State Department Reporter

Job Description

The Washington Post is looking for an experienced reporter to join its national security team, delivering agenda-setting coverage of the State Department and U.S. foreign policy.

We are seeking a journalist who has a track record of producing consequential scoops and deeply reported enterprise about the U.S. diplomatic establishment. A deep understanding of the architecture and modern history of American foreign policy is required. Experience in the State Department pool or reporting overseas is a plus.

The ideal candidate would bring a robust source network within the State Department and the National Security Council and across Washington and foreign capitals — along with a willingness to travel, a nose for news, and an ability to write with sweep and authority. The reporter will be expected to move quickly — and be the first — to break news, while juggling sharply framed analysis and feature-length enterprise.

We expect this reporter to reveal new and compelling information about major storylines such as the war in Ukraine, tensions over Taiwan and conflict in the Middle East, and shed light on diplomatic drama in rarely covered parts of the world.

The national security team is looking for someone who brings mastery to their beat and can gracefully and seamlessly work with other journalists across The Post newsroom, displaying a competitive sensibility and a creative, collaborative eye for storytelling.

This position is based in our Washington newsroom. We have a strong internal candidate for this role, but we are keen to hear from qualified candidates who are interested in contributing to this coverage.

Candidates should upload a cover letter, a résumé and three to five examples of their work (as PDFs) to our jobs portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, but those received by 5/12/2023 will be prioritized. The cover letter should be addressed to National Editor Matea Gold, Deputy National Editor Philip Rucker and National Security Editor Ben Pauker.

Wherever you are in your life or career, The Washington Post offers comprehensive and inclusive benefits for every step of your journey:

• 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

Benefits may vary based on the job, full-time or part-time schedule, location, and collectively bargained status. The Post strives to provide its readers with high-quality, trustworthy news and information while constantly innovating. That mission is best served by a diverse, multi-generational workforce with varied life experiences and perspectives. All cultures and backgrounds are welcomed.

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