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Freelance Journalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NPG Companies

Multimedia Journalist

Idaho Falls, ID

Proven experience as a news reporter or journalist (internships or freelance work accepted). * Strong writing and communication skills with impeccable grammar and spelling. * Excellent research and ...

The New York Times

Studio Video Journalist

New York, NY · On-site

$113K - $132K/yr

That means independent journalism is at the heart of all we do as a company. It's why we have a ... Coordinate complex studio and field logistics between in-house production and freelancers.

Brafton

Freelance Copy Writer - Travel/Cruise SME (US)

OR · Remote

$21.25 - $27.25/hr

This is a fully remote freelance opportunity and is open to candidates located anywhere in the US ... A related degree, such as English or Journalism. * Extensive experience with travel and cruising.

Digital Remedy

Multimedia Journalist (MMJ)

Reno, NV

At least 1-2 years of experience in journalism, broadcasting, or multimedia storytelling, including internships, freelance work, or collegiate media experience. * Experience with live shots is ...

ScreenRant

Classic TV Journalist

New York, NY · Remote

This is a paid freelance and remote position ScreenRant is the #1 entertainment website and ... Bachelor's Degree in Journalism, English Literature, or a related field * 2+ years of experience ...

Fox

Freelance Stage Manager, The Will Cain Show

Dallas, TX

$62 - $70.25/hr

Fox News Media is seeking an experienced Freelance Stage Manager to join the Will Cain Show in ... Bachelor's degree in journalism or a related field of study preferred, or equivalent experience We ...

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How much do freelance journalist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance journalist in the United States is $60,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Freelance Journalist vs Staff Journalist?

AspectFreelance JournalistStaff Journalist
CredentialsTypically a degree in journalism, communications, or related fieldSame as freelance, often with additional in-house training
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote, or varied locationsIn-office or newsroom setting
EmployerMultiple clients, media outlets, or agenciesSingle employer, media organization
Work StyleSelf-managed, flexible deadlinesStructured schedule, team collaboration

Freelance journalists work independently with multiple clients, offering flexibility and diverse assignments. Staff journalists are employed by a media organization, working within a team with a fixed schedule. Both roles require journalism credentials, but their work environments and employment structures differ significantly.

What are freelance journalists?

Freelance journalists are independent writers or reporters who are not employed by a single news organization but instead sell their work to various publications, websites, or media outlets. They pitch story ideas, conduct research and interviews, and write articles or produce multimedia content on a wide range of topics. Freelance journalists have the flexibility to choose their assignments and work schedules, but they are also responsible for finding their own clients, managing contracts, and handling their own business affairs. This career path allows for creative freedom and variety, but can also involve uncertainty regarding steady income and ongoing work.

What Does a Freelance Journalist Do?

As a freelance journalist, your job is to uncover the news, write the story, and pitch content suggestions to an editor. Freelance journalists frequently network with other professionals to get interviews and find stories, research topics through a credible website, and maintain a portfolio of sample content that's ready to publish at any time. You may specialize in particular areas, such as technology or the beauty industry, but your duties in this job are functionally identical regardless of specialization. However, some freelance journalists produce videos instead of writing stories.

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 writing, research, interviewing, and storytelling skills, often supported by a degree in journalism or communications. Familiarity with digital publishing platforms, content management systems, social media, and multimedia tools like photo and video editing software is typically required. Standout freelancers excel in self-motivation, time management, networking, and adaptability to different topics and deadlines. These abilities are crucial for producing high-quality, engaging content while managing multiple assignments and building a reputable portfolio in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges freelance journalists face when managing multiple assignments?

Freelance journalists often juggle several assignments with different deadlines, editors, and subject matter, which can make time management and organization particularly challenging. Balancing the need to pitch new stories while delivering quality work on current projects requires strong self-discipline and adaptability. Additionally, freelancers must proactively build and maintain relationships with editors and sources to ensure a steady workflow and access to information. Staying up-to-date on industry trends and maintaining a diverse portfolio also help in standing out in a competitive market.
More about Freelance Journalist jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Journalist jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Journalist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Journalist jobs? The most popular types of Journalist jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Journalist jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Journalist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Journalist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Journalist jobs are:
Freelance Journalist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Journalist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Full Time, 88% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,979 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Breaking News Writer (Freelance)

Diamond Diaspora Media LLC

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

Contractor

Posted 6 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