Deputy Editor, General Assignment Desk

Application Instructions

Please list all professional experience and explain any gaps in employment history. All of your application materials, which may include PDF files of work samples and/or links to audio, video, photography or graphics, must be uploaded to the field labeled Resume/Cover Letter/Work Samples to be considered for the position.

Job Description

The Washington Post is looking for a skilled editor to join its General Assignment desk. This deputy editor will be responsible for assigning and editing breaking coverage, leading live-update files and writing news alerts. This journalist should also be comfortable editing features, profiles and explainers and have demonstrated experience elevating copy and strengthening story framing and structure. This role will require night and weekend shifts.

The GA team, which comprises nearly 20 journalists, has the dual mission of swiftly pursuing developing news stories and producing artfully written curiosity pieces that drive audience engagement. We want a collaborative editor who is willing to work with desks across the newsroom to deliver the most essential, in-the-moment, compelling news coverage. We also want someone who can spot offbeat stories that will appeal to a wide range of readers and has the skills to shape and elevate storytelling. They should have strong news judgement, exceptional organizational skills and a diplomatic communication style.

Responsibilities:

• Partner with the General Assignment editors to drive daily coverage. Help set coverage priorities across the staff, seek excellence in story selection and framing, and elevate copy.

• Produce urgent, clear and accurate coverage by jumping on breaking news, directing live coverage and collaborating with teams across the newsroom.

• Apply critical thinking and attention to detail to editing while balancing speed and accuracy.

• Write compelling headlines and breaking news alerts.

• Foster a supportive, empathetic work culture that furthers staff development and sets clear expectations for achievement.

Preferred qualifications:

• At least five years of professional journalism experience.

• A track record of editing breaking news coverage for a major publication.

• Experience working with reporters on story selection, framing and elevation.

• An eagerness to experiment.

• Supervisory experience and fluency in other languages would be plusses.

This position is based in our Washington, D.C., newsroom.

Interested applicants should submit a résumé and a cover letter outlining their vision for the role to our jobs portal. All application materials can be uploaded to the same field. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, but those received by April 21 will be prioritized. Cover letters should be addressed to General Assignment Editors Keith McMillan and Gina Harkins and Managing Editor Matea Gold.

Wherever you are in your life or career, The Washington Post offers comprehensive and inclusive benefits for every step of your journey:

• Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage

• Company-paid pension and 401(k) match

• Three weeks of vacation and up to three weeks of paid sick leave

• Nine paid holidays and two personal days

• 20 weeks paid parental leave for any new parent

• Robust mental health resources

• Backup care and caregiver concierge services

• Gender affirming services

• Pet insurance

• Free Post digital subscription

• Leadership and career development programs

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

The Post strives to provide its readers with high-quality, trustworthy news and information while constantly innovating. That mission is best served by a diverse, multi-generational workforce with varied life experiences and perspectives. All cultures and backgrounds are welcomed.

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