2

Entry Level Reporter Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

PHOTOJOURNALIST Local 3 News, WRCB-TV of Chattanooga is seeking an entry-level photojournalist. The ... and reporters. Responsibilities * Photographing news stories using modern cameras and video ...

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 Jun 13, 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 are some 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 entry level reporters?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Reporter, and why are they important?

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 the most commonly searched types of Reporter jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Reporter jobs in Tennessee are:

Photojournalist

WRCB Local 3 News

Chattanooga, TN

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

PHOTOJOURNALIST JOB DESCRIPTION

Local 3 News, WRCB-TV of Chattanooga is seeking an entry-level photojournalist. The right person for this role will have an eye for photographic composition. Understanding the basics of good journalism, and possess the ability to gather accurate information about stories will come in handy as they work in cooperation with the news director, assignment manager, producers, and reporters.

Responsibilities

  • Photographing news stories using modern cameras and video equipment
  • Editing these stories for play-back during the station’s newscasts with sound in a crisp, clean, and creative manner
  • Operating microwave equipment
  • Produce video for stories, which will be interesting to the people of our viewing area
  • Use all tools of the profession to make these news stories as compelling as possible
  • Story Concept (5%), equipment maintenance (5%), photography (60%), editing (25%), and live production (5%)

Qualities and Requirements

  • Valid driver’s license with clean driving record
  • High school diploma or equivalent is required
  • Must be flexible with schedule, reliable, and dependable
  • Experience in photojournalism, editing, and content management systems
  • Demonstrate news judgement and understand the tenants of ethical journalism
  • Ability to lift up to 40 lbs of photography equipment
  • Ability to calmly handle live, breaking news situations and changing events

NOTE: This position sometimes requires long working hours. To perform this job successfully, this person must have a commitment to the profession, which transcends the mentality of a typical 9-5 worker. This job may require working nights, weekends, and holidays because of the unscheduled and immediate nature of the news business.

Benefits

  • Health, Life, and Vision Insurance
  • 401K Contribution
  • Holiday Pay
  • …and more!

If interested, please email your resume to ECollins@SarkesTarzian.com.

Sarkes Tarzian, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.

About Local 3 News

Local 3 News is one of two television stations owned by Sarkes Tarzian, Inc., an independent, family-oriented broadcaster with a dedication to local news and information.

Local 3 News is located just a few miles from the banks of the Tennessee River, the focal point of Downtown Chattanooga, a destination city and the centerpiece to a highly competitive mid-size television market. Chattanooga is known as “The Scenic City” for its breathtaking views of the Tennessee Valley from the surrounding Signal and Lookout Mountains. Chattanooga is known for the fastest internet in the country, a walkable downtown, and a plethora of outdoor activities, live music, local cuisine, and family-friendly activities like the Tennessee Aquarium. Just two hours from Atlanta, Nashville, and Birmingham, there is always a road trip to be had, though you likely will not need it with so much to do here at home.

Local 3 News is the Tennessee Valley’s proud weather leader, investing in the market’s first mobile weather center. With the largest news and weather staff in the market, Local 3 continues to invest in local resources to serve local viewers. Come join us and see why we are known as the station offering Coverage You Can Count On in a city known as the Best Town in America, according to Outside Magazine.