Washington Investigations Reporter (Newsperson)

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world's population sees AP journalism every day.

The Associated Press seeks an energetic journalist with a proven track record of breaking world-class investigative stories. The reporter will join a team committed to uncovering hidden stories around power and politics, working with other Investigative team members, Washington staff and the wider AP. This is a staff position covered by AP’s agreement with the News Media Guild.

Responsibilities: Reporting to the Washington investigations editor, you will seek out distinct, "Only on AP" journalism in all media formats. You will think creatively about how best to tell stories on mobile, digital and social media platforms, including how to integrate data used in investigations into a story’s ultimate presentation.

We're looking for someone who will:

• Initiate investigations focused on government and corporate accountability and/or national security matters.
• Know how to use public records laws and have a network of sources around the nation’s capital. You can tap into the city’s legion of lobbyists and lawyers who wield power behind the scenes.
• Have a great news sense, with a high metabolism and a hunger for scoops.
• Be able to turn around deep journalism in a couple of days while making progress on months-long projects.
• Pursue innovative and inclusive coverage techniques, including the use of artificial intelligence, while maintaining AP’s standards for integrity and objectivity.
• Be willing and able to work at night and on weekends, as coverage demands, as AP is a 24/7 operation.

Preferred Qualifications:

• The ideal candidate will have demonstrated excellence as an investigative reporter or editor, with a strong record of delivering exclusive and distinctive investigative reporting on both breaking news and long-term investigative projects.
• Prior experience as a beat reporter or investigative reporter in Washington is a plus.
• You must be able to work effectively as a member of a team, with a proven track record of working with colleagues on other desks from the outset of stories and projects, collaborating throughout the reporting and editing process to deliver compelling, distinctive, visually-rich journalism in all formats.
• Applicants must be able to explain complex stories in clear and compelling ways, and do so swiftly and accurately on tight deadlines.
• You should have strong organizational skills, with the ability to juggle multiple projects across formats and deliver success on complex, challenging story lines.
• The successful candidate will have at least five years of full-time experience as an investigative reporter or editor at a daily newspaper, broadcast station, online or digital news outlet, or an AP bureau or regional desk.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Authorization to work in the U.S. will be mandatory.
• Advanced-level professional competency in written and spoken English.
• Professional competency in a language besides English is a plus.

We will consider strong candidates who do not meet every listed qualification. You may use a cover letter to describe the unique qualifications you would bring to this role.

This position is covered by The Associated Press’ contract with the News Media Guild, which provides for an annual salary for Class A staff of between $53,477 and $85,214 based on location and years of professional experience. The anticipated salary range for this position is $53,477 - $140,000, contingent on experience and other job-related factors. Compensation is contingent on a job candidate’s skills, qualifications and market location. Employees are eligible to participate, according to the terms of the official plan documents, in a 401(k) plan and employer-sponsored health insurance plan, and are eligible for paid time off and holidays in accordance with AP policy.

The Associated Press offers comprehensive benefits which include:

• Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage
• Retirement benefits
• Company paid life insurance
• Paid vacation and sick days
• Paid parental leave for any new parent
• Mental health resources

Application deadline is August 31 at 11:59 p.m. ET.

AP seeks to build an inclusive organization grounded in respect for differences. We support all aspects of diversity and provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a veteran, or other characteristic protected by law.