Investigative Journalist (NES)

SYRIA DIRECT is a Syrian-led, independent media organization that started in 2013 after the outbreak of the Syrian conflict. We foster transparency and accountability through investigative reporting, amidst rising media repression in Syria and neighboring countries. Through reporting on conflict trends, human rights abuses, environmental issues, and more, we aim to contribute to a just future for Syria by informing Syrians and policymakers alike. Fiercely committed to the tenets of professional journalism, we produce timely, fact-based coverage of Syria and the Syrian diaspora in Arabic and English. We also provide training and consulting services to equip the next generation of Syrian journalists.

Position Overview:

The Investigative Journalist Consultant will be responsible for the delivery of a package of deliverables focused on housing, land and property (HLP) issues in northeastern Syria, including: one (1) podcast series (to be produced in English and Arabic), one (1) investigative report, and three (3) thematic reports. The candidate will be responsible for all expenses, including travel, lodging and other fieldwork costs incurred. (Only voiceovers, music, graphic design, translation, and other external costs will be covered by Syria Direct.) The Investigative Journalist will work in close collaboration with our Senior Editors.

PODCAST (1):

• Draft podcast script (in English or Arabic) on an HLP-related topic approved by the Editorial Team. (This includes interviews/testimonies, contextual information for the narration, and production and editing.)
• Incorporate edits from the Editorial Team for final draft.
• Produce the original and translated versions of the podcast series.
• Disseminate podcast series with networks in parallel to dissemination via Syria Direct’s platforms.

IN-DEPTH INVESTIGATION (1):

• Pitch and plan an HLP-related in-depth investigation with the Editorial Team.
• Conduct interviews, research and collect/analyze data or documents to draft the in-depth investigation.
• Incorporate edits from the Editorial Team for final draft.
• Disseminate in-depth investigation with personal networks in parallel to dissemination via Syria Direct’s platforms.

THEMATIC REPORTS (3):

• Pitch topics for short-format (1,000-1,500 word) reports on HLP-related topics to the Editorial Team.
• Report, research and collect data to draft thematic reports.
• Incorporate edits from the Editorial Team for final drafts.
• Disseminate thematic reports with personal networks in parallel to dissemination via Syria Direct’s platforms.

Qualifications:

• An undergraduate degree, preferably related to journalism, multimedia, area studies, human rights or other relevant field.
• At least three years of journalism experience.
• Professional proficiency in spoken and written English and Arabic, and comfort operating in a bilingual environment.
• Deep knowledge of local dynamics in Syria, specifically northeastern Syria.
• Solid understanding of journalism ethics and practices, a proven track record of solid reporting and a keen eye for news value.
• Demonstrated multimedia journalism skills (audio, video) required. Graphic design, photo and video editing skills are highly preferred.
• Strong writing and grammar skills.