Austin American-Statesman seeks a litigation and bankruptcy reporter

The Austin American-Statesman is seeking an experienced reporter to mine local, state and federal courts for stories about litigation affecting area business and the economy in one of the nation’s most vibrant cities.

What will you do?

As a member of the regional Business team, this reporter will cover lawsuits involving major local companies, business and government leaders and individuals. One day, they may be writing about a financial scam perpetrated against investors or a feud among siblings fighting for control of a family owned business. The next day, the news could be a major company filing bankruptcy, a patent infringement claim against a tech company or a lawsuit against a manufacturer over an on-the-job injury.

What will it take to be successful?

The successful applicant will be an excellent reporter and writer with a track record of finding and telling compelling and rigorously reported stories on complicated subjects. In addition to experience covering courts, they must have a deep knowledge of public and private industry, government, regulatory issues and economics.

Other requirements: 

• At least five years of experience covering courts or business. Candidates with a track record in both specialties will get top priority.
• A digital-first mindset, understanding of SEO and how to optimize coverage for different audiences and formats, including social media.
• Collaboration with teams responsible for visuals, data, and audience to create compelling multimedia journalism that reaches the broadest audience possible in multiple formats.
• Embrace of a fast-paced, collaborative environment and ability to communicate well with colleagues across departments and Hearst newsrooms.

This position reports to the Regional Business Editor as part of the Hearst Texas Business news staff in Austin and San Antonio.

The department also covers technology, energy, utilities, auto manufacturing, labor, trade, aerospace, cybersecurity, real estate, insurance, retail, tourism, economic development and the region’s major companies and industries. Among the companies of focus are Tesla, Dell, Cisco, Oracle, Valero, USAA, SpaceX, Boeing, Samsung, H-E-B and Whataburger.

To apply, go here.