Income and Affordability Reporter

The Los Angeles Times is seeking a versatile, high-impact journalist to cover the widening extremes of poverty and wealth in California, with the goal of increasing public understanding of the fundamental forces contributing to these disparities. In this one-year position, you will produce journalism that blends deep research with compelling, real-life storytelling to bring complex subjects into sharp relief, as well as highlight structural fixes and community-led solutions.   This position is funded by the James Irvine Foundation, but under full editorial control of The Times newsroom. Coverage will be free to all readers.The reporter will be responsible for exploring critical pillars of the economic divide, including: Illuminating the day-to-day realities of the affordability gap and the lives of workers who, despite full-time employment, struggle with the costs of housing, childcare and healthcare Documenting the ways in which systemic racism, unemployment, underemployment and rollbacks in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs have compounded the jobs crisis for Black Californians, and how best to remove the barriers to stable employment Covering how the next era of California leadership might redesign the state’s social contract, workforce pipelines and safety nets in an attempt to increase economic mobility Investigating how robotics, artificial intelligence, auto-scheduling, productivity scoring and other technologies are transforming the workplace, as well as profiling efforts by workers to help shape the adoption of these innovations Exploring the ways in which steady hours, living wages and “holistic support” create pathways to career advancement rather than just means to survival Responsibilities: Identify and execute ambitious stories that explore the challenges facing low-income communities and the efforts being made to bridge the economic divide Work with Times journalists in the field to produce a mix of breaking news, profiles and long-form explanatory pieces Participate in virtual public events and discussions based on your coverage to engage the community in exploring solutions Travel across California to document the diverse experiences of workers and families impacted by systemic poverty Uphold the highest standards of fact-based, independent journalism Qualifications A minimum of six years of journalism experience Proven track record of reporting on socioeconomic issues, labor, housing or systemic inequity A portfolio demonstrating the ability to humanize complex data and policy through powerful narrative storytelling Strong research skills and the ability to navigate public records and economic data A commitment to community engagement and representing the voices of marginalized populations Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative newsroom team Understanding of the importance of accuracy and precision An ethical and inclusive approach in the workplace that promotes collaboration Comfortable appearing on TV, radio and podcasts on behalf of the L.A. Times Multimedia reporting experience is a plus This role is listed as Reporter in the Los Angeles Times Guild and will be based in El Segundo, Calif. Occasional travel is expected, as is night and weekend work. Bilingual or multilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. Reporters must have a valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle in good working condition, with suitable auto insurance coverage.    Qualified candidates should send a resume, cover letter and applicable clips to Deputy Editor Joe Mozingo.