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Entry Level Reporter Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Sports Anchor / Reporter / MMJ If you're passionate about sports, thrive on breaking stories, and ... entry-level role. * Extensive sports knowledge and a proven ability to deliver engaging sports ...

Sports Anchor / Reporter / MMJ If you're passionate about sports, thrive on breaking stories, and ... entry-level role. * Extensive sports knowledge and a proven ability to deliver engaging sports ...

Entry Level Reporter information

See Tennessee salary details

$13.6K

$38.5K

$70.3K

How much do entry level reporter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level reporter in Tennessee is $38,463.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29,000.00 and $44,900.00 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 Tennessee?

The most popular types of Reporter jobs in Tennessee are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Reporter job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,463 per year, or $18.5 per hour.
Digital Remedy
Marketing • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Sports Anchor / Reporter / MMJ

If you're passionate about sports, thrive on breaking stories, and know how to connect with audiences beyond the final score, WZTV wants to hear from you.

We're looking for an experienced Sports Anchor/Reporter/MMJ who is equal parts storyteller, journalist, and content creator. This is an opportunity to cover everything from the big games and marquee athletes to the compelling stories that unite communities through sports. If you love enterprise reporting, can own a story from pitch to air, and are energized by creating content across multiple platforms, you'll fit right in.

In this role, you'll:

  • Anchor and report on sports across newscasts and digital platforms.
  • Produce compelling daily content for broadcast, online, and social media.
  • Develop original story ideas that go beyond highlights and scores.
  • Shoot, write, edit, and deliver impactful sports stories from start to finish.
  • Work collaboratively with photographers when safety or logistics require it, while regularly shooting and editing your own content.
  • Excel in a fast-paced newsroom, meeting deadlines while working a flexible schedule that includes evenings and weekends.
  •  

We're looking for someone who:

  • Is a strong writer with a sharp sense of storytelling.
  • Brings creativity, curiosity, and fresh ideas to every assignment.
  • Is a self-starter who consistently generates enterprise stories and breaks sports stories in the market.
  • Communicates effectively and collaborates well with colleagues across the newsroom.
  • Understands how to create content that resonates with both passionate sports fans and everyday news viewers.

This is not a scores-and-highlights position. We're looking for a journalist who can uncover meaningful stories, build sources, and produce memorable sports coverage that stands out.

Qualifications

  • At least 3 years of on-air anchoring experience.
  • Professional sports journalism experience in a commercial broadcast station is required; this is not an entry-level role.
  • Extensive sports knowledge and a proven ability to deliver engaging sports coverage.
  • Experience working collaboratively in a newsroom environment.
  • Strong live reporting skills and confidence covering breaking sports news.
  • Demonstrated ability to shoot and edit your own stories.
  • Podcasting experience is a plus and may strengthen your application.

In addition, include a link of your most recent work in the online application or send a non-returnable DVD to:

WZTV

Attn: Yvonne Simons, News Director

631 Mainstream Drive

Nashville, TN 37228

EEO AND INCLUSIVITY:

Sinclair is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and a drug free workplace. Employment practices will not be influenced or affected by virtue of an applicant's or employee's race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.


 

The life-blood of our organization is our people. We have a compelling story, a goal-oriented culture, and we take really good care of people. How good? Here is a glimpse: great benefits, open door policy, upward mobility and a strong desire to see you succeed. Ready to be part of a winning team? Let's talk.