Justice Reporter

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 an experienced, rigorous and meticulous journalist with a strong track record of source reporting to cover the Department of Justice, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other federal law enforcement agencies. This reporter will chronicle and examine investigations, indictments and prosecutions across a wide range of subjects and topic areas, as well as explore the inner workings of an intensely scrutinized realm of the government and hold those in power to account.  

The ideal candidate will be a fast, deft and polished writer with a sophisticated understanding of criminal justice, national security and the way Washington works. We expect this reporter to deliver news scoops, smart analysis and quick-turn stories when developments require, while also balancing a steady cadence of enterprise and investigative stories that illuminate the work of federal law enforcement for readers both inside Washington and well beyond the capital. 

This coverage area is essential to The Post’s mission. We value experience managing highly sensitive source reporting. And we prize a collaborative spirit and an enthusiasm to partner with colleagues across the Post’s National staff, as well as those in the International, Investigative and Local departments. 

This position is based in our Washington newsroom. 

Responsibilities 

• Break news stories and write analysis about federal law enforcement, including investigations of prominent individuals, high-profile national-security probes, gun violence and drug trafficking  

• Deliver ambitious enterprise shaped by original reporting and fresh insights 

• A high metabolism, reporting and writing as urgent news and events require 

• A commitment to fair, accurate and rigorous reporting, upholding the highest standards of journalism ethics 

Preferred Qualifications 

• A track record of high-profile scoops, exclusive stories and investigations 

• The proven ability to cover breaking news with speed, precision and authority 

• Experience executing deep enterprise and compelling explainers in a variety of story formats 

• A deep source base and robust knowledge of federal law enforcement and criminal justice issues generally 

Interested candidates should upload a cover letter, résumé and three 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 Oct. 4 will be prioritized. The cover letter should be addressed to Justice and Immigration Editor Debbi Wilgoren, Deputy National Editor Amy Fiscus, National Editor Philip Rucker and Executive Editor Matt Murray.  

Compensation and Benefits:

The salary range for this position is: $137,300.00 - $228,900.00. The actual salary within this range will depend on individual skills, experience and qualifications as they relate to specific job requirements.

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

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. 

Ever wondered if what you are doing will Impact Tomorrow? At The Washington Post, every employee shapes the way we deliver the news. Find the career that’s right for you

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