Consumer Finance Watchdog Reporter (Fintech)

TL;DR

Consumer Finance Watchdog Reporter (Fintech): Producing high-impact investigative and accountability journalism covering mortgage lending with an accent on protecting consumers from predatory practices. Focus on uncovering questionable industry practices, translating complex financial data into actionable insights, and building evidence-based narratives.

Location: Remote or Hybrid (New York, NY or Charlotte, NC). Must be able to work Eastern Standard Time (EST) hours.

Total Cash Compensation: $105,000 - $187,500 per year + equity

Company

Bankrate is a next-generation technology platform helping millions of consumers make smarter financial choices using proprietary data and AI-driven innovation.

What you will do

• Pitch, research, and write original investigative stories that uncover questionable practices in the mortgage industry.
• Pursue public records, data sets, and expert interviews to build evidence-based narratives.
• Translate complex financial systems (mortgages, refinancing, home equity) into accessible, reader-first narratives.
• Collaborate with editors, data reporters, and multimedia producers to integrate charts and interactive features.
• Ensure rigorous fact-checking and adherence to editorial standards for transparency and fairness.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in investigative, watchdog, or accountability journalism.
• Proven track record of producing impactful stories (demonstrated via published clips).
• Must be based in the US and able to work Eastern Standard Time hours.
• Ability to analyze financial documents, corporate filings, and data to uncover hidden insights.
• Strong interviewing skills and the ability to cultivate diverse sources from regulators to everyday people.
• Capacity to explain complex financial topics in a clear and relatable way.

Nice to have

• Experience with financial reporting or consumer-focused journalism.
• Understanding of the mortgage industry, key players, and specific loan products.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, and vision).
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) starting at 20 days per year.
• Paid Parental Bonding Benefit Program.
• Life insurance and short/long-term disability coverage.