Senior Reporter, Pentagon and World Affairs

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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.
Candidates should have facility with AI and automation and experience in using it to enhance their 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

We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don't limit your upload to a resume; show us what you've done. To do so, put together a single document file 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've produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role.

It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.

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