Senior Reporter, Pentagon and World Affairs

Senior Reporter, Pentagon and World Affairs Washington, DC, USA 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. Requirements 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. Experience using AI and automation to enhance journalism. Desired Attributes 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. Application Instructions When applying, please provide a single document (PDF) that includes the following in this order: Your resume – one to two pages. A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job. Links to 3–6 online samples of your work. Show us what you have produced or contributed that best reflects what you can do in this role. USA TODAY Co., Inc. is a proud equal‑opportunity employer committed to building and maintaining a diverse workforce. We will consider all qualified applicants for employment and do not discriminate in connection with employment decisions on the basis of an applicant or employee’s race, color, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, citizenship status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, marital status, personal appearance (including height and weight), sexual orientation, family responsibilities, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy status (including childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), education, genetic characteristics or information, political affiliation, military or veteran status or other classifications protected by applicable federal, state and local laws. Applicants who require a reasonable accommodation should contact View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr USA-Today-Co.