The Walrus provokes new thinking and sparks conversation on matters vital to Canadians. As a registered charity, we publish independent fact-based journalism and produce national ideas-focused events. The Walrus and its strong community of supporters are invested in the idea that a healthy society relies on informed citizens.
POSITIONS WE ARE CURRENTLY HIRING FOR:
- Fact Checker (November 11 deadline)
Fact Checker
The Walrus is seeking a full-time fact checker to join our editorial team. This is a staff position and is suited for a trained editorial fact checker with experience working in a fast-paced environment on a variety of long-form journalism.
The fact checker will primarily be responsible for fact-checking contributing writer features, along with other stories—investigative features, first-person essays, stories of a sensitive nature—as needed. Applicants are expected to demonstrate a thorough understanding of editorial fact-checking methods.
The fact checker will also help train and mentor editorial fellows alongside the head of research. They will have the opportunity to attend story meetings and contribute to editorial planning sessions.
The fact checker will report to the head of research, and work with members of the editorial team. The fact checker should have a working knowledge of The Walrus ethics and verification standards. They should also be familiar with the organization’s educational mandate, and support the inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility goals of The Walrus.
Responsibilities
- Fact-check contributing writer stories, as well as other editorial content
- Assist with the training and mentorship of editorial fellows
- Assist with reviewing the fact-checking work of fellows and freelancers
- Help maintain and expand The Walrus ethics and verification standards
- Assist the head of research with additional tasks as needed
Qualifications and Experience
- Fluent in English (additional language fluency is an asset)
- A minimum of three years of editorial fact-checking experience is required, preferably with long-form journalism and/or at a magazine (online and/or print). Experience in post-publication fact checking and other types of editorial or academic research will not be counted toward the requisite fact-checking experience.
- Working knowledge of the fact-checking methodology, principles, and verification standards articulated in The Truth in Journalism Fact-Checking Guide
- Knowledgeable in the use of various research tools, such as LexisNexis
- A critical eye and attention to detail are a must
- A strong work ethic, as well as the ability to work independently and participate collaboratively in a team environment
- Familiarity with Trello, Salesforce, and Adobe Suite applications (namely Acrobat and InDesign) are an asset
- Interest in current affairs and the news cycle
Compensation and benefits
The compensation package includes a competitive base salary of $52,000-$55,000, with a full benefits package consisting of medical, dental, vision, prescription, mental health coverage, employee and family assistance program, and paid vacation. We also have half-day summer Fridays and a week off over the winter holiday break.
The Walrus supports flexible, hybrid work, including a collaborative, open office environment in downtown east Toronto. A laptop will be provided, along with a free subscription to the print or digital edition of The Walrus, and a deeply discounted rate for family and friends.
Compensation and benefits
Please send a cover letter and resumé to careers@thewalrus.ca with the following subject line: “Fact Checker: [your name].” The deadline for applications is 11:59 p.m. ET on Monday, November 11. Interviews will take place over Zoom in late November. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. The start date for this position is Monday, January 6, 2025.
The Walrus is committed to diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in the workplace. We value employment equity and strongly encourage applications from Indigenous, Black, and racialized people; people with disabilities; people of all genders; and the LGBTQ2+ community. If you require any accommodation in the recruitment process, please let us know by email at careers@thewalrus.ca.
This job is based in Toronto or remote (anywhere in Canada), and the successful candidate will be required to work hours in Eastern Time (ET). Applicants must be eligible to work in Canada to qualify.
Thank you for your interest.