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Crime Reporter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Reporters cover a wide range of beats, including city and county government, politics, community events, education, business, trade, weather, entertainment, crime, courts, sports and more.

Reporters cover a wide range of beats, including city and county government, politics, community events, education, business, trade, weather, entertainment, crime, courts, sports and more.

Reporters cover a wide range of beats, including city and county government, politics, community events, education, business, trade, weather, entertainment, crime, courts, sports and more.

Reporters cover a wide range of beats, including city and county government, politics, community events, education, business, trade, weather, entertainment, crime, courts, sports and more.

Reporters cover a wide range of beats, including city and county government, politics, community events, education, business, trade, weather, entertainment, crime, courts, sports and more.

Digital Reporter

Tampa, FL ยท On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Join Esquire as a Digital Reporter -a vital role where you preserve the official record of legal ... Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and ability to pass a national criminal background ...

Official Court Reporter

Saint Louis, MO ยท On-site +1

$97K - $112K/yr

Official Court Reporters are responsible for the verbatim reporting of both civil and criminal proceedings held before the United States District Judges, and as directed for proceedings before ...

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Crime Reporter information

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$12

$27

$37

How much do crime reporter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for crime reporter in the United States is $27.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $31.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Crime Reporter vs Crime Journalist?

AspectCrime ReporterCrime Journalist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in journalism or communicationsSimilar educational background, often with specialized training in journalism
Work EnvironmentWorks for newspapers, TV stations, or online media covering crime storiesWorks in media outlets, focusing on crime-related news and investigations
Industry UsageCommonly used term in news reportingOften used interchangeably, but can imply a broader focus on crime stories

Crime Reporter and Crime Journalist roles overlap significantly, both requiring journalism credentials and working within media outlets covering crime. The main difference is that 'Crime Reporter' emphasizes reporting on crime events, while 'Crime Journalist' may include investigative work and broader crime-related storytelling. Both titles are used in the media industry to describe professionals who inform the public about criminal activities and justice issues.

What are crime reporters?

Crime reporters are journalists who specialize in investigating and reporting on criminal activities, law enforcement, and the justice system. They gather information from police reports, court documents, and interviews with officials and witnesses to provide the public with accurate and timely news about crimes and related issues. Their work often involves working irregular hours and visiting crime scenes, all while maintaining ethical standards and sensitivity toward victims. Crime reporters play an important role in keeping communities informed and holding authorities accountable.

How do you become a crime reporter?

To become a crime reporter, typically a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships, developing strong writing and investigative skills, and building a network in the media industry are important steps to enter the profession.

How much do crime journalists get paid?

Crime journalists typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the media organization. Entry-level reporters may start lower, while experienced professionals or those working for major outlets can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with benefits and opportunities for overtime or freelance work.

What does a crime reporter do?

A crime reporter researches, investigates, and reports on criminal activities, law enforcement actions, and related events for news outlets. They gather information from sources such as police reports, court records, and interviews, often working under tight deadlines and using tools like recording devices and writing software.

What are some common challenges crime reporters face when gathering information for their stories?

Crime reporters often encounter challenges such as gaining access to reliable sources, verifying facts in rapidly evolving situations, and navigating sensitive or traumatic subject matter. Building trust with law enforcement, victims, and witnesses requires professionalism and empathy, while maintaining accuracy and objectivity is crucial under deadline pressure. Additionally, crime reporters must remain mindful of legal and ethical guidelines when reporting on ongoing investigations to avoid compromising cases.

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

To thrive as a Crime Reporter, you need strong investigative skills, a background in journalism or communications, and a solid understanding of legal and ethical considerations. Familiarity with digital research tools, data analysis software, and content management systems is typically required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and the ability to build trust with sources are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate, timely, and responsible reporting on sensitive crime-related topics for the public.

Is 30 too late to get into journalism?

Crime reporting is open to individuals of various ages, and starting a journalism career at 30 is common. Success depends on skills such as strong writing, investigative abilities, and relevant experience, which can be developed through education, internships, or networking. Age is generally not a barrier to entering the field if you demonstrate commitment and relevant skills.
More about Crime Reporter jobs
What cities are hiring for Crime Reporter jobs? Cities with the most Crime Reporter job openings:
What states have the most Crime Reporter jobs? States with the most job openings for Crime Reporter jobs include:
Infographic showing various Crime Reporter job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,041 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

$94K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Salary: $94,510.00 - $113,411.00 Annually
Location : Del Rio, TX
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: USDC 25-09
Agency: United States District Court
Division: Del Rio
Opening Date: 12/17/2024
Closing Date: Continuous
Position Overview
Position Title: Official Court Reporter
Job Number: USDC 25-09
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Salary Range: $95,454 - $114,546* (Salary commensurate with qualifications)
*Court Reporter (CR) Levels 1 - 5 in accordance with the 2025 Court Reporters' Rates of Pay.
Location: Del Rio, Texas
The United States District Court for the Western District of Texas is seeking qualified applicants for the full-time position of Official Court Reporter in the Del Rio divisional office. An official court reporter is responsible for the verbatim reporting of proceedings held before United States District Judges and Magistrate Judges and for the transcription of those proceedings upon request. Occasional travel will be required as the Court is designated to preside in other locations throughout the Western District of Texas.
Responsibilities
REPRESENTATIVEDUTIES
  • Attend and record verbatim court sessions for both civil and criminal proceedings; read back portions of court record as required.
  • Provide transcripts within the time and cost limitations set by the Judicial Conference; electronically file with the Clerk of Court a copy of all transcripts prepared concurrently with delivery to the requesting parties.
  • Provide transcripts and/or a Realtime feed to the Court upon request, without charge.
  • Perform administrative duties as required, such as billing for transcripts, financial and other record keeping, preparation and filing of required Administrative Office reports, and responding to official correspondence and telephone calls.
  • Maintain and safeguard records until they are disposed of according to statutory requirements and national and local policies.
  • Adhere to the requirements of The Guide to Judiciary Policy, Volume VI, as well as the Court's local Court Reporter Management Plan.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Preferred Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Must possess a minimum of at least one (1) year of prime court reporting experience in a court, or in the freelance field of service or a combination thereof.
  • Must have passed the Registered Professional Reporters (RPR) examination administered by the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) or passed an equivalent qualifying examination* such as the Certified Verbatim Reporter (CVR) administered by the National Verbatim Reporters Association (NVRA).
  • Realtime court reporting proficiency, Realtime certification is preferred.
  • Must own or be willing to purchase, upon entry on duty, realtime court reporting equipment.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills to permit the production of transcripts within strict time limitations.
  • Work well under pressure and be willing to work as part of a team of court reporters fulfilling the needs of all judicial officers of the Court.
  • Must possess tact, good judgement, poise, initiative, and always maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.

*Equivalent Qualifying Examination - Professional associations (other than the NCRA) and state license examinations may be acceptably equivalent to the NCRA testing, but the requirements for the examinations at the time of administration should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis as the requirements change from time-to-time.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS
  • Registered Professional Reporters (RPR) or equivalent qualifying exam.
  • Reporters who possess a Certificate of Registered Merit Reporter (RMR) or are a Certified Realtime Reporter (CRR) from NCRA or have passed an equivalent qualifying exam.
  • Reporters with prior federal court experience.

COMPENSATION
CRLEVEL1: $95,454 (minimum qualifications)
CRLEVEL2: $100,227 requires merit certification) *
CRLEVEL3: $104,999 (requires realtime certification) **
CRLEVEL4: $109,772 (requires realtime and merit certification)
CRLEVEL5: $114,546 (current Federal Official Court Reporter hired before October 11,2009, with longevity: minimum of ten years Federal Service; Merit and Realtime Certification)
*Merit Certification (RMR): Registered merit reporter certificate from NCRA
**Realtime Certification (CRR): Successful completion of a certified realtime exam by NCRA or equivalent exam
In addition to the starting salary for court reporters set by the Judicial Conference, an official court reporter is entitled to transcript fees from any party who has contracted with the court reporter for transcript services. The following link provides further information on the Federal Court Reporting Program transcripts.
Application Procedure
Qualified candidates may apply by submitting a cover letter (include job title/number listed above), detailed resume, e-mail address, daytime phone number, and a copy of all court reporter certifications to: www.txwd.uscourts.gov > Court Info > Jobs > Current Employment Opportunities & Online Application. Applications will be considered as soon as received and will continue to be considered until the position is filled.
The United States Courts reserves the right to modify the conditions of this job announcement, or to withdraw the announcement, any of which may occur without prior written or other notice. More than one position may be filled from this posting. In the event that a position becomes vacant in a similar classification, within a reasonable time of the original announcement, the Court Unit Executive may elect to select a candidate from the applicants who responded to the original announcement without posting the position. The Court is not authorized to reimburse travel expenses for interviews or relocation. This position is subject to mandatory electronic direct deposit of salary payments. All applicants must be a U.S. citizen or must be a lawful permanent resident (i.e., green card holder) and seeking U.S. citizenship. Applicants are advised that false statements or omission of information on any application materials may be grounds for non-selection, withdrawal of an offer of employment, or dismissal after being employed. Employees of the U.S. Courts serve under "Excepted Appointments" and are considered "at-will" employees (except for probation officers who may be removed for cause). All employees are required to adhere to the Code of Conduct for Judicial Employees (available for review upon request). Applicants scheduled to interview should advise the Human Resources staff if any accommodation is needed.
The United States District Court is an Equal Opportunity Employer
The federal Judiciary provides a generous benefit package, which includes:
  • Retirement Benefits:
    • Federal Employes Retirement System (FERS) Basic Benefit Plan
    • Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) - 401k styled program with up to a 5% government match
    • Social Security
  • Paid vacation and sick leave
  • 11 paid federal government holidays
  • Optional Benefits:
    • Health, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance options
    • Flexible Benefits Program offering medical care, dependent care, and parking reimbursement
    • Employee Assistance Program
    • Flexible work schedules and telework, depending on location and position
    • On-site gym, depending on location
For additional information regarding benefits, go to
01
Are you either qualified for listing on the registry of the National Court Reporters Association or have passed an equivalent qualifying examination?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Have you attached a copy of your certificate?
  • Yes
  • No

03
How many years of court reporting experience do you have?
Required Question