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Associate Reporter Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Associate Reporter information

See Portland, OR salary details

$28.6K

$149.8K

$329.3K

How much do associate reporter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate reporter in Portland, OR is $149,753.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $225,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate reporter do?

An Associate Reporter is an entry-level journalist responsible for researching, investigating, and writing news stories under the guidance of more senior reporters and editors. They may cover a variety of topics, conduct interviews, attend events, and gather information from multiple sources to create accurate and engaging articles. Associate Reporters often help with fact-checking, editing, and assisting with the production of multimedia content. This role is ideal for those starting out in journalism, offering opportunities to develop writing skills and gain experience in the newsroom environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate reporter?

To thrive as an Associate Reporter, you need strong writing, research, and interviewing skills, typically supported by a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with content management systems, digital publishing tools, and media monitoring software is often required. Attention to detail, curiosity, and the ability to work under tight deadlines are crucial soft skills for success. These skills ensure accurate, engaging reporting and the ability to deliver timely news stories in a fast-paced media environment.

What are some common challenges faced by associate reporters when covering breaking news stories?

Associate Reporters often encounter tight deadlines, rapidly changing information, and the need to verify facts quickly when covering breaking news. Balancing speed with accuracy is a key challenge, as is ensuring clear communication with editors and sources. Additionally, Associate Reporters must adapt to working in dynamic environments and may be required to pivot their focus as new developments arise, all while maintaining journalistic integrity.

What is the difference between Associate Reporter vs Staff Reporter?

AspectAssociate ReporterStaff Reporter
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or related fieldBachelor's degree; some roles prefer experience or internships
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, often in newsrooms or media outletsFull-time, reporting on various beats or topics
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in media companies, news agenciesStandard role in journalism and media organizations
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched by those starting in journalism or exploring entry-level rolesCompared for experience level and career progression

The main difference between an Associate Reporter and a Staff Reporter lies in experience and responsibility. Associate Reporters are typically entry-level positions requiring relevant education, while Staff Reporters usually have more experience and handle more complex reporting tasks. Both roles are common in media organizations and serve as foundational steps in a journalism career.

Do associate reporters make good money?

Associate reporters typically earn entry-level salaries that vary by location and employer, with median pay around $30,000 to $45,000 annually. Compensation can increase with experience, skills, and the size of the media organization, and some positions may include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What are the most commonly searched types of Reporter jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Reporter jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Reporter jobs in Portland, OR?

For Associate Reporter jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Reporter jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Reporter jobs in Portland, OR are:

$20.50 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

168th of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview

This position will support an NIH grant focusing on genetic screens to identify the mechanisms by which Leishmania parasites become resistant to antiparasitic drugs. The position will involve working with Leishmania parasites, generation of a variety of leishmanial expression vectors using cutting-edge recombinant DNA techniques, parasite transfection, FACS analysis, reporter gene assays, fluorescence microscopy, and western blot, southern blot and PCR (polymerase chain reaction) analyses. The position also requires an active role in general laboratory maintenance. 

Function/Duties of Position
  • Recombinant DNA and general molecular biology techniques.
  • Parasite cell culture and transfections into parasites.
  • Lab maintenance, e.g. ordering of supplies, etc.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's in relevant field; OR

  • Associate's AND 3 years of relevant experience; OR

  • 4 years of relevant experience; OR

  • Equivalent combination of training and experience.

  • Proven track record for independent experimental design and interpretation of results.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills are essential.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, biological sciences, genetics, chemistry, chemistry, or parasitology.
  • 1 to 2 years of demonstrated experience independently working with microorganisms (non-model organisms preferred). 
  • Demonstrated experience with genetic screens, and demonstrated skills in basic molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA isolation, cloning, gel electrophoresis, PCR, western blot analysis), and microscopy.

Additional Details

Hours are flexible.  Hire is expected to work 40 hours per week, but some weekend and overtime work may be required, as needed for completion of specific tasks and experiments. Potential exposure to Leishmania parasites, which are human pathogens.

Benefits 

  • Healthcare for full-time employees covered 100% and 88% for dependents.
  • $50K of term life insurance provided at no cost to the employee.
  • Two separate above market pension plans to choose from.
  • Paid time off - 208 hours per year, prorated for part-time.
  • Extended illness bank - 64 hours per year, prorated for part-time.
  • 9 paid holidays per year.
  • Substantial Tri-Met and C-Tran discounts.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Childcare service discounts.
  • Tuition reimbursement.
  • Employee discounts to local and major businesses.
Why apply to OHSU?We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887