Policy Staff Writer

Accountabilities

• • Research and produce clear, concise, neutral content explaining complex policy concepts, debates, court cases, laws, executive orders, reform proposals, and related developments.
  • Build subject-matter expertise across assigned policy areas and continuously expand knowledge through news, scholarly research, legislation, and other authoritative sources.
  • Identify, research, and present arguments for and against proposed policy changes while maintaining balanced and objective coverage.
  • Develop and maintain content related to federal and state policy developments, including tracking legislation and court decisions across all 50 states.
  • Monitor breaking news and emerging policy developments, using sound editorial judgment to determine which stories require coverage or updates.
  • Conduct large-scale research projects and compile information using spreadsheets, databases, templates, and other research tools.
  • Review scholarly work efficiently, identify relevant insights or gaps in existing coverage, and incorporate valuable findings into published content.
  • Edit and proofread content consistently, applying established editorial standards and incorporating feedback from colleagues and stakeholders.
  • Develop compelling headlines and identify the strongest or most relevant aspects of stories to improve reader engagement.
  • Host and lead webinars, prepare presentations, and contribute to educational outreach initiatives such as Learning Journeys and Learning Expeditions.
  • Draft and contribute to recurring newsletters and topical programming related to breaking policy developments.
  • Interact professionally with donors, customers, media representatives, external partners, and internal stakeholders when required.
  • Participate in team learning activities, including recurring book clubs, and attend relevant events or conferences as needed.
  • Continuously identify opportunities to improve research methods, content quality, workflows, and the overall reader experience.
  • Use AI tools and emerging technologies where appropriate to increase productivity, research effectiveness, and content quality.

  Requirements

  • Demonstrated interest in and commitment to providing accurate, neutral, and accessible information about U.S. politics and public policy.
  • Strong knowledge of the U.S. political system, with professional experience covering federal or state lawmaking considered an advantage.
  • Familiarity with the administrative state, federal rulemaking processes, and/or public assistance programs such as SNAP or Medicaid is preferred.
  • Excellent research, writing, editing, and proofreading skills, with the ability to translate complex information into accessible content for general audiences.
  • Strong ability to identify reliable sources, conduct efficient research, synthesize information, and recognize meaningful trends across multiple policy areas.
  • Excellent judgment when evaluating news and policy developments, particularly when working with breaking or rapidly changing information.
  • Ability to understand and analyze legislation, court decisions, scholarly research, and other complex policy materials.
  • Strong attention to detail and the ability to work accurately with complex procedures, checklists, spreadsheets, databases, and templates.
  • Ability to learn and consistently apply detailed editorial standards, style guidelines, and frameworks for evaluating potential bias.
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with colleagues across departments and external stakeholders.
  • Comfortable seeking, receiving, and applying constructive feedback as part of a continuous improvement mindset.
  • Self-awareness, intellectual curiosity, flexibility, and a proactive approach to solving problems and improving processes.
  • Interest in or experience using AI tools to improve productivity and research or content workflows.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining high standards of accuracy and quality.
  • Familiarity with Google Workspace, Slack, and Asana is helpful.
  • Ability to work independently and effectively in a fully remote environment.
  • A computer with reliable internet access is required.
  • Applicants should be authorized to work in the United States and able to satisfy applicable employment verification requirements.

  Benefits

  • Starting salary of $42,500–$44,000 per year.
  • Performance-based bonus opportunities.
  • $8,000 annual benefits stipend, which can be used toward health, vision, dental, retirement, and other benefits.
  • Flexible work environment with the ability to work fully remotely from a home location.
  • Flexible scheduling through the organization’s BP Flex approach.
  • Unlimited vacation policy.
  • Opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and skills growth.
  • Collaborative, mission-driven workplace focused on innovation, intellectual curiosity, humility, and continuous improvement.
  • Opportunities to participate in educational initiatives, webinars, research projects, and policy-focused events.