Committee to Protect Journalists

About CPJFounded in 1981, the Committee to Protect Journalists is an independent, non-profit organization defending journalists worldwide without regard to their political ideology. Through its work to safeguard journalists, CPJ protects the rights of all people to have access to diverse and independent sources of information.Background

The Committee to Protect Journalists seeks a full-time researcher for its Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) program to work in its New York office. The LAC Program Researcher works under the supervision of the LAC Program Coordinator to closely monitor, research, document and respond to attacks on the press and issues affecting press freedom in the Americas.

 

Candidates should have knowledge of media, press freedom and human rights issues in Latin America and the Caribbean; strong research and writing skills; and the ability to work independently and proactively as well as in collaboration with other team members across the region. Fluency and strong oral and written communication skills in English and Spanish are required, knowledge of at least one other regional language is a plus. Prior reporting experience as a journalist or researcher is preferable, as is familiarity with using major social media platforms for work.

 

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct daily research and interviews in English and Spanish, report and write news alerts in English.
• Monitor, document and respond to breaking news and events impacting press freedom in the LAC region.
• Communicate regularly with journalists, human rights activists and partner organizations across the region.
• Work collaboratively with LAC program correspondents based in the region.
• Research and write features, special reports and other editorial products as relevant.
• Assist with planning and implementing regional advocacy efforts.
• Maintain the LAC program’s social media accounts and network of contacts.
• Work with CPJ’s Emergencies team and Journalist Assistance program to vet cases and provide assistance to journalists in need.

 

Additional Responsibilities

• Translate content between English and Spanish as needed, and vet translations.
• Ensure cases in CPJ’s database and end-of-year reports are updated in a timely manner, as needed.
• Pitch, write and report features, op-eds or other editorial products for publication on CPJ’s website or for external publication.
• Assist program coordinator with miscellaneous administrative tasks, such as impact reports and program plans. 

 

Qualifications

• Knowledge of press freedom, human rights and media issues in Latin America and the Caribbean.
• Fluency in Spanish and English (speaking, reading and writing) is required. Other language skills, particularly Portuguese or Haitian Creole, are a plus.
• Regional experience -- especially experience reporting and/or working on advocacy campaigns -- is an asset.
• Proven skills in reporting and writing accurate and concise copy.
• Fluency in social media is strongly preferred.

 

About the position

This position is part of a collective bargaining unit represented by the Writers Guild of America, East.

 

To apply

Please submit a resume, cover letter, three references, and a 500-word personal statement on why you consider press freedom to be important.

 

CPJ is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.