Research Producer

Job Description

NewsNation Research Producer (Chicago, NY or Washington)
NewsNation is seeking a highly skilled Research Producer to support the program Reality Check with Ross Coulthart. This role is central to the editorial process and will focus on deep research, source development, fact-checking, archival work, and story preparation across long-form interviews, documentaries, podcasts, and digital video content. The ideal candidate is intellectually curious, detail-obsessed, comfortable handling sensitive material, and able to work across complex, controversial, or emerging subject matter with rigor and discretion. The position is on-site at a NewsNation offices in Chicago, New York, or Washington.

Duties & Responsibilities:
Research & Story Development
• Conduct in-depth research for investigative stories, interviews, and long-form projects
• Identify, evaluate, and synthesize primary and secondary sources (documents, academic papers, government records, FOIA materials, media archives, etc.)
• Prepare detailed research briefs, timelines, backgrounders, and talking points for interviews
• Track ongoing story threads and emerging developments relevant to assigned beats
Fact-Checking & Editorial Support
• Verify claims, dates, quotes, and source credibility prior to publication or recording
• Assist with legal-minded fact hygiene (attribution, sourcing clarity, risk awareness)
• Maintain organized research archives for internal reference
Source & Archive Management
• Help identify potential interview subjects, experts, and whistleblowers
• Conduct preliminary background checks and source vetting
• Manage research databases, document libraries, and historical archives
Production Collaboration
• Work closely with producers, editors, and host to support episode planning and story arcs
• Assist with prep for on-camera interviews and recorded discussions
• Support rapid-turn research needs for breaking or fast-moving stories

Requirements & Skills:
• Three+ years experience in research, journalism, documentary production, or editorial roles
• Strong investigative research skills and excellent editorial judgment
• Exceptional attention to detail and ability to work independently
• Clear written communication and ability to summarize complex material concisely
• Comfort working with sensitive, confidential, or controversial subject matter
• Familiarity with journalistic standards and fact-checking best practices
Additional Preferred Qualifications
• Background in investigative reporting, long-form journalism, or documentary research
• Experience researching government, defense, intelligence, or science-related topics
• Familiarity with FOIA processes and public records research
• Interest or experience in topics related to national security, unexplained phenomena, or media accountability
• Experience working in fast-paced digital or independent media environments
Salary Range: $60,000 - $70,000
Benefits: Our comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees includes, but not limited to, medical (with multiple plan options), dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) with company matching contributions, Paid Parental leave, life insurance and more. Part time employees are eligible for 401(k) and any local/state leave plans. Union positions are subject to the benefits outlined in their Collective Bargaining Agreement.
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Jobcode: Reference SBJ-74nn2q-216-73-216-211-42 in your application.