Senior Reporter, Pentagon and World Affairs

Overview

USA TODAY, a digital-first news organization, is seeking a dynamic and driven Pentagon and World Affairs Correspondent to join our national team. This role is ideal for a journalist who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about delivering exclusive, high-impact stories that inform and engage a broad audience.

Job Purpose

The correspondent will cover the Pentagon, global conflict and U.S. national security, producing fast-turn news updates and deeply reported enterprise journalism. This beat demands urgency, accuracy, and a human-centered approach to storytelling that brings clarity to complex global issues.

Responsibilities:

• Stay on top of big breaking news concerning national security and world affairs and write a steady stream of distinctive enterprise features.
• Illuminate how the Trump administration is overhauling the Defense Department.
• Cover the impact of war and overseas deployments on U.S. service members and their families.
• Report on health care for military veterans and the unique nature of military life.
• Develop and maintain robust sourcing across the military, national security agencies, Congress and experts.
• Deliver exclusive reporting and scoops that reflect USA TODAY's commitment to original journalism.
• Collaborate across the USA TODAY Network to elevate national political coverage.
• Utilize digital tools and platforms (live blogs, explainers, SEO, social media) to maximize reach and engagement.
• Apply audience metrics to guide story selection and presentation. The correspondent will know our audience and will be dedicated to our mission of accountability journalism.
• Contribute to multimedia storytelling across formats including video, newsletters and social platforms.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in journalism or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 4 years newsroom experience, preferably in national or international reporting.
• Demonstrated ability to file quickly and accurately under deadline pressure.
• Strong news judgment and understanding of USA TODAY's audience.
• Proficiency in digital storytelling tools and SEO best practices.
• Experience with live coverage, listicles, and explanatory journalism.
• Commitment to ethical reporting and sourcing standards.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote or hybrid team environment.
• Candidates should have facility with AI and automation and experience in using it to enhance their journalism.

• Finds distinctive and interesting angles in national security and global affairs and writes with flair for an audience that spans the country.
• Dislikes following the pack and knows how to find and develop the nuggets that will draw attention to a national issue.
• Ability to juggle multiple assignments at various stages of development.
• A storytelling style that is both informative and engaging.
• Passion for shoe-leather reporting and clean, fast turns.

1. Your resume - one to two pages.
2. A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
3. 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.