Updated Aug. 14, 2023
Snopes, the oldest fact-checking website in the world, is looking for two early-career news reporters to join our fully remote, digital newsroom.
Rather than writing fact checks and applying ratings to stories, these writers will concentrate on writing quick-hit traditional news stories, including posts that aggregate the content of other reputable journalists around hot topics. The positions include opportunities for advancement into fact checking and/or more senior-writing roles. Every day, Snopes covers what our readers are inquiring about the most. Snopes reporters must be confident switch-hitters, tackling daily assignments in a variety of subjects, from political rumors to creature features, to in-the-weeds legal explainers, to … the utterly bizarre.
Snopes reporters are comfortable interviewing and digging into online documents, data, and public records; they're self-guided in identifying and verifying sources; and they're willing to help a team member who's hit a roadblock.
Above all, Snopes reporters are insanely ethical, non-partisan, insatiably curious, and not easily duped. We treasure our readers' trust, and do all we can to carry forth Snopes' mission of presenting the facts with the utmost clarity and objectivity.
Our little company puts a primacy on internal collaboration, respect, and esprit de corps — no grumps need apply.
The position pays $60,000 annually and includes health benefits,* a monthly internet stipend of $125, and more than 3 ½ weeks off of accrued paid vacation a year. Successful hires will be evaluated for their performance at the 3-month and 6-month mark to ensure they're a good fit for Snopes.
* You'll have access to health plans starting on the first of the month, after attaining eligibility (30 days from your hire date)
Reporter Responsibilities
- Research and write short, daily news stories in compliance with Snopes style and journalistic best practices.
- Identify compelling visual elements for posts and follow newsroom production guidelines.
- Monitor multiple media sources for story ideas that serve our readers.
- Provide additional research and reporting as needed.
- Complete story corrections and story updates as needed.
- Participate in staff training and group discussions as needed.
Reporter Requirements
- Minimum 1-3 years professional experience at an established news organization, preferably digital.
- Ability to meet tight deadlines.
- Mastery of basic Associated Press style.
- Mastery of basic English grammar.
- Excellent written communication skills and comfort with collaborating almost exclusively via Slack and other digital tools.
- Excellent time-management skills.
- Mastery of basic CMS (WordPress experience is a plus) and social media posting, including on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
- Demonstrated adherence to impartiality and fairness in all journalistic endeavors.
To apply, please provide a one-page resume with at least 3 references listed and links to 3 clips, and a short cover letter (maximum 250 words) explaining why you think you're the top person for this job. Send resume/cover letter to operations@snopes.com and include "News reporter openings" in the subject line.
Snopes will not consider applications missing any of these requirements. Finalists will be asked to complete a writing test. This job is non-management and full-time (40 hours weekly).