AP Elections Decision Analyst

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiasednews in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world's population sees AP journalism every day.

Why this role matters:

The Associated Press seeks an elections data analyst who's passionate about using data and statistics to understand American elections to serve as a key member of AP's decision team. Your work will include declaring winners in U.S. elections with AP's commitment to accuracy, and helping to build and maintain the tools required to do so. You'll join a team of researchers, data scientists, developers, journalists and others to deliver election analysis and call election winners for AP Elections customers and our global news audience. This position on our Elections Analytics team is based in Washington, D.C. and is covered by AP's agreement with the News Media Guild.

What you will do:

• Reporting to the Director of Election Analytics, you will be part of the team that declares winners in U.S. elections, supporting the AP's unique role in the American democracy.
• Your primary focus will be on the work of declaring winners in U.S. elections. On general election nights this includes races for president, U.S. Congress and governor. You will also be responsible for helping determine winners of elections up and down the ballot, from state legislature to major statewide offices, in primary, general and special elections.
• You will study past election results, election rules, demographic patterns and other relevant factors and understanding how they influence our understanding of election results.
• You'll contribute subject matter expertise to help iterate on the statistical models and tools AP uses to analyze election results, and will help build and maintain that tooling.
• Your work will inform that of reporters, data analysts, developers and other stakeholders across the wider AP newsroom as it works to explain what's behind the numbers and show the how and the why of winning and losing.

Who you are:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. A master's degree or equivalent experience is preferred.
• Proficiency in one or more programming languages used for data science such as R or Python, with R being preferred.
• Experience working with a wide range of elections data, including election results, precinct data, GIS data, census data and public opinion research.
• All applicants must be able to work in the U.S. or be able to gain permission to do so.
• Advanced-level professional competency in written and spoken English. Professional competency in a language besides English is a plus.
• The ability and willingness at night and on weekends, as coverage demands, as AP is a 24/7 operation.

What will set you apart:

We're seeking someone who is genuinely excited about the mechanics of American elections and understands the critical importance of informing voters about the outcome of the decisions they make when choosing for whom to cast a ballot. We're eager to find someone who has worked on or supported a decision desk, but open to someone who has experience in analyzing election results and a background in statistics and/or building tools used to analyze data and synthesize complex information. Most importantly, we want a teammate who is eager to advance AP's tradition of excellence in election reporting. You have demonstrated excellence as a journalist or researcher reporting on or studying elections, including in the mechanics of how elections are conducted and results are reported to the public. We're looking for someone who thrives when taking on a challenging assignment with unmovable deadlines and enjoys delivering for customers who are among AP's most demanding.

Why join us:

• A mission-driven, inclusive environment focused on both individual and collective success.
• Opportunities for professional development to help you reach your career goals.
• Access to tools, mentorship, and resources tailored to elevate your proficiency and contributions.

Salary & Benefits:

This position is covered by AP's agreement with the News Media Guild. The anticipated salary range for this position is $85,214.48 to $152,798.88, based on a candidate's skills, qualifications and location. The Associated Press offers comprehensive benefits, which include:

• Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage
• Retirement benefits
• Company paid life insurance
• Paid vacation and sick days
• Paid parental leave for any new parent
• Mental well-being resources

Application deadline is March 6, at 11:59p.m. ET.

AP seeks to build an inclusive organization grounded in respect for differences. We support all aspects of diversity and provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a veteran, or other characteristic protected by law.