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Citizen Journalism Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We believe independent journalism is essential to a healthy democracy and that access to objective, fact-based news is a right for every citizen. We serve the public interest by creating diverse ...

Assistant News Editor

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$77K - $85K/yr

We believe independent journalism is essential to a healthy democracy and that access to objective, fact-based news is a right for every citizen. We serve the public interest by creating diverse ...

Assistant News Editor

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$77K - $85K/yr

We believe independent journalism is essential to a healthy democracy and that access to objective, fact-based news is a right for every citizen. We serve the public interest by creating diverse ...

We believe independent journalism is essential to a healthy democracy and that access to objective, fact-based news is a right for every citizen. We serve the public interest by creating diverse ...

Iowa City Prep Sports Reporter

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$24 - $32.50/hr

We deliver high-quality, trusted content with a commitment to balanced, unbiased journalism, where ... To connect with us, visit www.usatodayco.com The Iowa City Press-Citizen , part of the USA TODAY ...

The Asheville Citizen Times is seeking a reporter to cover city government, including but not ... This journalist must bring the skills, experience and empathy to make a difference in our growing ...

... citizen and have a TS Clearance in hand*** EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Bachelor's degree, or equivalent in English, Journalism, or a similar major One or more years of technical or business writing ...

Iowa City Prep Sports Reporter

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$24 - $32.50/hr

The Iowa City Press-Citizen , part of the USA TODAY NETWORK , seeks a reporter energized by the ... Understanding the collaborative nature of journalism and willing and eager to work with others to ...

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Citizen Journalism information

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$35

$70

How much do citizen journalism jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for citizen journalism in the United States is $35.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $46.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid journalism job?

In journalism, high-paying roles include senior editors, news directors, and media executives, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and advanced knowledge of media operations and industry standards.

How can I become a citizen journalist?

Citizen journalism involves reporting news and sharing information independently, often through social media, blogs, or online platforms. To become a citizen journalist, develop strong writing and reporting skills, learn to use digital tools like smartphones and editing software, and stay informed about current events and ethical reporting practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Citizen Journalist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Citizen Journalist, you need strong research abilities, clear writing skills, and a solid understanding of journalism ethics, though formal qualifications are not always required. Familiarity with social media platforms, smartphone cameras, and basic photo or video editing tools is typically used to gather and share news quickly. Curiosity, integrity, and the ability to engage with diverse communities are soft skills that set standout citizen journalists apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurately reporting events, building trust, and ensuring responsible, impactful storytelling.

What is a citizen journalist?

A citizen journalist is an individual who independently reports news and shares information, often using digital tools like smartphones and social media platforms. They play a role in covering events outside traditional media channels and may require skills in reporting, photography, or video editing.

What are some common challenges faced by citizen journalists when gathering and verifying information?

Citizen journalists often encounter challenges such as limited access to official sources, potential safety risks in the field, and the need to verify information without the resources of established news organizations. Ensuring accuracy and credibility can be difficult, so it's important to cross-check facts, cite reliable sources, and use digital tools to validate images and reports. Collaborating with other journalists or online communities can also help improve the reliability of the information you share.

Is citizen journalism legal?

Citizen journalism involves individuals reporting news and sharing information, which is generally legal as long as it does not violate laws such as defamation, privacy, or copyright. Journalists and content creators should be aware of legal standards and ethical guidelines to avoid potential legal issues while performing this role.

What is the difference between Citizen Journalism vs Freelance Journalism?

AspectCitizen JournalismFreelance Journalism
CredentialsTypically none; relies on personal experience and basic tech skillsOften requires journalism training or experience
Work EnvironmentInformal, community-based, often onlineFormal, varies from online to print media outlets
Employer/Industry UsageIndependent, citizen-led platforms or social mediaMedia organizations, magazines, newspapers
Content FocusLocal, personal, or grassroots storiesBroader, professional reporting on various topics

Citizen journalism involves individuals sharing news and stories without formal training, often through social media or community platforms. Freelance journalism is performed by trained or experienced journalists working independently for various media outlets. While both roles involve reporting, citizen journalism is more informal and community-driven, whereas freelance journalism is more professional and often commissioned by established media organizations.

What is citizen journalism?

Citizen journalism refers to the process by which ordinary people, rather than professional journalists, collect, report, analyze, and share news and information. This form of journalism often uses digital platforms, such as social media, blogs, and websites, to disseminate information quickly and widely. Citizen journalists play a significant role in covering events that may be underreported by mainstream media, offering unique perspectives from those directly affected. While citizen journalism increases the diversity of voices in news reporting, it also raises questions about accuracy, verification, and ethical standards.
More about Citizen Journalism jobs
What cities are hiring for Citizen Journalism jobs? Cities with the most Citizen Journalism job openings:
What states have the most Citizen Journalism jobs? States with the most job openings for Citizen Journalism jobs include:
Infographic showing various Citizen Journalism job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,675 per year, or $35.4 per hour.

Managing Editor, News

Chicago Public Media

Chicago, IL

$141K - $177K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 hours ago


Job description

About Chicago Public Media

Chicago Public Media is one of the nation's largest local nonprofit news organizations. Home to WBEZ 91.5FM, the Chicago Sun-Times, and Vocalo. Chicago Public Media reaches more than 3.3 million people weekly across broadcast, print, and digital platforms. As a mission-driven organization, we aspire to be the most trusted news source Chicagoans turn to for understanding the people, events, and ideas shaping our community.

Chicago Public Media is a 100% community-funded newsroom powered by nearly 97,000 members whose support makes our journalism possible. This sustained community investment helped drive nationally recognized work in 2025, including 29 awards from esteemed organizations, including the Public Media Journalists Association, the Edward R. Murrow Awards, and the National Association of Black Journalists.

We believe independent journalism is essential to a healthy democracy and that access to objective, fact-based news is a right for every citizen. We serve the public interest by creating diverse content that informs and enriches our community, supported by a dedicated staff of approximately 250 professionals.

For more information, please see the Chicago Public Media Annual Report.

Position Summary

Chicago Public Media is seeking a Managing Editor to lead our Chicago news coverage and help shape the future of regional nonprofit journalism. As a senior leader, you will partner closely with the Editor-in-Chief to execute the editorial vision for the nation's largest local nonprofit newsroom, encompassing both the Chicago Sun-Times and WBEZ.

The Managing Editor ensures the strategic operation of our combined digital, print, and audio newsrooms. We are looking for a strategic thinker and pragmatic operator who can oversee daily editorial planning, coordinate workflows across platforms, and translate high-level goals into impactful journalism.

If you are a collaborative leader dedicated to journalistic excellence and innovation, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities

  • Partner with the EIC to implement editorial strategy and standards.
  • Oversee daily newsroom operations, including coverage planning and cross-desk coordination.
  • Foster collaboration between newspaper, radio, digital, and visual teams.
  • Lead newsroom culture and professional development with a focus on inclusion and excellence.
  • Manage logistics, project timelines, and newsroom-wide initiatives such as special investigations and election coverage.

Minimum Qualifications

  • 8–10 years of newsroom experience, including significant leadership and management roles.
  • Strong editorial judgment and experience in both daily and enterprise journalism.
  • Deep understanding of local news and public media values; Chicago-area familiarity is preferred.
  • Proven ability to manage complex projects and lead through influence.
  • Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in both storytelling and leadership.

Education

Bachelor's degree in journalism, business or a related field required; Master's degree is preferred.

Compensation

The expected pay range for this position is $141,710 - $177,140 per ANNUM.

Chicago Public Media provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the organization reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographical location, and external market pay for comparable jobs.

Working at Chicago Public Media

At Chicago Public Media, we care deeply about our employees as we know attracting, developing, and growing talent is key to our success and enhancing our impact.

Our culture is one where collaboration, diversity of ideas, and innovation are encouraged. We value colleagues who will enhance our culture by bringing new ideas, divergent experiences, and talents to our dynamic workplace.

At Chicago Public Media we believe dedication to a great workplace includes supporting our employees and their families. As a result, we provide a broad and generous benefits package for employees at hire and in the years to come.

Our benefits include a competitive salary and benefits package which includes medical, dental, vision, vacation, holidays, life insurance, disability coverage, retirement savings, and a commuter benefits plan.
Chicago Public Media is an Equal Opportunity Employer and we actively seek and welcome people from all backgrounds, orientations, and life experiences to join our team.

The essential functions described above are not all-inclusive and are not intended to create any contractual or other legal commitment. Chicago Public Media may change the content or format of this job at any time in its sole and exclusive discretion without notice.