Senior China Correspondent

Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty is looking for a Senior China Correspondent based in Washington, D.C. This role focuses on high-impact reporting that shapes U.S. foreign policy toward China, delivering compelling journalism to international audiences.

The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience covering foreign affairs, a strong digital background, and fluency in English, with Mandarin proficiency being a plus. You will collaborate with video journalists to create multimedia stories and maintain key sources across policy circles.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of reporting experience covering foreign affairs, especially related to China.
• Deep understanding of U.S. foreign policy and Washington institutions.
• Ability to explain complex policy debates clearly to a global audience.

Responsibilities

• Cover the White House, State Department, Congress, and think tanks on China-related issues.
• Produce high-quality digital-first journalism for international audiences.
• Develop and maintain a strong network of Washington-based sources.

Skills

Reporting experience

Understanding of U.S. foreign policy

Digital journalism

Editorial judgment

Fluency in English

Mandarin Chinese (desirable)

Job description

Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty is seeking an accomplished and motivated journalist to serve as Senior China Correspondent, based in Washington, D.C.

This is a high-impact reporting role at the center of U.S. foreign policy decision-making. The successful candidate will deliver compelling, fact-based, in-depth journalism on how U.S. foreign policy related to China is debated, shaped, and implemented — and what it means for audiences across RFE/RL’s broadcast regions.

What You’ll Do

• You will cover the White House, State Department, Congress, key policy institutions, and relevant think-tanks, producing breaking news, original enterprise reporting, and insightful analysis for international audiences on China-related issues.
• Comprehensively report on U.S. foreign policy related to China – its formulation, implementation and impact – as concerns the White House, State Department, Congress, and leading think tanks.
• Produce high-quality digital-first journalism, including news stories, analyses, explainers, interviews, and features.
• Work closely with a Senior Video Journalist to create visually compelling multimedia stories optimized for use across platforms and languages.
• Develop and maintain a strong network of Washington-based sources across government, diplomacy, and policy circles.
• You will track and analyze China’s expanding influence across key RFE/RL regions (Middle East, Europe, and Central Asia), working closely with correspondents on the ground to strengthen coverage and showcase local perspectives.

What We’re Looking For

• At least 10 years of reporting experience based in Washington, D.C., intensively covering foreign affairs for international audiences, especially as related to China.
• Demonstrated deep understanding of U.S. foreign policy and how Washington institutions operate.
• Proven ability to explain complex policy debates clearly and compellingly to a global audience.
• Strong digital journalism background, with experience publishing across web, social, and multimedia platforms.
• Experience collaborating closely with video journalists and multimedia teams.
• Excellent editorial judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to perform under deadline pressure.
• A track record of producing original, impactful journalism on competitive beats.
• First language fluency in English (written and spoken) is required.
• Ability to understand and converse in Mandarin Chinese is highly desirable.

Why RFE/RL

At RFE/RL, your reporting matters. Our journalism reaches audiences where access to free and independent news is limited or under threat. From Washington, you will help explain U.S. foreign policy to millions of people around the world — accurately, responsibly, and with impact.

To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter in English and at least 5 examples of your journalistic work that best demonstrate your skills relevant to this role.