The Center Square is looking for a freelance journalist for coverage of Seattle and the surrounding areas.
We're looking for individuals who have government reporting experience, and a strong interest and understanding of public policy and how policy decisions affect taxpayers.
The Center Square covers government from a taxpayers’ perspective, not from government’s perspective. We hold government officials accountable for their actions and decisions, and inform our readers how those decisions affect them.
Role Description: The Freelance Reporter is a contract role based on-site in the Seattle metropolitan area. This role is responsible for identifying and pitching story ideas focused on state and local government, public policy, and taxpayer-impact issues, then reporting, writing, and filing timely stories on deadline. Day-to-day work includes attending public meetings, hearings, and events; cultivating sources; conducting interviews in person, by phone, and online; and verifying facts and data to ensure accuracy and fairness. The Freelance Reporter will collaborate with editors to refine story angles, respond to revisions, and adhere to style, ethics, and legal standards. The role may also involve producing multimedia elements, such as photos or short video clips, and engaging with audiences across digital platforms when appropriate.
Qualifications: Strong reporting skills, including source development, interviewing, fact-checking, and coverage of government or public policy issues.
Excellent news writing and general writing abilities, with a clear, concise style and the capacity to translate complex topics for a general audience.
Effective communication skills, including the ability to work collaboratively with editors and stakeholders and to represent the organization professionally in the field.
Proven ability to meet tight deadlines, manage multiple assignments, and maintain high standards of accuracy and balance.
Knowledge of the Seattle metropolitan area and interest in local government and taxpayer-focused issues.
Previous experience in journalism, particularly in local or state reporting, preferred; a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field is beneficial but not required.
Commitment to ethical, nonpartisan, and objective reporting aligned with The Center Square’s mission and editorial standards.
Send a resume and writing samples to Washington Editor Andrew Paxton via email at apaxton@thecentersquare.com.
