JOB TITLE: Investigative Reporter
STATUS: Full-time / Exempt / Hybrid
COMPENSATION: $61,630
BENEFITS: Medical/vision/dental, PTO and sick time
REPORTS TO: Managing Editor
UNION REPRESENTATION: Yes
About Street Roots
Founded in 1999, Street Roots is a Portland-based nonprofit dedicated to creating income opportunities for individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty. As a member of the International Network of Street Papers, Street Roots is one of 30 similar publications in the U.S. and part of a global network of 90 papers. We produce an award-winning weekly newspaper featuring in-depth reporting on social, political, economic and environmental justice issues, with content contributed by professional journalists, community members, and advocacy organizations. 100 vendors each week and 400 vendors throughout a year (Independent Contractors) experiencing homelessness and poverty purchase newspapers at a nominal cost and sell them on the streets of Portland, keeping the profits as a source of income and financial stability. Over the years, the organization has expanded its impact beyond the newspaper, launching programs such as the Rose City Resource Guide, the Ambassador Program and recently, the Vendor Facilities program offering laundry and showers. Street Roots also plays a pivotal role in advocacy efforts, influencing policies such as the Portland Street Response plan. Committed to remaining a vital force in the community, Street Roots continues to strive for meaningful social change and economic empowerment.
Position Summary
The investigative reporter will join a five-person staff, including an editor in chief, managing editor, editorial art director and editorial producer, to produce a groundbreaking, award-winning weekly investigative newspaper. While all editorial staff members and a stable of freelancers produce stories and other editorial content, the investigative reporter serves in the only editorial staff role solely focused on reporting. The investigative reporter is responsible for producing high-impact investigative and accountability articles and series, as well as news and personality features.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Take photographs and obtain courtesy visuals to accompany stories.
Work with editing and design staff to produce illustrations and data visualizations.
Conduct interviews, research and public records requests for stories.
This position also includes copy editing once per week.
Attend and participate in planning meetings and 1-on-1 meetings, both as part of a weekly schedule and as-needed for special projects.
Contribute articles for special projects like election coverage.
Be interviewed for other media like radio, podcast and television to promote stories.
When primary responsibilities permit, occasional collaboration with other newspaper staff on stories.
Attend staff and team meetings
Other duties as assigned
All staff are asked to participate in the following Organizational Responsibilities:
Participate and take turns in needed support roles for staff meetings, all staff retreats, board communication, and community building. This may include facilitation, research, writing, reporting, and supporting the building and maintenance of an inclusive workplace environment and culture.
Support the recruitment, interviewing, and onboarding of new SR employees.
Provide feedback for other SR employees through the annual performance evaluation process.
Help advance the mission of the organization by promoting and advocating for our work when appropriate.
How to apply:
Send an email with your cover letter, resume and five published clips (linked or full) as PDFs to editor@streetroots.org by Jan. 4, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. with ‘Street Roots investigative reporter application’ in the subject line. In your cover letter, please tell us why and how Street Roots and its readers would benefit from your approach and experience. Please also tell us why you want to bring your talents to Street Roots.
Research shows that women, trans, non-binary, BIPOC, and other historically marginalized people may hesitate to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. We recognize that lived experience and nontraditional pathways can bring valuable skills. If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn’t perfectly align with every requirement, we encourage you to apply. We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and welcome candidates from all backgrounds.
Incomplete applications will not be considered. References will be requested of our final candidates.
Preferred qualifications and skills:
At least two years experience reporting for a daily or weekly newspaper
Experience reporting on homelessness, housing, the environment, poverty, local politics or criminal justice
Firm grasp of AP Style
Ability to take print-ready photographs
Ability to turn in clean copy
Ability to balance short and long term projects
Investigative skills including public records knowledge and experience making requests
Familiarity with Portland and Multnomah County agencies, politics and issues
Familiarity with Oregon agencies, politics and issues
Ability to generate story ideas and meet deadlines
Time management skills
Works well independently and also collaboratively