Sources Journalist

Job Title: Sources Journalist
Department: Production
Reports To: Operations Manager

Job Summary:
We seek a highly motivated and detail-oriented Sources Journalist to support our investigative team in screening, evaluating, and managing the flow of tips and leads. This role is vital to ensuring the accuracy, credibility, and timeliness of our reporting. You will work closely with investigative journalists to identify and develop stories that resonate with our mission. This role will require hours on the phone with potential sources and be able to verify both the information and the story presented quickly.

Key Responsibilities:

• Screening Tips:

• Review and triage all incoming tips from the public, social media, whistle-blowers, and other sources.

• Assess tips for relevance, newsworthiness, and alignment with OMG’s mission.

• Tracking News:

• Monitor current events and emerging stories to identify investigative opportunities.

• Analyze trends and potential leads from social media, press releases, and news outlets.

• Vetting Sources:

• Conduct background checks and preliminary evaluations of whistle-blowers and tipsters.

• Verify the authenticity and credibility of submitted materials and claims.

• Coordination:

• Collaborate with investigative journalists to develop and refine story ideas.

• Schedule interviews, manage communications with sources, and organize supporting materials.

• Documentation:

• Maintain meticulous records of all incoming tips and their evaluation processes.

• Prepare and complete necessary documents with whistleblowers and tipsters, including NDA’s and Affidavits.

• Prepare summaries and reports for the investigative team.

• Support Investigative Efforts:

• Assist with fact-checking and research as needed.

• Coordinate with legal and editorial teams to ensure compliance and ethical standards.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, political science, or a related field preferred.

• Experience in journalism, investigative reporting, or a related field is ideal.

• Previous experience in screening or managing tips is a plus.

• Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills.

• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.

• High attention to detail and accuracy.

• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.

• Proficiency in using research tools, databases, and social media platforms.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience working with investigative journalism or media organizations.

• Experience with managing high-volume calls and communications.

Key Traits:

• Strong ethical standards and a commitment to OMG’s mission.

• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Passionate about investigative journalism and uncovering the truth.

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.