Congress Editor

Position description

The Washington Post is seeking a rigorous, dynamic editor to lead our coverage of Congress, guiding journalism that breaks news, holds lawmakers to account and helps readers understand one of the most consequential political stories in the country.

We expect this editor to balance spot developments with deeper coverage and to help reporters conceive compelling stories that set The Post apart on a highly competitive beat. Candidates should have strong news judgment and a track record of editing breaking news in a deadline-driven environment as well as delivering high-impact stories that capture complex topics with authority, nuance, clarity and sensitivity. 

Responsibilities: 

• Drive coverage that sets the agenda with scoop-driven reporting that clearly explains policy and political implications and reveals how lawmakers wield power.

• Manage reporters. Help them set priorities on a busy beat, identify ambitious targets and hone their craft.

• Edit stories to the highest standards. Sharpen and elevate copy on deadline while also ensuring fairness, rigor, precision and excellence in story framing.

• Make sound decisions about sourcing, story construction and other editorial matters.

• Collaborate and work collegially with editors and reporters on a large politics staff, colleagues on the Business desk who cover economic policy, and other teams across the newsroom to provide the most comprehensive and visually dynamic coverage.

• Edit with the reader in mind. Publish stories when readers are interested and at appropriate lengths. Optimize stories for digital success and embrace creative storytelling to identify the most compelling formats.

Preferred qualifications:

• At least 10 years of professional journalism experience and a track record of editing and/or reporting with distinction. Experience with U.S. political news is essential.

• Experience covering major, long-running breaking news stories, pursuing accountability targets and developing creative ideas for text and other formats.

• Exceptional communication and organizational skills.

• A vision for coverage of Congress that has impact and distinction.

• Supervisory experience is a plus but not strictly required.

This position is based in our Washington newsroom.

Interested applicants should submit a resume and a cover letter outlining their vision for the role to our jobs portal. All application materials can be uploaded to the same field. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, but those received by May 8 will be prioritized. Cover letters should be addressed to Deputy Politics Editor Nick Baumann, Senior Politics Editor Dan Eggen, Deputy National Editor Amy Fiscus, National Editor Philip Rucker and Managing Editor Matea Gold. 

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.

Application instructions

Please be sure to indicate you saw this position on tendersglobal.net