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Entry Level Reporter Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois

IL · On-site

As the second level of the Official Court Reporter title series, this level is distinguished from the entry level position by the minimum requirement of an unrestricted State of Illinois Certified ...

Hearst

Business and Education Reporter

Alton, IL · On-site

This is an excellent opportunity for an entry-level or early-career journalist who wants to develop ... The reporter may occasionally assist with other coverage when newsroom needs require. What will you ...

Hearst

Business and Education Reporter

Alton, IL · On-site

This is an excellent opportunity for an entry-level or early-career journalist who wants to develop ... The reporter may occasionally assist with other coverage when newsroom needs require. What will you ...

Hearst

Business and Education Reporter

Alton, IL · On-site

This is an excellent opportunity for an entry-level or early-career journalist who wants to develop ... The reporter may occasionally assist with other coverage when newsroom needs require. What will you ...

Hearst

Business and Education Reporter

Alton, IL · On-site

This is an excellent opportunity for an entry-level or early-career journalist who wants to develop ... The reporter may occasionally assist with other coverage when newsroom needs require. What will you ...

Hearst

Business and Education Reporter

Alton, IL · On-site

This is an excellent opportunity for an entry-level or early-career journalist who wants to develop ... The reporter may occasionally assist with other coverage when newsroom needs require. What will you ...

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All JobsReporter JobsEntry Level Reporter JobsEntry Level Reporter Jobs in Illinois

Entry Level Reporter information

See Illinois salary details

$14.5K

$41.1K

$75.1K

How much do entry level reporter jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level reporter in Illinois is $41,065.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,000.00 and $48,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level reporter?

Entry level reporters are journalists who are new to the profession, often just starting their careers in news organizations or media outlets. They are responsible for researching, writing, and reporting news stories under the supervision of more experienced editors. Entry level reporters typically cover local events, community issues, or assist with larger stories while learning newsroom workflows and journalistic standards. Their work helps them build essential skills in interviewing, fact-checking, and storytelling, laying the foundation for advancement in the journalism field.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level reporter?

To thrive as an Entry Level Reporter, you need strong writing, research, and interviewing skills, usually supported by a degree in journalism or communications. Familiarity with content management systems, digital publishing tools, and basic multimedia editing software is typically expected. Curiosity, persistence, and excellent interpersonal communication help reporters build sources and tell compelling stories. These abilities are crucial for producing accurate, engaging news content and meeting tight deadlines in a competitive media environment.

What are common challenges faced by entry level reporters during their first year on the job?

Entry level reporters often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to fast-paced newsroom environments, meeting tight deadlines, and learning to balance accuracy with speed. Building a reliable network of sources and gaining trust in the community can also be difficult initially. Additionally, new reporters may need to handle a diverse range of assignments, from covering breaking news to attending community events, which requires strong organizational skills and adaptability.

What is the difference between Entry Level Reporter vs Junior Journalist?

AspectEntry Level ReporterJunior Journalist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or related fieldBachelor's degree in journalism, media, or related field
Work EnvironmentNewsrooms, media outlets, online platformsNews organizations, online media, print outlets
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in news reporting and media industryUsed interchangeably in journalism and media sectors
Search & Comparison IntentHigh overlap with Junior Journalist in entry-level rolesOften compared for early career positions

The main difference between an Entry Level Reporter and a Junior Journalist lies in terminology and specific employer preferences. Both roles typically require similar educational backgrounds and work in comparable environments within the media industry. They are often used interchangeably for entry-level positions, with the choice depending on the company's naming conventions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Reporter jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Reporter jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Reporter jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Reporter job openings:

Entry Level Reporter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Reporter job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,065 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

OCJ - Official Court Reporter

Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois

IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF JUDGE
CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS  
COURT REPORTING SERVICES
                                                     
Job Title:      OFFICIAL COURT REPORTER 2
Union:          IBEW, LOCAL 134
Salary:          $76,336.16
Location:      COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS
PURPOSE
Provides stenographic services in order to produce a verbatim record at a high rate of speed.
Employees under this classification prepare transcripts from stenographic notes for which they are paid a separate page rate.  Preparing transcripts outside of regular working hours is not considered regular working hours for the purpose of calculating hours worked in a week.
As the second level of the Official Court Reporter title series, this level is distinguished from the entry level position by the minimum requirement of an unrestricted State of Illinois Certified Shorthand Reporter’s (CSR) License.  This class is distinguished from the higher level Official Court Reporter titles by the level of proficiency.
Work is performed under the direction of the chief judge, administrator and supervisor and is reviewed through personal conferences, general observation of work in progress and upon completion.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Responsible to the Chief Judge, the Administrator and the supervisor.
  • Must comply with all applicable statues, administrative orders, court rules and all regulations promulgated by the Chief Judges and any amendments thereof.
  • Provides stenographic services in order to produce a verbatim record at a high rate of speed.
  • Keeps a monthly report of all transcripts on order and files the original report as directed by the Chief Judge.
  • Prepares all transcripts in a timely manner.
  • Follows proper courtroom etiquette, including, but not limited to, impartiality to parties, and appropriate demeanor and dress as specified by the regulations and local rules.
  • Operates personal computer (i.e. stenographic software, word process and other applications.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
Must possess a Certified Shorthand Reporter’s (CSR) License issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations and pass the Official Court Reporter Proficiency (Part A) examination.  If the reporter possesses an unrestricted CSR License, they will be given one (1) year from hire to pass the Official Court Reporter Proficiency exam.
SELECTION FACTORS
            Knowledge and Skills
  • Knowledge and skill in performing stenographic duties and the ability to reduce the spoken word into a verbatim record at a high rate of speed.
  • Knowledge and skill in the use of personal computer and applications (i.e. stenographic software, word processing and other applications).
  • Working knowledge of office procedures, composition, records management and office communications.
  • Ability to organize work effectively and meet required deadlines and schedules.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to review documents for proper form, content and agreement with policies.
  • Associates with employees and the public in a pleasant, courteous and helpful manner.
  • Ability to be flexible and productively respond to change.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to retrieve files.
  • Ability to lift up to 20 pounds
  • Ability to sit for extended time periods.
Normal office working environment requiring telephone usage and ability to process written documents.
This position requires a pre-employment drug screening and criminal background check.  Applicants are advised that as a Drug Free Workplace, use of medical or recreational marijuana is prohibited and will disqualify a candidate from employment. 
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all required screening criteria.
Information about benefits available for this position may be found at SERS of Illinois
Please apply by filling out the application at our Career Page.
It is the policy of the Office of the Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County to provide equal opportunity in employment to all employees and applicants for employment.  No person is to be discriminated against in employment because of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation.
Revised 7/1/25
 

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