New

WPSU-Part-Time Election Researcher/Reporter

The Pennsylvania State University
remote work
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
Aug 11, 2026
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants. Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants. JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS WPSU is accepting applications for a part-time researcher/reporter to help WPSU search out and debunk disinformation and misinformation in our coverage area. The researcher/reporter will receive training to work on a grant funded project with the Center for Media Engagement. They will monitor election messaging and create news stories to share correct information with communities throughout central and northern Pennsylvania, with possible distribution statewide through our reporting partners. Key Responsibilities: Monitoring election-related messages, including social media, comment sections, content from potentially problematic websites, and questions from community members. Logging and reviewing instances of possibly incorrect information in a database provided by the Center for Media Engagement. Working with the WPSU newsroom and community leaders to share correct election information. Receiving training from and coordinating with the Center for Media Engagement. Writing articles and radio stories (or providing supporting information to reporters) with information about elections that responds to the questionable content identified as part of the project. Qualifications: Two years reporting experience, with a preference for experience in political reporting. Strong researching, writing, editing, interviewing and on-air delivery. A commitment to ethical, accurate journalism. Familiarity with central and northern Pennsylvania is a bonus. Timeframe: The project starts Sept. 1 and continues until at least Nov. 20. Up to 20 hours/week. We'll work with the chosen candidate to establish a schedule that works for both of us. To apply, please submit a cover letter, resume and 2-3 work samples (radio/TV samples preferred). BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks. CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here. EEO IS THE LAW** Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines