Application Instructions
Please list all professional experience and explain any gaps in employment history. All of your application materials, which may include PDF files of work samples and/or links to audio, video, photography or graphics, must be uploaded to the field labeled Resume/Cover Letter/Work Samples to be considered for the position.
Job Description
The Washington Post is seeking a deeply experienced, rigorous and dynamic deputyeditor to helplead our coverage of the White House, guiding a marquee team to break news, illuminate the inner workings of the Trump administration and deepen the public's understanding of a historic time in American politics and governance.
We expect this editor to balance spot developments with deeper coverage and to help reporters conceive compelling stories that set The Post apart on a prominent and highly competitive beat. We are looking for someone with excellent news judgment and a track record of guiding original reporting and framing stories sharply, who recognizes news moments both big and small and assigns coverage accordingly. This person must excel both at editing breaking news in a deadline-driven environment as well as delivering high-impact stories that capture complex topics with authority, nuance, clarity and sensitivity, and in all cases elevating copy with the appropriate sweep and dynamism.
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The ideal candidate has experience managing talented, veteran reporters and positioning them for growth and success, with a record of fruitful collaboration. Just as crucially, this editor knows when to pull back or say no, deploying resources judiciously and holding off on publishing to insist on more reporting when necessary.
Responsibilities:
- Drive White House coverage that sets the agenda with scoop-driven reporting that clearly explains political and real-world implications and reveals how the president wields power.
- Manage reporters. Help them set priorities on a busy beat, identify ambitious targets and hone their craft.
- Edit stories to the highest standards. Sharpen and elevate copy on deadline while also ensuring fairness, rigor, precision and excellence in story framing.
- Make sound decisions about sourcing, story construction and other editorial matters.
- Collaborate and work collegially with the White House editor and fellow deputy White House editor, other editors and reporters on the politics staff and teams across the newsroom to provide the most comprehensive and visually dynamic coverage.
- Anticipate coverage needs and requests from senior editors; consistently form coverage plans and communicate them in a timely fashion to stakeholders around the newsroom.
- Edit with the reader in mind. Publish stories when readers are interested and at appropriate lengths. Optimize stories for digital success and embrace creative storytelling to identify the most compelling formats.
- At least 5 years of professional journalism experience, including at least 2 years as an editor, and a track record of distinction. Experience with U.S. political news is essential.
- Experience covering major, long-running breaking news stories, pursuing accountability targets and developing creative ideas for text and other formats.
- Exceptional communication and organizational skills.
- Experience developing sources on a competitive beat and/or coaching reporters to do so, with a resulting track record of scoops.
Interested applicants should submit a r esum e and a cover letter outlining their vision for the role to our jobs portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, but those received by Mar. 21 will be prioritized. Cover letters should be addressed to Interim National Editor Mike Semel, Senior Editor for National News and Strategy Rachel Van Dongen, Politics Editor Nick Baumann and White House Editor Amy Gardner.
The starting salary range for this position is: $122,500.00 - $204,100.00 USD. The actual starting salary within this range will depend on individual skills, experience and qualifications as they relate to specific job requirements. This position may be eligible for a bonus or incentive program, and a member of the Talent Acquisition team will discuss bonus payment terms and conditions during the interview process.
The Washington Post's policy for employees is five days per week in the office, with exceptions for newsgathering and general business travel.
Compensation and Benefits
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
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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