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Education Accountability Reporter

AT The Washington Post
The Washington Post

Education Accountability Reporter

Washington, DC

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.

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Why This Role Matters

The Washington Post is looking for a dynamic, resourceful and collaborative reporter to produce high-impact accountability reporting, incisive narratives and scoops pertaining to the country's changing education landscape.

This reporter is part of our national education team but will work across teams to produce ambitious, revelatory journalism about the current state and future of education. A high metabolism, dogged reporting style and collaborative nature are key.

This reporter will explore the forces reshaping American schools and illuminate the systems of power influencing the lives of students, their families and their communities. This includes the cultural and political battles playing out in classrooms, the triumphs and challenges facing K-12 schools and higher education nationwide, and the impact of federal policies at the state and local levels. We're also looking for smart, human-centered reporting on how education intersects with broader social, political and economic issues.

Responsibilities:
  • Identify, pitch, report, and write stories that respond to breaking news, major stories and emerging trends from the realm of education, often within the news cycle.
  • Collaborate with beat reporters, the breaking news desk, investigative reporters, data reporters, multimedia teams, editors and others.
  • Conduct in-depth reporting using public records, interviews, data analysis and digital tools to uncover new information and hold powerful institutions and people accountable.
  • Develop sources across a variety of beats critical to our coverage, including researchers, government, businesses and more.
  • Maintain the highest standards of journalistic ethics, accuracy and fairness in all reporting.
Preferred qualifications:
  • At least five years' professional reporting experience covering state or national education.
  • A track record of distinctive enterprise journalism in the public interest.
  • Experience covering major breaking news stories, pursuing accountability targets and developing new conceptual approaches to stories.
  • A collaborative mindset and eagerness to experiment with a variety of story forms.
  • Eagle-eyed news judgment.
  • A quick metabolism and competitive drive.
  • An abundance of ideas, energy and determination.
  • Nimble and creative, with the ability to prioritize reporting targets.
  • Exceptional communication and organizational skills.
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 July 11 will be prioritized. Cover letters should be addressed to National Education Editor Chastity Pratt, National Editor Jennifer Amur and Managing Editor Peter Spiegel.

The salary range for this position is: $97,400 - $162,300. The actual salary within this range will depend on individual skills, experience, and qualifications as they relate to specific job requirements.
Collaboration makes us stronger. That's why our offices are designed with open layouts, modern technology, and easy access to transportation. With certain exceptions for newsgathering and business travel, we work on-site five days a week.

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.
Your story awaits. Apply today!

Learn more about The Post at careers.washingtonpost.com.

Client-provided location(s): Washington, DC, USA
Job ID: washington-JR-90275435
Employment Type: Full Time

Perks and Benefits

  • Health and Wellness

    • FSA
    • On-Site Gym
    • HSA With Employer Contribution
    • Health Insurance
    • Dental Insurance
    • Vision Insurance
    • Life Insurance
    • Short-Term Disability
    • Long-Term Disability
  • Parental Benefits

    • Non-Birth Parent or Paternity Leave
    • Birth Parent or Maternity Leave
  • Office Life and Perks

    • Commuter Benefits Program
    • Casual Dress
  • Vacation and Time Off

    • Personal/Sick Days
    • Paid Holidays
    • Paid Vacation
  • Financial and Retirement

    • Pension
    • 401(K) With Company Matching
  • Professional Development

    • Promote From Within
    • Shadowing Opportunities
  • Diversity and Inclusion

    • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program

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