Research Assistant – U.S. Public Records Requests (Bodycam Footage for YouTube)

About the Role
I run a YouTube channel focused on bodycam footage and need help sourcing it via U.S. public records requests (FOIA / state equivalents). No prior FOIA experience needed — I'll provide a template and process guide once you're past the initial screen. I need someone organized, research-savvy, and honest about realistic timelines.

What You'll Do

Find suitable i ----------
File public records requests (template provided)
Track deadlines and follow up with agencies
Deliver footage along with case details (agency name, case number, dates, confirmation number)

Original Footage Only
Footage must come directly from the agency's official release process — not re-uploads from YouTube, Facebook , news sites, etc. Each delivery must include the agency name, case/i ---------- number, filing date, release date, and any confirmation or reference number provided by the agency.

Requirements

Strong written English and attention to detail
Comfortable with independent online research
Highly organized, able to track multiple open requests at once
Honest communicator — realistic timelines, not what sounds good

Nice to Have (not required)

Prior experience with FOIA or public records requests
Familiarity with records portals (NextRequest, GovQA, JustFOIA, etc.)
Experience working with journalists, researchers, or content creators

Pay:

Trial request: $10, paid only on successful footage delivery
Ongoing: $1-2 per request filed (any outcome) + $15-20 bonus per successful delivery

Hiring Process

Short written application (see below)
Paid trial: one real request using my template and process guide, paid only on successful delivery
Ongoing rate structure if it goes well

How to Apply
Please include:

A couple of sentences on relevant research, writing, or admin experience
Your honest estimate of how long a request like this typically takes, start to finish
Your availability (hours per week)
A link to your resume/CV if you have one (not required, but helpful)