Data Graphics Developer

Data Graphics Developer

The Houston Chronicle is looking for an ambitious senior-level graphics developer with strong visualization skills to join our growing data team. This role will work alongside the data editor to craft the newsroom’s approach to using and visualizing data. 

The developer will be a player-coach capable of providing guidance to both data team members and journalists across the newsroom. They will also lead the Chronicle’s approach to cutting-edge visual storytelling.

The successful candidate will be self-directed and capable of working on multiple projects with different deadlines. They will work quickly but responsibly on visual-heavy data stories that help readers understand complex topics through unique reporting, data analysis and interactive graphics creation.

We’re seeking a self-starter with high standards who can collaborate well, has excellent communication skills, and is comfortable providing and taking feedback. We want a teammate who aspires to be a key player in an exciting, modern news operation that values a smart, local readership and aims to take risks in how we report and present journalism online. 

What the developer will do:

• Write code to find, analyze and visualize large datasets.
• Use HTML, CSS and JavaScript (d3.js) to craft data-driven stories and develop news apps for HoustonChronicle.com.
• Collaborate with newsroom reporters to produce unique, high-impact journalism.
• Work with the data team to develop newsroom trainings to further data literacy across the newsroom.

• Take ownership of finding new, innovative ways to visualize data and tell stories.

What it will take to be successful: 

• Experience in a modern newsroom or a related work environment.
• Ability to work with multiple, large datasets using Python, R or similar coding languages.
• Web development and data visualization experience, preferably using React, Svelte or similar component-based frameworks.
• Plus: Mapping and GIS skills, preferably using QGIS and MapLibre.
• Knowledge of current multimedia storytelling techniques and a desire to explore new, non-traditional story formats, specifically as it pertains to visualizing data and how systems work
• Strong news judgment, creativity and meticulousness.
• A dedication to organization and documentation.
• Ability to manage multiple projects at once.
• Ability to meet deadlines on short, medium and some longer-turn projects.
• Attention to detail in analysis and visual presentations, specifically as it pertains to current best practices.

• A strong desire to collaborate with all newsroom teams to produce the best journalism possible.

Requirements: 

• This position is full-time. 
• It will likely include some weekend and holiday work.
• The candidates must be based in Houston or willing to move to the area.

About the Houston Chronicle:

The Houston Chronicle, recognized for its Pulitzer Prize-winning journalism, serves its 2.3 million residents with content and marketing solutions across two of Houston’s largest websites — HoustonChronicle.com and Chron.com, along with our magazine, television and newspaper brands.  Our mission is to spark conversations that inspire action to create a better Houston.  All our content and the innovative business solutions we provide invite Houstonians to join conversations about a community we’ve been committed to covering and helping prosper for more than 120 years. The community we all call home.

About Hearst Newspapers:

With 2,500 employees across the nation, HNP encompasses a network of 24 daily and 52 weekly publications, including the San Francisco Chronicle, Houston Chronicle, San Antonio Express-News and Albany Times Union, several top digital-only news and lifestyle sites, marketing services businesses, and entertainment businesses such as King Features Syndicate. 

At HNP, we are investing in new and innovative ways to tell stories – growing newsrooms, diversifying tools, evolving platforms – to support the millions of people who trust us each month to help them make decisions, take action and be inspired.  

Be a part of something bigger – your headline awaits.

Recognizing the diverse needs of our candidates, if you are interested in applying for employment and need assistance or an accommodation to use our website or regarding the application process, please contact us by email at [email protected].  Please do not use this email address to inquire about the status of applications. We will only respond to inquiries concerning requests for a reasonable accommodation through this email address.

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