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Climate Reporter Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

The Guardian

Political Enterprise Reporter

Washington, DC · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Core coverage areas include US politics, technology, the climate emergency, economic and racial ... The Guardian US is looking for a Political Enterprise Reporter based in Washington, DC. The ideal ...

Climate Power

Director, Clean Energy Economy

Washington, DC · On-site

$113K - $135K/yr

Initiate, conceive, develop, and implement new projects * Assist Senior Advisor in communications interactions and products, including op-eds and reporter engagements. Represent Climate Power with ...

Arena

Third Way: Press Advisor

Washington, DC · On-site

$68K - $75K/yr

... climate and energy, economy, education, health care, national security, politics, and social policy ... This person will conduct initial outreach to--and maintain Third Way relationships with--reporters ...

AOPA

Communications Specialist

Washington, DC · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Develop network with key aviation/transportation outlets and reporters in order to increase AOPA ... Generally, a climate-controlled environment with occasional exposure to outdoor weather conditions ...

AOPA

Communications Specialist

Washington, DC · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Develop network with key aviation/transportation outlets and reporters in order to increase AOPA ... Generally, a climate-controlled environment with occasional exposure to outdoor weather conditions ...

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Climate Reporter information

See Washington, DC salary details

$5

$26

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How much do climate reporter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for climate reporter in Washington, DC is $26.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $31.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a climate reporter do?

A climate reporter investigates and writes stories related to climate change, environmental policies, and the impact of human activity on the planet. They interview experts, analyze scientific studies, and cover events such as climate conferences or policy changes. Their goal is to inform the public about climate issues, highlight solutions, and hold governments and corporations accountable for their environmental impact.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a climate reporter?

To thrive as a Climate Reporter, you need strong research skills, journalistic writing ability, and a solid understanding of climate science and environmental issues, often with a degree in journalism or environmental studies. Familiarity with data analysis tools, digital publishing platforms, and multimedia storytelling techniques is typically required. Curiosity, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate complex topics clearly help set standout reporters apart. These skills are essential for accurately informing the public, holding stakeholders accountable, and engaging audiences on urgent climate matters.

How does a climate reporter typically collaborate with scientists and policy experts to ensure accurate and impactful reporting?

Climate Reporters regularly engage with scientists, policy experts, and environmental organizations to gather reliable data and nuanced perspectives for their stories. This collaboration often includes conducting interviews, attending conferences, and reviewing scientific studies to translate complex information into accessible content for the public. Building strong professional relationships with credible sources is key to maintaining accuracy and depth in reporting. Additionally, Climate Reporters may work closely with editors and multimedia teams to present information in compelling formats, such as infographics or video segments.

What is the difference between Climate Reporter vs Environmental Journalist?

AspectClimate ReporterEnvironmental Journalist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in journalism, environmental science, or related fields; knowledge of climate issuesBachelor's in journalism, environmental science, or related fields; focus on environmental topics
Work EnvironmentMedia outlets, online platforms, TV, radioMedia outlets, print and digital publications, online platforms
Industry UsageSpecialized in climate change and policy reportingBroader environmental issues including pollution, conservation, and climate
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for climate-specific reporting rolesBroader environmental reporting roles

Climate Reporters focus specifically on climate change, policies, and scientific developments, while Environmental Journalists cover a wider range of environmental topics. Both roles require similar credentials and work in media environments, but their scope differs, with Climate Reporters specializing in climate issues.

What are popular job titles related to Climate Reporter jobs in Washington, DC?

For Climate Reporter jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Climate Reporter jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Climate Reporter jobs in Washington, DC are:

Climate Reporter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Climate Reporter job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,467 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Climate Policy Correspondent

The New York Times

Washington, DC

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

The Climate Desk at the New York Times is looking for a high-energy and collaborative journalist to join the team of reporters covering climate and environmental policy and politics.

Climate policy has swung wildly in Washington over the last few years, and we're looking for a reporter who can help readers understand what's happening and why. We want to dig into what's different, who's influencing policymakers and who's benefiting from the shifts and how changing government rules and regulations play out around the country. Our team has a broad mandate for big stories on everything from the National Park Service to the Environmental Protection Agency, from the growth of nuclear power to the Trump administration's war on wind.

You should have a track record of scoops and reporting that has helped to shape the national conversation. You should have a body of work that shows creativity, deep sourcing, broad curiosity, an eye for news and a command of complex ideas.

You should also be a fluid writer who can step back, connect the dots and tell the larger story in compelling ways.

This is an in-office position, based in Washington, D.C. and includes regular attendance in the office four days each week. There may be some flexibility to work remotely per your departmental guidance.

Responsibilities:

  • Break news on climate and environmental policy, focusing on the E.P.A., the Interior and Energy departments and Congress.

  • Pitch, report and write news and surprising enterprise on climate and environmental policy and politics.

  • Think visually about the most compelling ways to present stories.

  • Contribute to live coverage on breaking news stories.

  • Help readers understand the impact of regulations and the political forces at play.

  • Collaborate with other reporters on news and enterprise.

  • Deliver fast, clean copy in accessible style on complicated topics.

  • Ensure accuracy and clarity.

  • Work collaboratively with members of a multidisciplinary team.

  • Meet tight deadlines and be able to thrive in a daily, unpredictable news environment.

  • Demonstrate support and understanding of our value of journalistic independence and a strong commitment to our mission to seek the truth and help people understand the world.

  • This role reports to the Deputy Editor, Climate.

Basic Qualifications:

  • 5+ years of experience working for a daily news organization

  • 3+ years of demonstrated beat authority

  • A portfolio that demonstrates you are well-versed in current policy, and have a growing circle of expert sources among researchers, policymakers, analysts, public interest groups and lawmakers

  • A portfolio that includes news, enterprise and analysis

  • Crisp, clear, writing skills that also demonstrate a mastery of journalistic style and standards

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Facility with visual and alternative forms of storytelling

  • 8+ years of experience working for a daily news organization

This position is represented by the NewsGuild of NY.

REQ- 020153

Additional Compensation and Benefits
For roles in the U.S., dependent on your role, you may be eligible for variable pay, such as an annual bonus and restricted stock. Benefits may include medical, dental and vision benefits, Flexible Spending Accounts (F.S.A.s), a company-matching 401(k) plan, employee stock purchase plan, paid vacation, paid sick days, paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement and professional development programs.
For roles outside of the U.S., information on benefits will be provided during the interview process.

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