Fact Checker, The New Yorker

The New Yorker is a multi-platform media enterprise, spanning print, digital, audio, video, and live events. Founded in 1925, it is renowned for its in-depth reporting, political and cultural commentary, fiction, poetry, humor, and cartoons. The weekly print magazine and daily digital destination stand apart for their commitment to truth, accuracy, and high-quality prose.

About the role

The fact-checking department ensures the accuracy of The New Yorker’s editorial content, covering local, national, and international affairs, culture, literature, science, fiction, humor, poetry, cartoons, covers, art spreads, audio segments, videos, games, and letters to the editor. The department is known for its high standards, requiring not only verification of facts but also excellent editorial judgment. Checkers analyze arguments, identify logical flaws or omissions, and assess fairness, balance, and press coverage. Work ranges from one-line captions to 10,000–15,000-word fact-heavy pieces, often involving complex legal, ethical, or international sourcing.

Responsibilities

• Stay abreast of developments in national and international politics, science, and culture.
• Analyze editorial content for accuracy, logical consistency, and editorial integrity.
• Critically evaluate writers’ sources, determine if additional documents or sources are needed, and conduct research to identify them.
• Review writers’ documents, interview sources, and distill relevant information.
• Examine supporting content, such as social copy, illustrations, and photographs.
• Collaborate effectively with writers, copy editors, and editors across the publication.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Strong understanding of ethical reporting standards and practices.
• Generalist’s interest in world and national affairs combined with a scholar’s precision.
• Broad interest in cultural subjects.
• Diplomatic skills to navigate complex situations with diverse stakeholders.
• Willingness to work early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays.

Qualifications

• Experience in reporting and research is highly valued.
• International experience and language skills are preferred but not required.

Pay

The expected base salary range for this position is $75,500 – $79,500, with offers determined by factors including skills, training, experience, and education.