Audience Writer

ProPublica·Remote·Work From Anywhere
Content & Writing

WFA Digital Insight

The demand for skilled writers who can adapt complex journalism into engaging formats has grown significantly, with a 25% increase in job postings over the past year. ProPublica's commitment to investigative journalism and its emphasis on creative storytelling make this role particularly interesting. As a candidate, you should be aware that ProPublica values collaboration, creativity, and a deep understanding of audience needs. With the rise of remote work, companies are looking for professionals who can work independently and deliver high-quality content. If you're passionate about storytelling and want to be part of a team that's making a difference, this role could be the perfect fit.

Job Description

About the Role

ProPublica, an independent nonprofit newsroom, is seeking an experienced Audience Writer to adapt investigative journalism into multiple formats. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in meeting the company's growing ambitions to reach and engage new audiences. As an Audience Writer, you will work closely with reporters and editors to produce high-quality content that brings dimension and life to ProPublica's journalism.

The role entails collaborating with various teams across the newsroom to create engaging content, including explainers, service guides, and Q&As with reporters. You will be responsible for delivering sharp, quick, and error-free copy that satisfies the needs of ProPublica's audience. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of audience best practices and be able to connect the dots between stories to contextualize the news for readers.

As part of the newsletter team, you will work closely with the audience manager and other staffers to produce short-form sections for newsletters and written-through standalone pieces. Your work will have a direct impact on ProPublica's ability to engage with its audience and tell stories that matter.

What You Will Do

  • Adapt investigative journalism into multiple formats, including explainers, service guides, and Q&As with reporters
  • Collaborate with reporters and editors to produce high-quality content that brings dimension and life to ProPublica's journalism
  • Work closely with the newsletter team to produce short-form sections for newsletters and written-through standalone pieces
  • Deliver sharp, quick, and error-free copy that satisfies the needs of ProPublica's audience
  • Connect the dots between stories to contextualize the news for readers
  • Develop and maintain a strong understanding of audience best practices
  • Participate in brainstorming sessions to come up with creative approaches to storytelling
  • Work independently to meet deadlines and deliver high-quality content
  • Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in digital journalism

What We Are Looking For

  • 3+ years of experience in writing and editing, preferably in a digital news environment
  • Strong understanding of audience best practices and how to connect with readers
  • Ability to work collaboratively with reporters and editors to produce high-quality content
  • Excellent writing and editing skills, with the ability to deliver sharp, quick, and error-free copy
  • Strong research skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
  • Experience with content management systems and digital publishing tools
  • Strong understanding of digital journalism trends and developments
  • Ability to adapt to changing news habits and trends

Nice to Have

  • Experience with multimedia storytelling, including video and audio production
  • Knowledge of SEO principles and how to optimize content for search engines
  • Familiarity with social media platforms and how to engage with audiences on social media
  • Experience with newsletter production and email marketing

Benefits and Perks

  • Opportunity to work with a renowned nonprofit newsroom and contribute to investigative journalism
  • Collaborative and dynamic work environment
  • Flexible remote work arrangements
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Access to the latest digital tools and technologies
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package
  • Recognition and rewards for outstanding performance
  • Opportunity to work on high-impact stories that make a difference

How to Stand Out

  • Develop a strong portfolio: Showcase your writing and editing skills by including samples of your work, particularly in digital formats.
  • Research ProPublica's work: Familiarize yourself with the company's investigative journalism and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with their mission.
  • Emphasize your ability to work independently: As a remote worker, you'll need to be self-motivated and able to manage your time effectively.
  • Highlight your understanding of audience best practices: Demonstrate your knowledge of how to connect with readers and adapt content to meet their needs.
  • Prepare to discuss your experience with digital tools and technologies: Be ready to talk about your experience with content management systems, digital publishing tools, and other relevant technologies.
  • Showcase your creativity and adaptability: ProPublica values creative approaches to storytelling, so be prepared to discuss your ideas and experiences with multimedia storytelling and other innovative formats.
  • Don't forget to include #ROjox and the word SATISFY in your application to show you've read the job post completely

This is a remote position listed on WFA Digital, the platform for professionals who work from anywhere. Browse more remote jobs across all categories.