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Freelance Journalism Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

DDM GROUP LLC

Breaking News Writer (Freelance)

Atlanta, GA

$20.25 - $26/hr

Atlanta Black Star is seeking experienced Freelance Breaking News Writers to join our fast-paced ... This role is designed for journalists who live and breathe the news cycle. The ideal candidate is a ...

DDM GROUP LLC

Breaking News Writer (Freelance)

Atlanta, GA

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

Atlanta Black Star is seeking experienced Freelance Breaking News Writers to join our fast-paced ... This role is designed for journalists who live and breathe the news cycle. The ideal candidate is a ...

Hypepotamus

Editor-in-Chief

Atlanta, GA

A degree in journalism, communications, PR or media would be exceptionally helpful. * Startup ... and freelancers. Organizational and time management skills are essential. People management ...

Hypepotamus

Editor-in-Chief

Atlanta, GA · On-site

A degree in journalism, communications, PR or media would be exceptionally helpful. * Startup ... and freelancers. Organizational and time management skills are essential. People management ...

All JobsFreelance Journalism JobsFreelance Journalism Jobs in Decatur, GA

Freelance Journalism information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$7

$22

$32

How much do freelance journalism jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance journalism in Decatur, GA is $22.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $25.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Journalist, you need strong research, writing, and interviewing skills, typically supported by a background in journalism, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with content management systems (CMS), digital publishing platforms, and multimedia tools is often required. Outstanding time management, adaptability, and networking abilities help set top freelancers apart. These skills ensure the ability to produce accurate, engaging stories while managing multiple projects and building a reputable client base.

What is the difference between Freelance Journalism vs Staff Journalism?

AspectFreelance JournalismStaff Journalism
CredentialsTypically requires a journalism degree or relevant experienceRequires a journalism degree or equivalent experience
Work EnvironmentIndependent, flexible, often remoteIn-office or newsroom setting, structured hours
EmployerMultiple clients, self-employedMedia organizations, newspapers, TV stations
Work StyleProject-based, variable workloadConsistent, ongoing assignments

Freelance Journalism involves working independently for various clients, offering flexibility and diverse projects. Staff Journalism is employed by media outlets, providing a stable work environment with regular hours. Both roles require journalism credentials, but freelance journalists often manage their own schedules and client relationships, while staff journalists work within organizational structures.

What is freelance journalism?

Freelance journalism is a form of reporting where journalists work independently rather than being employed by a single media organization. Freelance journalists pitch story ideas to various publications, create content on a contract or per-piece basis, and often manage their own schedules and workload. This allows them more flexibility in choosing topics and outlets, but also requires them to handle their own business matters such as invoicing and securing assignments. Freelance journalists may write for newspapers, magazines, digital media, or broadcast outlets, covering a wide range of subjects.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Freelance Journalism Job?

A bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or English is beneficial if you want to become a freelance journalist. You must also have reliable technology to write and communicate with your editor. You need to continuously grow a portfolio to demonstrate your research and writing skills, making sure all your work is accurate and engaging. Networking is essential for obtaining freelance journalism jobs. Other qualifications include time management and research skills, awareness of current events, and the ability to handle rejection when you pitch articles.

How do freelance journalists typically find and pitch stories to editors or publications?

Freelance journalists often generate story ideas by staying current with news trends, engaging with communities, and identifying underreported topics. They then research potential publications that align with their story angle and craft concise, compelling pitches tailored to each editor's interests and the outlet's style. Building relationships with editors through networking and consistently delivering quality work can increase the chances of pitches being accepted. Freelancers must also be proactive in following up and managing multiple story leads to maintain a steady workflow.
More about Freelance Journalism jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Journalism jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Journalism jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Journalism jobs in Decatur, GA? For Freelance Journalism jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Journalism jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Journalism jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Freelance Journalism jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Freelance Journalism job openings:
Freelance Journalism jobs near you

Breaking News Writer (Freelance)

Diamond Diaspora Media LLC

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

Contractor

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

EOE Statement
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Description
Atlanta Black Star is seeking experienced Freelance Breaking News Writers to join our fast-paced digital newsroom.
This role is designed for journalists who live and breathe the news cycle. The ideal candidate is a relentless consumer of news, has exceptional reporting instincts, thrives under tight deadlines, and can quickly identify, research, verify, and develop compelling stories across a wide range of topics.
Our breaking news writers cover everything from politics, crime, culture, entertainment, celebrity, social issues, viral moments, and human interest stories to major national and international developments. No two days are the same.
The successful candidate understands that speed matters, but accuracy matters more. They know how to move quickly, dig deeper than competing outlets, uncover key details others miss, and transform developing news into engaging stories that readers cannot stop reading.
What We're Looking For
  • A genuine news junkie who follows the news throughout the day across multiple platforms and sources
  • Strong reporting instincts and the ability to identify stories before they become widely reported
  • Exceptional research and verification skills
  • Ability to quickly understand complex situations and explain them clearly to readers
  • Strong storytelling ability that keeps readers engaged from the headline through the final paragraph
  • Comfort covering a wide range of topics and adapting quickly to new subject matter
  • Ability to work independently while maintaining speed, accuracy, and editorial standards
  • Strong understanding of digital publishing, audience behavior, and content performance

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Monitor breaking news, social platforms, public records, competitor coverage, and emerging conversations throughout the day
  • Pitch, develop, report, and write timely stories across a broad range of news topics
  • Produce clean, accurate, publish-ready copy with minimal editing required
  • Quickly gather facts from multiple sources and verify information before publication
  • Identify unique angles, overlooked details, and opportunities to advance developing stories
  • Conduct interviews by phone, email, video conference, or in person when necessary
  • Follow stories from initial development through subsequent updates and follow-up coverage
  • Collaborate with editors to develop stronger story angles, enterprise reporting opportunities, and exclusive content
  • Manage multiple stories simultaneously while consistently meeting deadlines
  • Build and maintain a network of sources that can provide tips, context, and early access to information
  • Analyze content performance, audience trends, and reader behavior to improve story selection and pitching strategy
  • Utilize CMS tools, photos, video, and supporting media to maximize engagement and reader retention
  • Maintain high editorial standards for accuracy, sourcing, fairness, and attribution under deadline pressure

Position Requirements
REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:
  • BA in English or Journalism preferred or equivalent in experience.
  • Past reporting experience required, minimum 4 years with a mainstream publication
  • Knowledge of AP stylebook a plus
  • Strong writing, reporting, and editing skills
  • Demonstrated ability to cover breaking news quickly and accurately
  • Familiarity with public records, court documents, police reports, government sources, and digital research tools
  • Strong understanding of SEO and digital news publishing best practices
  • Ability to work efficiently in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment
  • Unwavering journalistic integrity and ethical standards
  • Must have strong skills in communicating and collaborating with editors and colleagues.
  • A great work ethic and a can-do attitude.
  • Exceptional attention to detail
  • Self-starter, highly motivated to succeed under minimal supervision

Full-Time/Part-Time
Independent Contractor
Salary
Position
Breaking News Writer (Freelance)
Division
Atlanta Black Star
Number of Openings
4
Exempt/Non-Exempt
Non-Exempt
Hiring Manager(s)
Req Number
JOU-26-00004
Open Date
6/8/2026
Location
Atlanta Black Star
About the Organization
Diamond Diaspora Media exists at the intersection of technology and media. We publish narratives intentionally and specifically to enlighten and transform the world. Our digital news platforms Atlantablackstar.com, Theshadowleague.com, and Finurah.com are leading the way with powerful content that spans the culture, sports, news features and timely-financial news that resonates with our 15 million readers.
Come join us and let us change the world together.
This position is currently accepting applications.

Apply