We're Hiring! Broadband Writer and Researcher

The Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR) is a national nonprofit working to empower communities by striking at the roots of monopoly power. We use in-depth research, reporting, and data analysis to work with communities as well as produce influential reports and articles. Our analyses are frequently featured in national news media and sought out by policymakers. We work closely with a broad range of allies to move these ideas and policies.

ILSR is looking for a Broadband Writer/Researcher within the U.S. to join a growing team within ILSR focused on ensuring all Americans have fast, affordable, and reliable Internet access. This person will work with Sean Gonsalves and Ry Marcattilio-McCracken to develop research as well as create short- and long-form content focused on improving Internet access both in urban and rural areas. This might seem like a dry and technical issue, but it is a vibrant and exciting field that is also one of this generation’s biggest equity and justice challenges.

Check out the job duties and skills needed below.

Job responsibilities include:

• Writing stories for MuniNetworks.org, a clearinghouse of the latest news, comprehensive reports, and statistics about community broadband networks.
• Writing and collaborating with the team on larger reports.
• Managing research ongoing on the cities and cooperative that are building networks.
• Monitoring an overwhelming number of Google alerts and other streams of information to keep track of local developments around community networks.
• Working with the team to develop and review research projects and creative efforts to share our work.

A successful candidate is:

• An exceptionally good writer with the ability to convey complex ideas in a clear and compelling way. Able to write quickly when needed.
• Able to design, undertake, and complete original research with little direction on familiar topics.
• Has experience with research and writing projects that make use of sources like news coverage, legislation, agency reports, municipal documents, etc.
• Possesses a genuine enjoyment of collaboration with a willingness to give and receive honest feedback. Skilled at helping team members improve the articles they contribute.
• Passionate about the ILSR’s mission of countering corporate monopolies and building community power.
• Possesses close reading and critical thinking skills, with an attention to detail bordering on the pathological.
• Enthusiastic about puns, alliteration, or some other means of playing with words.

Preferred qualifications:

• More than 1 year of experience in journalism or writing and editing – ideally on broadband policy, tech, or related fields.
• Strong knowledge of public policy processes or a tech/telecom background.

This position is full-time working with a team mostly based in Minnesota, but we currently work remotely and welcome applications from anywhere within the U.S. Position includes 100% employer-paid health plan, generous vacation and holiday leave, and retirement contribution matching. Salary is commensurate with experience, in the $40,000-$46,000 range based on experience and local cost of living. We are a dynamic and friendly team dedicated to making the world a better place.

Applications are encouraged from a broad range of applicants. ILSR is committed to providing employees with a welcoming work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions are made without regard to age, race, color, religion or belief, gender identification, family or parental status. ILSR is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability.

How to Apply: 

Please send a cover letter addressed to Christopher Mitchell, résumé, and two writing samples reflecting your original work to hiring@ilsr.org. The cover letter should be no longer than 400 words and the writing samples no longer than 1,000 words each (excerpts of longer pieces are welcome). The subject line of the email should say “Broadband Researcher.” Applications will be accepted at least through Jan 15 and on a rolling basis after that date until the position is filled. Check ILSR’s website for updated information.