Breaking News Reporter
About The Position
The Washington Post is seeking an energetic, versatile and highly competitive journalist to join the News Hub as a Breaking News Reporter. This role sits at the center of The Post’s newsroom, covering the biggest stories as they unfold and helping drive urgent, authoritative journalism across platforms. Breaking News Reporters are deployed on major news events of all kinds — from natural disasters and mass shootings to political developments, court decisions and international crises — working closely with editors and reporters across the newsroom to deliver fast, accurate and compelling coverage. We are looking for a reporter with exceptional news instincts, a high metabolism and the ability to thrive under pressure. The ideal candidate is eager to jump into unfamiliar topics, quickly master complex developments and write with speed, clarity and authority. This role requires a journalist who can move seamlessly from live developments to deeper reporting, helping readers understand not just what is happening but why it matters. As a member of the News Hub, this reporter will be part of a team designed to sharpen The Post’s journalism, elevate our presentation and ensure we are delivering essential coverage whenever major news breaks. This position is based in our Washington, D.C., newsroom and may include night, weekend and holiday shifts.
Requirements
- A track record of strong reporting in a fast-paced news environment.
- Demonstrated ability to report and write quickly without sacrificing accuracy.
- Excellent news judgment and an instinct for identifying what matters most in a developing story.
- Strong interviewing and source-building skills.
- Clear, engaging writing and the ability to explain complex events succinctly.
- A deep understanding of digital audience behaviors and the kinds of stories, angles and storyforms that support our growth strategies.
- A collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively across teams.
- Flexibility, adaptability and comfort covering a wide range of topics.
- A commitment to accuracy, fairness and the highest standards of journalism.
Responsibilities
- Cover major breaking news events as they unfold, delivering timely, accurate and authoritative reporting.
- Work across subjects and coverage areas, quickly developing expertise on fast-moving stories.
- Produce clean, clear copy under deadline pressure and contribute to live and developing coverage.
- Collaborate with reporters, editors, visual journalists and audience teams across the newsroom.
- Identify opportunities for original reporting, exclusive details and enterprise angles within breaking stories.
- Help readers understand the significance and broader context of major developments.
- Contribute to innovative storytelling approaches and formats designed to engage audiences across platforms.
- Support newsroom-wide coverage efforts during major national and international news events.
Benefits
- Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage
- Company-paid pension and 401(k) match
- Three weeks of vacation and up to three weeks of paid sick leave
- Nine paid holidays and two personal days
- 20 weeks paid parental leave for any new parent
- Robust mental health resources
- Backup care and caregiver concierge services
- Gender affirming services
- Pet insurance
- Free Post digital subscription
- Leadership and career development programs
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
