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Community Reporter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

MediaNews Group, Inc.

Reporter

Vacaville, CA

$16.90 - $18.50/hr

If you truly believe local journalism is the heartbeat of a community, you'll fit right in here. The Vacaville Reporter is looking for an General Assignment Staff Reporter to tell the real ...

MediaNews Group, Inc.

Reporter

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.50/hr

If you truly believe local journalism is the heartbeat of a community, you'll fit right in here. The Vacaville Reporter is looking for an General Assignment Staff Reporter to tell the real ...

MediaNews Group, Inc.

Reporter

San Diego, CA · On-site

$29.81 - $31.73/hr

Report on San Diego communities - the issues that matter most to them, the people from there doing ... as with investigative reporters, photographers and graphic artists What you will bring:

MediaNews Group, Inc.

Reporter

San Diego, CA

$29.81 - $31.73/hr

Report on San Diego communities - the issues that matter most to them, the people from there doing ... as with investigative reporters, photographers and graphic artists What you will bring:

Hearst Newspapers

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

The reporter will be expected to build sources in the homeless community and spend time on the streets. They will be asked to tell the stories of unhoused residents and share the perspectives of ...

Hearst Newspapers

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

The reporter will be expected to build sources in the homeless community and spend time on the streets. They will be asked to tell the stories of unhoused residents and share the perspectives of ...

Hearst

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

The reporter will be expected to build sources in the homeless community and spend time on the streets. They will be asked to tell the stories of unhoused residents and share the perspectives of ...

Hearst

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

The reporter will be expected to build sources in the homeless community and spend time on the streets. They will be asked to tell the stories of unhoused residents and share the perspectives of ...

Hearst

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

The reporter will be expected to build sources in the homeless community and spend time on the streets. They will be asked to tell the stories of unhoused residents and share the perspectives of ...

Hearst Newspapers

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

The reporter will be expected to build sources in the homeless community and spend time on the streets. They will be asked to tell the stories of unhoused residents and share the perspectives of ...

Hearst

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

The reporter will be expected to build sources in the homeless community and spend time on the streets. They will be asked to tell the stories of unhoused residents and share the perspectives of ...

Hearst

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

The reporter will be expected to build sources in the homeless community and spend time on the streets. They will be asked to tell the stories of unhoused residents and share the perspectives of ...

Hearst Newspapers

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

The reporter will be expected to build sources in the homeless community and spend time on the streets. They will be asked to tell the stories of unhoused residents and share the perspectives of ...

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Community Reporter information

What does a community reporter do?

A Community Reporter is a journalist who focuses on covering news and events within a specific local area or community. Their work involves gathering information, interviewing residents, attending local meetings, and reporting on issues that directly affect the community. They aim to highlight stories that might be overlooked by larger media outlets and provide a voice for local residents. Community Reporters often play a key role in building trust and fostering communication between the media and the public.

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

To thrive as a Community Reporter, you need strong writing, research, and interviewing skills, often supported by a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with digital content management systems, social media platforms, and multimedia tools like audio recorders or cameras is typically required. Curiosity, cultural sensitivity, and effective communication help build trust and gather authentic stories within diverse communities. These skills and qualities are vital for delivering accurate, engaging news coverage that resonates with local audiences and upholds journalistic integrity.

How does a community reporter typically build relationships with local sources and community members?

Community Reporters often spend significant time attending local events, engaging with residents, and maintaining an active presence in neighborhoods to build trust and rapport. They develop relationships by listening to community concerns, connecting with local leaders, and being accessible both online and offline. This approach helps them gather authentic stories, understand diverse perspectives, and ensure their reporting is relevant and impactful to the community they serve.

What is the difference between Community Reporter vs Local Journalist?

AspectCommunity ReporterLocal Journalist
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; journalism or communications degree preferredOften requires a degree in journalism, communications, or related field
Work EnvironmentCommunity-focused settings, local events, neighborhood storiesNewsrooms, media outlets, covering broader local issues
Employer & IndustryLocal newspapers, community radio, online community platformsLocal newspapers, TV stations, online news outlets
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing roles focused on community-level reportingPeople seeking information on professional journalism careers

Community Reporters focus on hyper-local stories within communities, often working for smaller outlets or online platforms. Local Journalists may cover broader issues for established media organizations. Both roles require strong reporting skills, but Community Reporters tend to work more directly within neighborhoods, while Local Journalists operate in larger news environments.

Do community reporters make good money?

Community reporters' salaries vary depending on location, experience, and the size of the media organization. Typically, they earn hourly wages or salaries that range from entry-level pay to more experienced roles, with some earning additional income through freelance work or bonuses. Compensation can also be influenced by skills in reporting, writing, and multimedia tools.

What are popular job titles related to Community Reporter jobs in California?

For Community Reporter jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Community Reporter jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Community Reporter jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Community Reporter jobs?

Cities in California with the most Community Reporter job openings:

Community Reporter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Reporter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Reporter

Vacaville, CA

MediaNews Group, Inc.
Print Media Publishing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about MediaNews Group, Inc.external

$16.90 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Summary:

If you truly believe local journalism is the heartbeat of a community, you'll fit right in here. The Vacaville Reporter is looking for an General Assignment Staff Reporter to tell the real, unfiltered stories of Vacaville and Solano County.

You're not going to be chained to an office desk. This role is built for a seasoned, open-minded journalist who wants to be out on the pavement. Sitting front-row at City Council meetings, getting to know the locals, and uncovering what makes this area tick. If you bring solid newsroom experience, strong reporting ethics, and a genuine curiosity for the people behind the headlines, we'd love to have you on our team.

What you will do:

  • Report at least two bylined stories daily

  • Work collaboratively with a small, dedicated newsroom team

  • Meet tight deadlines and consistently deliver news on time

  • Write clear, accurate, and engaging stories that adhere to editorial standards

  • Conduct thorough research and verify facts across multiple sources

  • Perform interviews in person, over the phone, and via email

  • Build strong community connections to identify key local issues and stories

  • Attend public meetings and events to stay ahead of local developments

  • Adapt quickly to new digital tools, skills, and reporting platforms

What you will bring:

  • Journalism experience with a strong command of AP style, spelling, and grammar

  • Proven ability to quickly gather and report accurate information across a variety of topics

  • Proficiency with essential reporting technology, including PC laptops, digital cameras, and recording equipment

  • Strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to community journalism

Benefits and Compensation:

The hourly wage is $16.90- $18.50 + cell phone stipend. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to geographic location, education, work experience, time in role, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, the Company offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, 401k, as well as paid time off and select paid holidays (all benefits are based on eligibility). Please click the following link for more detailed information: www.mymedianewsgroup.com

Who we are:

The Vacaville Reporter, a subsidiary of MediaNews Group, is your source for local news in Vacaville and the surrounding Solano County communities. We deliver daily coverage of the events, issues, and stories that matter most to residents of Vacaville, Fairfield, Dixon, and beyond.

"4x Built In Best Places to Work Winner - 2023-2026"

EEO Statement:

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

How To Apply:

  • Please submit an online application along with your resume for this position here.

Closing Date:

  • Continuous recruitment until the position is filled

Conditions of Employment:

  • A full pre-employment background check and MVR will be conducted as part of the selection process. Must be willing to submit and pass the necessary required checks

  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and have reliable transportation

  • Travel - This position entails occasional driving for work assignments, in-person training sessions and/or meetings. The employee will be responsible for transporting themselves between different sites as needed

  • Must be available for shift work. May be required to work various hours for coverage outside of normal business hours

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