NewsNation Research Producer (Chicago, NY or Washington)

Nexstar BroadcastingChicago, ILPosted

Job Description

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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