flexible framework that respects your professional autonomy. You will play a vital role in shaping our editorial voice by delivering high-quality, long-form content that resonates with a global audience, challenges the status quo, and holds powerful institutions accountable for their actions. We value curiosity, persistence, and a commitment to journalistic excellence above all else.

• Conduct thorough and exhaustive research into diverse subject matters, utilizing both primary and secondary sources to build comprehensive and evidence-based narratives.
• Cultivate and maintain a robust network of reliable sources, ensuring the protection of sensitive information and the anonymity of whistleblowers when necessary.
• Execute high-level fact-checking and verification processes to maintain the absolute integrity and accuracy of every story published under the Crossing Hurdles banner.
• Draft compelling, well-structured long-form articles and investigative reports that engage readers while adhering to strict professional journalistic standards.
• Collaborate closely with the editorial board and legal team to navigate the complex ethical and legal landscapes associated with high-stakes investigative reporting.
• Monitor emerging trends, public records, and data sets to identify potential stories that align with the organization’s mission of crossing societal and institutional hurdles.
• Utilize digital tools and data visualization techniques to enhance storytelling and provide clarity to intricate investigative findings for our readership.
• Manage multiple investigative projects simultaneously, meeting production deadlines while maintaining a rigorous commitment to depth and quality.

• A minimum of five years of professional experience in journalism, with a proven track record of published investigative work in reputable national or international outlets.
• Exceptional writing skills, with a demonstrated ability to transform complex data, legal filings, and testimonials into clear, persuasive, and narrative-driven content.
• Deep understanding of journalistic ethics, media law, and the professional standards required for sensitive investigative reporting.
• Proficiency in digital research methodologies, including the ability to navigate public databases, manage FOIA requests, and use advanced search techniques.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to conduct sensitive interviews with a diverse range of subjects, from high-level officials to marginalized individuals.
• Self-motivated and disciplined, with the ability to work effectively and independently in a fully remote environment with minimal supervision.
• A degree in Journalism, Communications, Political Science, or a related field is preferred, though an exceptional portfolio of work will be given significant weight.
• The ability to handle a flexible workload ranging from 10 to 40 hours per week depending on the scope and urgency of active investigations.

• Complete remote flexibility, allowing you to work from any location while maintaining a healthy work-life balance that suits your personal needs.
• Competitive hourly contract rates with the potential for long-term engagement based on performance and the volume of available investigative projects.
• The opportunity to work on high-impact stories that have the genuine potential to influence public policy, corporate behavior, and social change.
• Access to a supportive editorial network and specialized professional development resources to sharpen your investigative toolkit and research capabilities.
• A flexible commitment ranging from part-time to full-time hours, providing the freedom to manage other professional or personal obligations seamlessly.
• Prominent recognition and bylines on a platform dedicated to meaningful, high-stakes journalism that makes a difference in the world.

Required Skills