Position Title: Staff Writer 

Location: Remote, DC-based HQ 

Employment Type: Full-time, exempt, union. This position falls within the CWA/TNG Bargaining Unit in place between The American Prospect and Washington-Baltimore News Guild. 

Reports To: Executive Editor

About The American Prospect

The American Prospect is an influential magazine dedicated to rigorous journalism and progressive ideas. We are committed to providing in-depth analysis and thoughtful perspectives on political, economic, and social issues. Our mission is to inform and inspire our readers to engage in public discourse and action.

Position Overview

We're seeking a talented Staff Writer to join our editorial team. In this role, you'll produce original, impactful journalism that examines the intersection of policy, politics, and power in America. The ideal candidate will bring curiosity, analytical skills, and commitment to progressive values, along with the ability to translate complex topics into compelling narratives.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, report, and write feature stories, news pieces, and analysis for both print and online publications
• Develop and maintain a network of sources in relevant policy and political circles
• Pitch original story ideas that align with the organization’s  mission and editorial priorities
• Contribute to our daily news coverage as needed, including breaking news items
• Collaborate with editors to refine story angles and strengthen reporting
• Participate in editorial meetings and contribute to long-term content planning
• Represent the organization at relevant events and in media appearances when appropriate
• Engage with readers through social media and other platforms

Qualifications

• Minimum 2-3 years of journalism experience, preferably in policy or political reporting
• Demonstrated ability to produce clear, engaging, and accurate reporting
• Strong understanding of American politics, policy, and progressive priorities
• Excellent research and interviewing skills
• Ability to work independently while meeting deadlines
• Collaborative spirit and willingness to work with editors to strengthen stories
• Knowledge of journalistic ethics and best practices

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and experience via Submittable. Please include links/PDFs of your five best clips. The deadline for submitting your materials is April 22nd, 2025, at 11:59 pm ET.

The American Prospect is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, ancestry, marital status, union activity, AIDS/HIV status, on-the-job injuries, or any status otherwise protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

We are committed to diversity and building an inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds and ages and we encourage members of traditionally underrepresented communities to apply, including women, people of color, LGBTQ people, and people with disabilities.

Our benefits include health, dental, and vision benefits for our employees and their dependents, paid vacation starting at four weeks per year, an HSA/FSA program, and a 37.5-hour workweek.

This job description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role, but it is not exhaustive. Duties may change as per the needs of the organization.

Salary Range: $65,000-$85,000

2025 CUNY Newmark J-School Editorial Internship

Work with us remotely, or at our offices in Washington, D.C. 

The American Prospect is devoted to promoting informed discourse on public-policy matters from a progressive perspective through narrative interpretation of complex issues. We don’t just make magazines, we make a difference.

The Prospect hosts three classes of interns each year with flexible dates ranging from January to April; May to August; and September to December.
 

This specific position is supported by The Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY and is only open to Newmark students. The intern will work for 280 hours between June 2 and August 15, and receive a stipend of $4,200.  
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Editorial interns assist with research, fact-checking, social media, data entry and library services for both the print magazine and the daily website. Interns are encouraged to contribute editorially, writing book briefs and articles as assigned, and participating in generating story ideas, as well as pursuing their own projects under the guidance of Prospect staff. We encourage interns to fully integrate themselves into the Prospect’s editorial operations while taking full advantage of the public events only available in Washington, D.C.

Here's what recent interns have to say:

"I know it’s called an internship, but “apprenticeship” would also be apt. Each aspect of the work I did helped me grow as a journalist and writer, including reading several TAP pieces a week to do my part to maintain our social media presence. Fact-checking was particularly eye-opening because I was able to see how other reporters keep track of their notes, interviews, and how they piece together a story. Several people on staff made sure to meet with me and hear about my interests and offer their advice. In the end, I learned so much about pitching, revising, working on assignment, and about the industry overall. I know other internships are probably great, but this one was extraordinary." —Liz Rosenberg, CUNY Newmark Internship, Summer 2023

"The internship with The American Prospect helped me grow so much as a reporter and writer. Under the careful guidance of Prospect editors, I was able to pitch, report, and write stories almost immediately as an intern. Interns are treated as real members of the Prospect team, getting to sit in on editorial meetings and contribute to fact-checking the print edition of the magazine. All members of the Prospect staff were extremely available and eager to help me, whether offering advice on a story or looking out for career opportunities after the internship." —Elizabeth Meisenzahl, Summer 2023

"My summer with The American Prospect gave me the freedom to explore topics I am passionate about and wanted to cover. TAP also allowed me to write more creatively and expressively than other outlets I’ve worked at. The editors and staff writers at TAP are able to provide new perspectives and wonderful guidance when it comes to writing and researching new topics. I loved learning from the journalistic experiences of the staff and asking for advice on stories, job applications, and more. I highly recommend any internship opportunities at The American Prospect." —Emma Murphy, Summer 2023

"TAP’s internship is a marvelous opportunity for aspiring political journalists to gain a wealth of hands-on editorial experience in a friendly, small-staff environment. Whether you’ve never written a news story before or have dozens under your belt, there is a great deal to learn from the magazine’s incredibly knowledgeable and accomplished staff. Everyone is extremely approachable, including those at the top of the masthead. While interning there as a recent journalism graduate, I not only sharpened my skills as a writer and reporter, but acquired new skills in fact-checking and social media management. We were strongly encouraged to participate and share ideas in editorial meetings and had plenty of room in our daily schedules to work on our articles. I cannot recommend this internship more emphatically." —Imani Sumbi, Spring 2023

The deadline to apply for this Newmark J School position is Friday, April 18th, 2025 at 11:59 pm Eastern Time. 

Your TAP Internship application includes...

- Your résumé.

- Three writing samples. Consider clips or posts, academic papers and unpublished pieces. 

- Your cover letter. In your letter, please give your assessment of the current political moment; and your interest in The American Prospect's journalism OR how an internship with the Prospect would align/advance your personal/career goals.

Positions are remote, or in the our Washington, D.C., headquarters.

The American Prospect prioritizes attracting diverse talent and cultivating an inclusive environment that encourages collaboration and creativity. All qualified applicants will be considered, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetics, age, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other such characteristic.