Fact Checker, Shows
The New York Times Shows department is hiring a staff editor to fact check episodes of Hard Fork, both in video and audio formats.
You will work with producers and editors to check facts and assertions, with extra attention to the tone and context in which they're delivered.
You are comfortable working in print, audio and video mediums in a fast-paced news environment. We're looking for exceptional news judgment, an investigator's mind and the ability to dive into unfamiliar material on deadline. And while we value deliberate, careful checking, speed is also important. The fact checker will be part of a small group of producers and editors, so collegiality, diplomacy and a collaborative spirit are a must.
This is a part-time role for 20 hours a week to start. It could scale up over time. You will report to the Executive Producer of Hard Fork.
This is an in-office position, based in New York City and includes regular attendance in the office each week. There may be some flexibility to work remotely per your departmental guidance.
Responsibilities:
Check factual assertions in podcast and video episodes to determine veracity and correctness on deadline
Check prep documents and listen during live recordings to track facts and assertions to be verified
Listen to drafts, checking all facts, noting attribution, and providing guidance on editing or adjusting material as needed
Conduct quick and accurate research to gather and verify facts in collaboration with producers, editors and hosts
Work to ensure fairness and accuracy; correct contradictions and omissions in consultation with producers, editors and hosts; correct spelling and grammar
Check episode descriptions and other copy for video and audio assets. Adjust show print excerpts, transcripts and captions for factual accuracy
Check video episode's visuals for factual accuracy and context
Exercise news judgment
Demonstrate support and understanding of our value of journalistic independence and a strong commitment to our mission to seek the truth and help people understand the world
Basic Qualifications:
3 or more years of fact-checking experience
Available to work evenings as needed
Preferred Qualifications:
Exercise news judgment
Quickly identify facts to be checked in a podcast episode transcript
Communicate notes & feedback clearly
Superb research skills
Use data to inform decisions
Manage deadlines simultaneously
Well-developed and adaptive cultural competence and emotional intelligence
Experience in a deadline-driven environment
Experience fact checking audio or video products
Experience working with talent
Uphold the existing editorial standards of The Times
#LI-Hybrid
This position is represented by the NewsGuild of NY.
REQ- 020765
Additional Compensation and Benefits:
For roles in the U.S., dependent on your role, you may be eligible for variable pay, such as an annual bonus and restricted stock. Benefits may include medical, dental and vision benefits, Flexible Spending Accounts (F.S.A.s), a company-matching 401(k) plan, employee stock purchase plan, paid vacation, paid sick days, paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement and professional development programs.
For roles outside of the U.S., information on benefits will be provided during the interview process.
The hourly rate of base pay for this role is:
$62.61—$63.19 USD