Pentagon 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, unbiasednews 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 a talented journalist to cover the Department of Defense and military affairs as a reporter in Washington. This is a staff position covered by AP's agreement with the News Media Guild.

Responsibilities: Reporting to the national security news editor, you will consistently break news and produce distinct, deeply reported enterprise about the Pentagon and U.S. military. In a crowded media landscape, you'll aim to tell stories that stand out, drive the agenda in Washington and resonate across the U.S. and the world. You will be a strong source journalist and writer who also is comfortable working in multiple media formats reporting breaking news as well as beat-driven enterprise. You will have the ability and willingness to work at night and on weekends, as coverage demands, as AP is a 24/7 operation.

We're looking for someone who will:

• have a demonstrated history of successful beat reporting, with a record of compelling and exclusive work on deadline and the production of enterprise that is distinctive, illuminating and engaging.
• work among a team of journalists, reporters and editors to deliver spot news and enterprise coverage that breaks news, has impact and is exclusive to AP.
• have strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with the diverse team of journalists at the AP who operate in all formats: text, photo, video, audio, digital, social, interactive and graphics.
• have a great news sense, with the ability to communicate stories that people will want to share and discuss across platforms.
• pursue innovative coverage techniques while maintaining AP's standards for integrity and objectivity.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• Advanced-level professional competency in written and spoken English. Professional competency in a language besides English is a plus.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to juggle multiple stories and projects across formats.
• All applicants must be able to work in the U.S. or be able to gain permission to do so.

Preferred Qualifications: Previous experience covering the U.S. military and Defense Department is a plus. Applicants must be able to consistently break news and report enterprise that offers readers and viewers an illuminating look at how policies are made and implemented. The successful candidate must be able to work effectively with colleagues and peers in teams and should have at least five years of full-time experience at a daily newspaper, broadcast station, digital news outlet, or as a journalist at the AP.

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.

The annual salary for this position will be between $95,000 and $130,000 based 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

Benefits may vary based on the job, full-time or part-time schedule, location, and collectively bargained status.

Application Deadline: July 13, 2025 @ 11:59PM 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.