Energy and Data Center Reporter
Hearst · Houston
Role Overview
The Houston Chronicle is seeking an ambitious reporter to cover one of the most consequential stories shaping Texas’ future: the intersection of energy, the electrical grid and the rapid expansion of data centers. Based on our Business desk, this reporter will examine how unprecedented demand for power is transforming the state’s electric system, economy and communities.
This beat sits at the crossroads of business, public policy, infrastructure and climate. The reporter will cover the power industry with a particular focus on how Texas’ electrical grid is adapting after the 2021 winter storm, how utilities and regulators are responding to growing demand, and how the explosive growth of data centers is reshaping energy planning across the state.
We are looking for a journalist who thrives on accountability reporting, develops deep sources and consistently breaks news. This reporter will move beyond corporate announcements to explain who benefits, who bears the costs and how decisions made by utilities, regulators, technology companies and elected officials affect Texans.
Hybrid: We operate on a hybrid work week schedule.
What You’ll Do
- Cover Texas’ electrical grid, power markets and the rapidly growing demand for electricity driven by data centers and other large industrial users.
- Break exclusive news on utilities, grid operators, regulators, energy companies and technology firms.
- Develop deep sourcing across the energy industry, state agencies, utilities, lawmakers, environmental groups and major technology companies.
- Produce accountability journalism that examines grid reliability, infrastructure investments, ratepayer impacts, regulatory decisions and resilience planning.
- Explain complex energy and technology issues in clear, accessible ways that help readers understand how they affect daily life.
- Use public records, regulatory filings, data analysis and investigative reporting techniques to uncover exclusive stories.
- Produce a mix of breaking news, scoops, utility content that breaks down complex topics and longer-term accountability projects.
What You’ll Bring
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has approximately 5 years of relevant reporting experience, preferably covering energy, business, infrastructure, government or another complex policy beat.
- Has a track record of breaking news, cultivating sources and producing exclusive reporting.
- Can translate complicated technical and regulatory issues into compelling journalism for a broad audience.
- Is naturally curious about how industries, markets and government intersect and can identify stories others overlook.
- Is comfortable digging into public records, financial documents, regulatory filings and datasets.
- Understands that business reporting is ultimately about people and can connect corporate and policy decisions to their real-world impact.
Additional Information
- Sponsorship: This position does not provide immigration sponsorship. Applicants must have the right to work in the U.S. without immigration sponsorship.
- Accommodations: We are committed to an accessible application process. If you need an accommodation to apply, please contact hnpemployment@hearst.com. This email address is for accommodation requests only.
Benefits
We support our employees through personal and professional development and promote physical, financial and emotional wellbeing for employees and their families. Our benefits include:
- Physical Wellbeing: Medical, dental and vision coverage to help keep you and your family healthy.
- Invest for the Future: Competitive retirement plan with a matching program in most markets.
- Generous Paid Time Off: Ample time off, including holidays and vacation.
- Paid Parental Leave: Paid leave to support growing families and new parents.
- Monthly Child & Dependent Care Reimbursement: Financial support for the care of your loved ones.
- Emotional Wellbeing: Mental wellness benefits to support your emotional wellbeing.
- LGBTQ+ & Inclusive Health Services: Inclusive healthcare designed for individual needs.
- Fertility Coverage & Menopause Support: Support throughout different stages of your health and family journey.
- Pet Wellness Reimbursement & Rover Credits: Support to help keep your pets happy and healthy.
- And more: Learn more about additional benefits and details here.