WTVD: I-Team Researcher (Part-time)

Department/Group Overview:

Disney Entertainment’s eight-owned ABC stations are multiplatform leaders in local news and information. The only local news station with three downtown newsrooms (Raleigh/Fayetteville/Durham), ABC11 Eyewitness News provides 45.5 hours of local news every week, serving more than 1 million households in a 23-county area in North Carolina and Virginia. Eyewitness News also provides news, weather and sports information 24 hours a day on ABC11.com, the ABC11 mobile news app and the new connected TV app.

The I-Team Researcher will provide critical investigative support to ABC11’s award-winning I-Team unit. This role enables the investigative team to handle complex, sensitive, and high stakes reporting with accuracy, speed, and compliance. By managing public records requests, organizing data, assisting with legal review, and tracking deadlines, the researcher ensures reporters and editors can focus on storytelling that informs and protects the public.

Job Summary:

If the employee has prior investigative experience, they will have some decision-making authority. The employee will assist with legal review supporting the lead while the stories are getting on air. They will work closely with the Assistant News Director and our ABC Attorney to make sure all content is reviewed and approved. This person will work with the lead to respond to attorney questions, work with the editor to ensure they have all the information needed to get the stories on the web. While reviewing and maintaining a log of all the stories we are investigating. At any given time, there will be twenty plus stories that we are working on at a high priority level in distinct phases of the process. Support the investigative team with interviews, scheduling, and story development. Monitor and follow up on leads and tips from viewers. Maintain detailed records of research, correspondence, and deadlines. This person may have direct communication with viewers to gather information and follow up on tips. This role will not have direct contact with businesses or government officials unless directed, due to legal considerations. This role must exercise extreme care in verbal and written communication to avoid legal exposure.

Responsibilities and Duties of the Role:

• Research and gather information for multiple investigative stories in progress.
• File and track public records requests with various government agencies.
• Compile, organize, and analyze data from public records and other sources.
• Assist with legal review preparation by coordinating with attorneys and providing necessary documentation.
• Ensure all communications and interactions adhere to legal and ethical standards.

Required Education, Experience/Skills/Training:

• 1+ years of experience in journalism, investigative research, or related field preferred.
• Strong writing, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• Familiarity with public records laws and investigative techniques a plus.
• Ability to work independently and manage sensitive information with discretion.

Basic Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent

Preferred Education:

• College Degree