Join South Africa’s leading investigative journalism team 

Investigative journalist: mid to senior level

AmaBhungane has a position available on its small but driven team of investigative journalists.

We are an independent non-profit newsroom – that means we’re outsiders to systems of power and not beholden to any corporate interests. We are in a position to take the time to chase down the complex stories that otherwise might not be told.

We produce long-form investigative journalism in the public interest and our publication cycle prioritises depth, quality and accuracy – that means you will be given time to investigate.

We’re also an advocacy organisation, meaning we promote accountability and transparency through strategic litigation that challenges secrecy by the state and the private sector.

In short, we work to hold the line for fair and transparent democracy.  

Any applicant must: have at a strict minimum of five years’ reporting experience and a track record of agenda-setting investigative breaks; have a solid grasp of the ethical and legal requirements of the field; write competently; have a passion for truth, justice and serving the public interest; have the ability to find and develop a variety of sources; and be a self-motivator who can work independently and in a team.

The ideal candidate is someone with a proven ability to identify, investigate and expose wrongdoing in society, in the private and public sectors; with a track record of meticulous, forensic investigations, who shows deep knowledge of crime, politics and society, and can handle complexity and detail, but be able to cut through the noise and tell complicated stories in a way that connects with audiences. 

The candidate must be willing to work in a challenging environment that requires staying-power, courage, commitment, mucking-in and teamwork. The position could be based in Cape Town or, preferably, Johannesburg, Our team largely works remotely but we require team members to come into the office at least twice a week.

Attributes that will be a plus: understand financial statements and concepts; open source investigative skills; the ability to work with and manage large amounts of data; the ability to edit other journalists’ work; a solid grasp of the digital environment and social media that may include digital story-telling skills; and the ability to work in languages other than English.

Conflicts: AmaB encourages a healthy work/life balance and has a strict policy about outside work. Shortlisted candidates will be required to disclose any conflicts of interest and, if hired, must get permission for any outside work or engagements. 

As a member of the investigative team, you will report to the editorial coordinators and the managing partner. AmaBhungane is committed to hiring candidates in line with our transformation strategy.

Please email your CV and a short letter of motivation to admin@amabhungane.org by Friday 28 November 2025. The CV and letter should speak to the above criteria. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.