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Policy Reporter Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Semafor

Healthcare Reporter

Washington, DC

$130K - $200K/yr

The future of healthcare and health policy is already taking shape, affected as much by AI and ... closely with Semafor reporters and editors in DC and around the world to land them.

Politico

National Politics Reporter

Arlington, VA · On-site

This reporter will be part of a team focused on owning the biggest political storylines during a ... The ability to translate complex political and policy dynamics into clear, insightful coverage * A ...

Politico

Reporter (Future Talent Pool)

Arlington, VA · On-site

We're looking for reporters with a deep interest in how the government enacts policies that touch the lives of the public and shape our future. The successful candidates will have a track record of ...

Politico

National Politics Reporter

Arlington, VA · On-site

This reporter will be part of a team focused on owning the biggest political storylines during a ... The ability to translate complex political and policy dynamics into clear, insightful coverage * A ...

The New York Times

Dealbook Reporter, DC

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$27.75 - $37.75/hr

DealBook is hiring a Washington-based reporter to cover the intersection of business, policy, and power from the capital. You are someone who can bring readers behind the scenes in Washington ...

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Policy Reporter information

See Washington salary details

$17K

$48K

$87.8K

How much do policy reporter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy reporter in Washington is $47,997.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,200.00 and $56,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Policy Reporter vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy ReporterPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or related field; knowledge of policy issuesBachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, or related field; analytical skills
Work EnvironmentMedia outlets, news agencies, or online platformsGovernment agencies, think tanks, or research organizations
Employer & Industry UsageFocuses on reporting and communicating policy developmentsFocuses on analyzing, evaluating, and developing policy options

Policy Reporters primarily gather and communicate policy news to the public through media channels, while Policy Analysts evaluate and develop policy options for organizations or government bodies. Both roles require strong understanding of policy issues, but differ in their focus—reporting versus analysis.

What does a Policy Reporter do?

A Policy Reporter is a journalist who specializes in covering issues related to government policies, regulations, and public affairs. They research, investigate, and report on legislative developments, policy changes, and their impact on society. Policy Reporters often interview policymakers, experts, and stakeholders to provide balanced and informative news coverage. Their work helps inform the public and influence discussions around important policy topics.

How does a Policy Reporter typically collaborate with government officials and subject matter experts to ensure accurate reporting?

Policy Reporters frequently interact with government officials, public relations teams, and subject matter experts to gather reliable information and provide context for their stories. This collaboration often involves attending press briefings, conducting interviews, and verifying statements to ensure accurate and balanced reporting. Building trustful relationships and maintaining professionalism are key, as these connections help reporters access timely insights and clarify complex policy details. Effective communication and a strong ethical approach are essential to navigate sensitive topics and provide readers with clear, factual news.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Policy Reporter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Policy Reporter, you need strong research, writing, and analytical skills, typically supported by a degree in journalism, political science, or a related field. Familiarity with content management systems, data visualization tools, and newsroom software is often required. Exceptional interpersonal communication, curiosity, and the ability to distill complex policy issues for diverse audiences are standout soft skills. These capabilities are essential for producing accurate, insightful reporting that informs the public and influences policy discussions.
What are popular job titles related to Policy Reporter jobs in Washington? For Policy Reporter jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Policy Reporter jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Policy Reporter jobs in Washington are:
Policy Reporter jobs near you

Healthcare Reporter

Semafor

Washington, DC

$130K - $200K/yr

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

About the role

We are looking for a formidable reporter based in Washington, DC, to get scoops and dig into the biggest stories at the intersection of healthcare policy, politics, business and power.

The future of healthcare and health policy is already taking shape, affected as much by AI and blockbuster drugs like GLP-1s as by the remaking of HHS and vaccine policy under Robert F. Kennedy Jr. With politics consistently veering back to partisan battles over Obamacare and Medicaid, the 2026 and 2028 election cycles will also take shape, in part, as rising healthcare and insurance costs bear down on voters who are increasingly aware they're no longer aided by subsidies from Washington. 

This role encourages you to think big - following your sources to memorable scoops and stories - and affords you the opportunity to shape a new Semafor healthcare offering from the ground up. That includes anchoring a weekly newsletter and an annual healthcare event. 

In addition to getting scoops, we'll expect you to contribute to our growing video offerings and write authoritative analysis and views that actually say something - smart, original analysis that helps a sophisticated audience of executives, investors, policymakers, and other decision makers understand what's really happening and why it matters. You'll cultivate deep sources on Capitol Hill, inside the White House, corporate boardrooms, and federal agencies to find stories no one else has and work closely with Semafor reporters and editors in DC and around the world to land them. 

Responsibilities
  • Produce a regular cadence of scoops and definitive analytical pieces that set Semafor apart.
  • Anchor a weekly healthcare newsletter and an annual healthcare event
  • Build and maintain high-level sources across pharma, insurance, healthcare lobbies, Congress, the White House, and the political and regulatory ecosystem around health policy.
  • Write agenda-setting stories that situate individual corporate or policy decisions in the larger context of capital accumulation, political polarization, and tech transformation
  • Collaborate closely with Semafor journalists across business, finance, politics, and our international bureaus to produce breakout, cross-beat stories.
  • Appear on TV, podcasts, and Semafor's marquee live journalism events, hosting on-the-record interviews with senior healthcare and political leaders.
What you bring
  • At least five years of experience reporting on healthcare.
  • A proven ability to blend insider knowledge with authoritative "what-it-means" analysis for a sophisticated audience.
  • Someone who thinks beyond the story of the day-spotting the bigger themes, the quiet power shifts, and the regulatory or funding decisions that only make sense months later.
  • A self-starter with experience in fast-moving, ambitious newsroom environments and the willingness to jump in wherever the team needs you.
  • A contagious passion for news in all its forms, and a genuine obsession with where healthcare, business, policy, and power intersect.

Compensation

The base salary for this position ranges from $130,000 to $200,000. Individual compensation varies based on experience, qualifications, and scope of responsibility.

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