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Crime Journalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

gannett

Politics/watchdog/crime Reporter

Saint Cloud, MN

$24.25 - $33/hr

Cloud Times , a USA Today Co. paper, is looking for a politics/watchdog/crime reporter with a ... Digital journalism will be a priority. We use data-driven journalism to write about complicated ...

gannett

Politics/watchdog/crime Reporter

Saint Cloud, MN

$24.25 - $33/hr

Cloud Times , a USA Today Co. paper, is looking for a politics/watchdog/crime reporter with a ... Digital journalism will be a priority. We use data-driven journalism to write about complicated ...

The Pennsylvania State University

... journalist, including reporting, editing, or leading data teams in a newsroom environment. Our ... The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as ...

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Crime Journalist information

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$30K

$61K

$131K

How much do crime journalist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for crime journalist in the United States is $60,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do criminal journalists do?

Crime journalists research, investigate, and report on criminal activities, law enforcement actions, and related legal issues. They gather information from sources such as police reports, court records, and interviews, often working under tight deadlines and using tools like digital recording devices and editing software.

What is the difference between Crime Journalist vs Crime Reporter?

AspectCrime JournalistCrime Reporter
CredentialsTypically a degree in journalism, communications, or related fieldSimilar educational background, often with experience in journalism
Work EnvironmentResearch, investigative work, writing, and editing for newspapers, magazines, or online outletsOn-the-scene reporting, attending crime scenes, interviews, and live coverage
Industry UsageUsed broadly for those who produce in-depth crime stories and analysisPrimarily for those reporting live or recent crime events

Both Crime Journalists and Crime Reporters require similar educational backgrounds and work within the journalism industry. Crime Journalists often focus on investigative and analytical stories, while Crime Reporters typically cover live or recent crime events on the scene. The key difference lies in their work environment and focus, with journalists emphasizing research and storytelling, and reporters focusing on real-time coverage.

What are crime journalists?

Crime journalists are reporters who specialize in covering news related to criminal activities, law enforcement investigations, court cases, and the justice system. They gather information from police reports, court documents, and interviews with sources such as law enforcement officials, lawyers, and witnesses. Their work involves verifying facts, adhering to ethical standards, and presenting accurate accounts to the public. Crime journalists play a crucial role in keeping communities informed about safety issues and the workings of the legal system.

What are some common challenges faced by crime journalists when reporting on sensitive cases?

Crime journalists often encounter challenges such as verifying information from multiple sources, maintaining ethical standards when reporting sensitive details, and ensuring the safety and privacy of both victims and their own sources. Balancing the need for timely, accurate reporting with respect for ongoing investigations can also be demanding. Additionally, crime journalists may work irregular hours and face emotional stress when covering traumatic events, making self-care and strong editorial support essential.

How do you become a crime journalist?

To become a crime journalist, individuals typically pursue a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing strong writing and investigative skills, and building a portfolio of reporting work are essential steps in entering the profession.

Is 30 too late to get into journalism?

Crime journalism is open to individuals of various ages, and starting a journalism career at 30 is common. Success depends on skills, experience, and dedication; many journalists begin or switch careers later in life and succeed by building relevant knowledge and networks.

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

To thrive as a Crime Journalist, you need strong investigative skills, a degree in journalism or communications, and a solid understanding of legal and ethical reporting standards. Familiarity with digital research tools, audio/video recording equipment, and newsroom content management systems is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and resilience under pressure distinguish top performers in this field. These skills are vital for accurately reporting sensitive crime stories, maintaining public trust, and ensuring personal and source safety.

How much do criminal journalists make?

Criminal journalists typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the media organization. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced reporters or those working for major outlets can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by freelance work or additional skills such as investigative reporting.
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What job categories do people searching Crime Journalist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Crime Journalist jobs are:
Crime Journalist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Crime Journalist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,979 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Multimedia Journalist - Spectrum News 1

Spectrum Networks

Dallas, TX

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

This role requires the ability to work lawfully in the U.S. without employment-based immigration sponsorship, now or in the future.

Are you a storyteller at heart? Do you want to shine a light on the issues that matter? Apply to be a Multimedia Journalist at Spectrum News.

Part of Charter Communications, Spectrum News is made up of over 30 hyper-local news and regional sports networks dedicated to producing original, unbiased, and high-quality content. We use innovative journalistic approaches, backed by comprehensive research, to engage and inform viewers on the most essential news, issues, and events taking place in their communities.

Beyond TV news distribution, our newsrooms publish via the Spectrum News app and connected television. We’re committed to providing viewers with 24-hour news—no matter how, when, and where they want it. Check out all the ways we share news on the Spectrum News Mobile App.


BE PART OF THE CONNECTION

In your role as a Multimedia Journalist (MMJ), you’ll get to the heart of every story by talking to members of your community. Our MMJs are enterprising storytellers who uncover perspectives that might otherwise go unreported. From pitching to writing, shooting, interviewing, and editing, you’ll take ownership of each step of the storytelling process and hone a wide range of skills. You’ll also be part of a collaborative team that creates compelling, timely, and accurate coverage to connect with viewers across traditional and digital platforms.

WHAT OUR MULTIMEDIA JOURNALISTS ENJOY MOST

  • Connecting with your neighbors as you dig into the issues that matter to your local community
  • Telling stories across platforms including TV, connected television, and digital
  • Working with flexible deadlines and a supportive community to maintain a work-life balance

As a part of Spectrum News, you’re creative, highly technical, and ready to bring your community’s stories to life in our newsroom. You value accuracy and want to leverage your curiosity and storytelling abilities to share inspiring news across multiple platforms. Each day is fast paced in a constantly evolving work environment with new stories to tell and perspectives to uncover. If you’re a nimble, passionate team player, you’ll find a home on our team.


WHAT YOU’LL BRING TO SPECTRUM NEWS

Required Qualifications

  • Experience: Television news reporting - 3+ years
  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism, Communications, or related field; or comparable television work experience
  • Technical Skills: Ability to shoot videos, understanding of video editing software, and utilize social media effectively
  • Skills: Ability to communicate effectively on camera and through writing and verbal expression
  • Abilities: An innate curiosity and a sense of urgency when it comes to creating compelling stories, lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds
  • Travel Ability: Must be open to travel to discover the important stories in your neighborhood and willing to interact with the community
  • Schedule: Ability to work under time pressure deadlines and willing and able to work different shifts or longer shifts due to 'breaking news' and severe weather emergencies, ability work weekends and holidays
  • Valid driver's license for authorized driving in the state of residence

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working in a 24-hour news channel

Working Conditions

  • Work inside in a climate-controlled environment and outside throughout the year and may be subjected to various weather conditions that could include extreme heat or cold conditions

#LI-TE1
NJR310 2026-75075 2026
Here, our employees don't just have jobs, they're building careers. That's why we offer a comprehensive pay and benefits package that rewards employees for their contributions to our success, supporting all aspects of their well-being at every stage of life.
A qualified applicant's criminal history, if any, will be considered in a manner consistent with applicable laws, including local ordinances.
Get to Know Us Charter Communications provides superior communication and entertainment products for residential and business customers through the Spectrum brand. Our offerings include Spectrum Internet, TV, Mobile and Voice. Beyond our connectivity solutions, we also provide local news, programming and regional sports via Spectrum Networks and multiscreen advertising solutions via Spectrum Reach. When you join our team, you'll be keeping our customers connected to what matters most in 41 states across the U.S. Watch this video to learn more.

Grow Your Career Here We're committed to growing a workforce that reflects the customers and communities we serve - providing opportunities for employment and advancement to all team members. Spectrum is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including job seekers with disabilities and veterans. Learn about Life at Spectrum.
Qualifications:

WHAT YOU’LL BRING TO SPECTRUM NEWS

Required Qualifications

  • Experience: Television news reporting - 3+ years
  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism, Communications, or related field; or comparable television work experience
  • Technical Skills: Ability to shoot videos, understanding of video editing software, and utilize social media effectively
  • Skills: Ability to communicate effectively on camera and through writing and verbal expression
  • Abilities: An innate curiosity and a sense of urgency when it comes to creating compelling stories, lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds
  • Travel Ability: Must be open to travel to discover the important stories in your neighborhood and willing to interact with the community
  • Schedule: Ability to work under time pressure deadlines and willing and able to work different shifts or longer shifts due to 'breaking news' and severe weather emergencies, ability work weekends and holidays
  • Valid driver's license for authorized driving in the state of residence

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working in a 24-hour news channel

Working Conditions

  • Work inside in a climate-controlled environment and outside throughout the year and may be subjected to various weather conditions that could include extreme heat or cold conditions
Employment Type: Full Time

Apply