Become Principal Data Journalist

Become Principal Data Journalist — The European Correspondent

APPLICATION CLOSED

The European Correspondent is looking for a…

Principal data journalist (16 days/month)

The European Correspondent is a non-profit European media organisation. We bring Europe’s most relevant stories to around 80,000 citizens from all over the continent to build a European public discourse.

About the role

The principal data journalist works closely with the lead data editor on The European Correspondent's (TEC) daily graphics production, turning complex datasets into stories that matter. Helping readers make sense of Europe through data visualisations, maps, and illustrations.

What you'll be doing

• Coordinate data journalists and journalists across the newsroom.
• Pitch and create original data stories: maps, charts, and visual investigations.
• Review data stories before publication, with a sharp eye for visual clarity, accuracy, and consistency with TEC's editorial standards.
• Co-produce a weekly data newsletter and develop TEC graphics’ social media presence through templates and short-form explainer video formats.
• Stay at the forefront of emerging tools, formats, and trends in data journalism and visual storytelling, and bring new ideas into the team's workflow.
• Collaborate with editors covering various fields and with partner newsrooms to produce graphics and data-driven stories that strengthens TEC's reporting.
• Contribute actively to the development of new and existing data journalism products at TEC.

What we’re looking for

• Strong experience in data journalism, with a portfolio of impactful published work.
• Solid proficiency in data analysis tools (Python, R, SQL, or spreadsheets) and visualisation tools (Flourish, Datawrapper, D3.js, or equivalent).
• Proficient in standard design apps including Figma, knowledge of After Effects and 3D software is a plus.
• Strong eye for design, ensuring graphics are as visually compelling as they are analytically rigorous.
• Knowledge of major European institutions, datasets, and policy frameworks.
• Collaborative mindset and strong attention to detail.
• You're a registered freelancer in a European Union country.
• Previous newsroom experience is a plus.
• Excellent English skills; other European languages are a plus.

What we offer

• Payment range: €1,920-€2,500
• If you're in Brussels, join us in our office, or work fully remotely from elsewhere.
• A say in shaping an independent media start-up from the ground up.
• Significant potential to grow with the organisation as we expand.
• Access to a growing European network of journalists
• A mission-driven team that values openness and experimentation.

Does this sound interesting to you? Apply here, we would love to hear from you. We review applications on a rolling basis, usually within two weeks from publication (12.05.26).

Diversity makes us stronger. We appreciate diverse attitudes, cultures, and identities and encourage everyone to apply. Looking at problems from different perspectives helps us to get better every day.