1

Climate Journalism Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Account Executive

Arlington, VA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

... clean energy and climate technology. We represent the best and the brightest of the industry ... Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field Why Join Us:

... Journalism.The person must have a strong ability to tell the story. ABILITIES AND COMPETENCIES ... climate-controlled setting. It is well lighted, and the noise level is moderate. Working ...

Climate Journalism information

See Virginia salary details

$23.3K

$50.8K

$64.4K

How much do climate journalism jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for climate journalism in Virginia is $50,775.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,100.00 and $58,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed for climate journalism?

To thrive in Climate Journalism, you need strong research, investigative reporting, and science communication skills, often supported by a degree in journalism, environmental studies, or a related field. Familiarity with digital publishing tools, multimedia storytelling platforms, and data visualization software is highly beneficial. Outstanding interpersonal skills, curiosity, adaptability, and the ability to explain complex scientific issues in accessible terms set top candidates apart. These competencies are crucial for producing accurate, compelling stories that inform the public and drive meaningful discussion on climate issues.

What is climate journalism?

A Climate Journalism job involves reporting on climate change, environmental policies, and sustainability issues. Journalists in this field research scientific data, interview experts, and investigate the impact of climate-related events on communities and ecosystems. Their work helps inform the public about urgent environmental challenges and potential solutions. Climate journalists may write for newspapers, magazines, digital media, or work in broadcast journalism.

What are common challenges faced by climate journalists?

Climate journalists often encounter the challenge of translating complex scientific data into clear, engaging stories for a broad audience. They may need to verify facts from diverse sources, coordinate with scientific experts, and often work under tight deadlines to cover fast-evolving climate developments. Navigating the balance between urgency and accuracy, as well as addressing misconceptions or misinformation, is a routine part of the job. Additionally, climate journalists frequently collaborate with editors, photographers, and multimedia producers to deliver impactful reporting. Staying updated on both climate science and journalism best practices also requires ongoing professional development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Climate Journalism jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Climate Journalism jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Climate Journalism jobs in Virginia? For Climate Journalism jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Climate Journalism jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Climate Journalism jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Climate Journalism job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,775 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

The Donald W. Reynolds Chair in Business Journalism

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA • On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Washington and Lee University rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
Washington and Lee University's Department of Journalism and Mass Communications seeks an experienced journalist of national reputation to hold The Donald W. Reynolds Chair in Business Journalism, beginning in July 2027. The Reynolds Chair runs a signature program, the highly successful business journalism sequence, launched in 2002 to give students specialized education in reporting with an emphasis on covering business. W&L's Department of Journalism and Mass Communications is the nation's only accredited journalism program in a highly competitive liberal arts university.
We seek a colleague who can adapt and grow the business journalism program to meet the challenges of new technology and a changing business climate.
The business journalism program combines two of Washington and Lee's historic strengths-its accredited journalism department and its Williams School of Commerce, Economics and Politics. Duties include teaching four courses each school year - including classes about reporting on financial news, local communities and the economy - along with sharing in teaching duties for the department's student-run news program, The Rockbridge Report.
See video and text stories from The Rockbridge Report here: https://rockbridgereport.academic.wlu.edu/
The Reynolds Chair also coordinates visits of high-profile professionals in business media to campus and oversees an internship program that provides students with experience at business media outlets.
The expected salary for this position is between $140,000 - $185,000. Offers are based on factors such as relevant education, experience, tenure status, internal equity, and market and organizational considerations.
The Chair is an endowed position at the rank of professor with tenure.
Washington and Lee University offers a generous and comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being of employees and their families, as well as substantial support for faculty development through research funding and a strong culture of mentorship. To learn more about working at W&L, employee benefits, and life in the Shenandoah Valley, visit https://www.wlu.edu/employment-opportunities.
Washington and Lee University promotes a dynamic and welcoming environment that allows students and employees of multiple backgrounds and perspectives to learn, work, and thrive together. Successful candidates will contribute to that environment and exhibit potential for excellence in teaching and for rigorous scholarship. We welcome applications from candidates that would contribute to the University's mission and strategic plan.
Qualifications
Candidates must have extensive business journalism experience and should have a graduate degree. Some experience in media management and teaching is also preferred.
Candidates also must have robust experience and accomplishments that support their hiring as a full professor with tenure.
Application Instructions
To be considered, applicants should submit the following materials through the Interfolio portal at https://apply.interfolio.com/189475:
  • CV
  • Cover letter addressing your professional and academic background and your interests in business journalism and teaching.
  • Names and contact information for three professional references.

Review of applications will begin on Oct. 1, 2026 and continue until the position is filled.
For further information, contact Professor Eric Deggans at edeggans@wlu.edu,120 Reid Hall, Department of Journalism and Mass Communications, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Virginia 24450.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Washington and Lee is an Equal Opportunity Employer seeking candidates committed to high standards of scholarship, performance, professionalism, and to a welcoming campus community. Job description requirements are representative, but not all-inclusive of the knowledge, skill, and abilities needed to successfully perform this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

What Washington and Lee University employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom