Washington D.C. Reporter

The Washington, D.C.-based Sr. Reporter will cover federal regulatory agency news and policy, with a focus on health, food, environment, and agriculture. The Washington, D.C.-based Sr. Reporter works directly with the Editor-in-Chief and editorial staff to develop story ideas and write trending and in-depth news and feature stories. The Sr. Reporter is responsible for pitching story ideas to the editors and may be asked to cover general assignments in addition to agency/policy news.

Responsibilities:

Develop and maintain journalistic sources within key federal agencies, including:
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Produce comprehensive news, investigative and feature articles covering:
Agricultural policy and legislation
Food safety / nutrition regulations and initiatives
Public health policy, including pharma industry and chemical industry regulations affecting food and the environment
Regulatory changes affecting farming and food production
Attend and report on congressional hearings, press conferences, and policy briefings related to food/agriculture and health
Conduct interviews with policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, and advocacy groups
Develop data-driven stories that explain complex policy implications for general audience
Research and write breaking news and in-depth news stories based on leads or as assigned
Work with editors to develop newsworthy stories tailored to The Defender’s audience
Rework pieces as requested by editors and update pieces as needed for ongoing or developing stories
Meet all deadlines as requested by editors
Assist in maintaining The Defender’s experts database by adding experts on specific topics who can be interviewed for future stories
Work collaboratively with Defender team and others to produce quality work under tight deadlines
Confirm details with a source(s) with detailed accuracy and a developed timeline (when needed) related to content for articles,
May be asked to assist other writers in identifying sources to quote for stories and cultivate sources who can provide news tips
May be asked to review, edit and refine other writers’ work
May be asked to train more new staff members as needed
Attend CHD/Defender meetings and events as required
Respond to calls, emails and text communications in a timely manner
All other duties as assigned

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, or public policy
Minimum 3-5 years of experience in political or policy reporting
Deep understanding of Washington DC's policy ecosystem
Proven track record of breaking significant policy stories
Exceptional research and investigative skills
Familiarity with government document research
Strong working knowledge of agricultural, environmental and health policy landscapes
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to translate complex policy information into clear, engaging narratives
Fluency in data journalism and statistical analysis
Knowledge and alignment with CHD’s mission and values
An exceptional understanding of online news + inverted pyramid style of reporting
Strong interviewing skills
Excellent attention to detail
Ability to differentiate between fact and opinion
Ability to do research, verify facts/sources, and cite sources
Ability to work independently and collaboratively under deadline pressure
Strong knowledge of AP Stylebook
Proficient in standard business software including but not limited to MS Office or similar, email , and Experience using G Suite, preferred
Ability to multitask and prioritize
Understanding of true journalistic standards
Ability to work effectively remotely
Environmental and Physical Requirements:

Essential physical and environmental requirements of this position include but are not limited to the ability to: speak, hear, see, write, type, use a computer, use a phone, attend online meetings, sit for prolonged periods of time, work on a set or varied schedule, maintain a safe home office. Ability to travel if needed to cover a story. In addition, must be comfortable working in a fast paced environment, under tight deadlines, and shifting priorities.

*Actual salary offered is dependent on various factors including but not limited to: location, performance, combination of job-related knowledge, qualifications, skills, education, training and experience.

Pay Range: $90,000 - $110,000 per year