Policy Reporter Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel is looking for an experienced political reporter to lead our national coverage, focused on Wisconsin, our political representatives, key state concerns in our nation’s capital.

This role is an essential part of our government and political coverage team, bringing exclusive and distinct coverage to a state that in recent history has been the most divided in the nation.

This will be a reporter who can zero in on how politics and government affect individuals, cut through jargon, understand complicated subjects, find outstanding examples and tell engaging stories.

The successful candidate will have the drive to provide thoughtful, truth-seeking reporting like no other news source. A key is the ability to generate in-depth political reporting, drawing on expertise in voting, campaign finance and polling, as well as insight into key policy areas and spending priorities affecting Wisconsin.

We're looking for a self-starting reporter who can build a web of sources that will lead to a mix of daily and enterprise stories, including ones that can readily be told on all digital and social platforms.

A plus will be a journalist with skills to provide quick stand-up videos with lawmakers on important topics and other approaches to expand audience across new platforms.

Candidates should have an existing familiarity with Wisconsin or D.C. politics and be willing to report in both locations. We expect to launch this role in Wisconsin during key election months, with the possibility of the role ultimately being based in D.C., based on the candidate.

• Responsibilities:   Use source development, data and document reporting and strategic thinking to identify and report on key issues.
• Offer independent, innovative thinking in shaping coverage of those issues.
• Experiment with video, social media and other tools to report and share information as widely as possible.
• Uses metrics to gauge audience interests and works to develop coverage plans to better satisfy audience needs.
• Demonstrate clear concise writing skills with strong nut graphs and “why this is important” content.
• Help readers find answers and solutions.
• Develop a trusted reputation in coverage area. 

Requirements:

• Bachelor's or master’s in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of three years of reporting experience.
• Strong command of newswriting grammar and style.
• Strong copy-editing skills and the ability to produce content that is clean, accurate and publication ready.
• Is passionate and enthusiastic about news and content that will work well with audiences on social platforms.
• Is comfortable using social media platforms to enhance reporting and deliver stories.
• Understands reporting ethics and sourcing.
• Excels in a fast-paced news environment and understands the digital first mission.
• Collaborates well with others and can work with a team on the biggest stories.
• Must be willing to travel on short notice to cover breaking news events.
• This role requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
• Employment is contingent on passing a post-offer pre-employment background check, motor vehicle record check & urinalysis drug screen. 

We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don’t limit your upload to a resume; show us what you’ve done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order: 

• Your resume – one to two pages.
• A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
• Links to 3-6 online samples of your work.
• Show us what you’ve produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role.

It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.

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The annualized base salary for this role will range between $55,500 and $$86,719. Base compensation is reflective of many factors, including, but not limited to, the market in which one lives/works, individual education level, skills, certifications and experience. Note: variable compensation is not reflected in these figures and based on the role, may be applicable.