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Independent Journalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

gannett

Video Journalist

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

This journalist will use video to inform, engage and entertain key audiences, while also producing ... Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and make ...

gannett

Video Journalist

Milwaukee, WI

This journalist will use video to inform, engage and entertain key audiences, while also producing ... Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and make ...

NPG Companies

Multimedia Journalist

Idaho Falls, ID · On-site

Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Proficiency in digital tools and platforms used in modern journalism. * Knowledge of media ethics and legal regulations. * Strong attention to ...

Education Week

Visual Journalist

Bethesda, MD

$70K - $85K/yr

... independent, and highly respected journalism and research, with the goal of improving U.S. K-12 education. At Education Week, we believe that an equitable--and excellent--education for all students ...

TEGNA Inc.

Anchor/Multiskilled Journalist

Houston, TX · On-site

Develop original content through social listening and independent sources. * Perform other tasks as required by supervisor or executive producer. * Journalism and/or Communication degree preferred.

KBR

Science Journalist

Sioux Falls, SD · Hybrid

Science Journalist Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! Around here, we define the future. We are a ... Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Professional ...

KBR

Science Journalist

Sioux Falls, SD · Hybrid

BA in Mass Communications, Journalism, Remote Sensing, Geography, or closely related discipline ... Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Professional ...

Univision

Multimedia Journalist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

This journalist will be responsible for developing enterprise stories, reporting breaking news, and ... As part of our newsroom, you'll be expected to work independently in the field, write and edit your ...

Univision

Multimedia Journalist

Los Angeles, CA

$130K - $150K/yr

This journalist will be responsible for developing enterprise stories, reporting breaking news, and ... As part of our newsroom, you'll be expected to work independently in the field, write and edit your ...

Gannett Co., Inc.

Video Journalist

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

This journalist will use video to inform, engage and entertain key audiences, while also producing ... Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and make ...

HNP Houston Chronicle

Video Journalist

Houston, TX · On-site

The Houston Chronicle is looking for a Video Journalist to help bring our journalism to life ... The ideal candidate values craft, can operate independently, as part of a team, and is comfortable ...

Hearst

Video Journalist

Houston, TX · Hybrid

The Houston Chronicle is looking for a Video Journalist to help bring our journalism to life ... The ideal candidate values craft, can operate independently, as part of a team, and is comfortable ...

Hearst

Video Journalist

Houston, TX · Hybrid

The Houston Chronicle is looking for a Video Journalist to help bring our journalism to life ... The ideal candidate values craft, can operate independently, as part of a team, and is comfortable ...

Hearst Newspapers

Video Journalist

Houston, TX · Hybrid

The Houston Chronicle is looking for a Video Journalist to help bring our journalism to life ... The ideal candidate values craft, can operate independently, as part of a team, and is comfortable ...

WJBK Fox 2

Multi-Media Journalist

Atlanta, GA

$70K - $77K/yr

We are seeking a high-energy, versatile Multi-Media Journalist (MMJ) who has the skills to find ... Editorial Independence: The confidence to make sound editorial decisions in the field under daily ...

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Independent Journalist information

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How much do independent journalist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent 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 an independent journalist?

An independent journalist is a reporter or writer who operates without long-term affiliation to a specific news organization. They often work as freelancers, pitching stories to various media outlets, or publish content on their own platforms such as blogs, podcasts, or social media. Independent journalists are responsible for researching, reporting, and fact-checking their own work, and they typically cover stories that may be overlooked by mainstream media. This autonomy allows them to pursue niche topics or underreported issues, but it also means they must handle their own finances, marketing, and ethical standards.

What is the difference between Independent Journalist vs Freelance Writer?

AspectIndependent JournalistFreelance Writer
CredentialsJournalism degree or experience, sometimes certificationsNo specific credentials required, writing skills emphasized
Work EnvironmentNewsrooms, on-the-ground reporting, media outletsHome office, client sites, online platforms
Employer/Industry UsageMedia organizations, news agencies, online newsBusinesses, magazines, websites, marketing firms

While both roles involve writing, Independent Journalists focus on reporting news and investigative stories often for media outlets, requiring journalism credentials and fieldwork. Freelance Writers create a variety of content for clients, emphasizing versatility and writing skills without necessarily reporting news. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the media industry.

What are some common challenges independent journalists face when building a network of sources?

Independent journalists often encounter obstacles when establishing a reliable network of sources, such as building trust without the backing of a major media outlet and gaining access to exclusive information. They need to be persistent, transparent, and ethical to foster strong relationships with sources while ensuring confidentiality and accuracy. Leveraging professional associations, attending relevant events, and utilizing social media platforms can help expand their network, but it often requires significant time and proactive communication.

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

To thrive as an Independent Journalist, you need strong research abilities, excellent writing skills, and a solid understanding of journalistic ethics, often supported by a degree in journalism or communications. Familiarity with content management systems, digital publishing tools, and multimedia editing software is typically required. Curiosity, persistence, and effective networking are essential soft skills that set successful independent journalists apart. These competencies are crucial for producing credible, engaging stories and building a trustworthy reputation in a competitive media landscape.
More about Independent Journalist jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Journalist jobs? Cities with the most Independent Journalist job openings:
What states have the most Independent Journalist jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Journalist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Independent Journalist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Journalist jobs are:
Independent Journalist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Journalist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,979 per year, or $29.3 per hour.
Video Journalist

Video Journalist

gannett

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

Other

Posted 29 days ago

Gannett rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 65 rated media

Job description

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel is seeking an experienced, highly skilled video journalist to create distinctive visual storytelling across platforms. This journalist will use video to inform, engage and entertain key audiences, while also producing still photography when needed. 

The ideal candidate is fluent in digital journalism tools and best practices, with an emphasis on fast, high-quality video production and photo galleries for both breaking news and enterprise coverage. The journalist will cover daily assignments on sports, business, public safety, weather, education and more. They should bring original ideas, collaborate well with reporters and editors, and take initiative to pitch and execute compelling visual stories that serve audience needs. 

What you’ll do 

  • Produce, shoot and edit high-quality video and still images that accurately inform, entertain and engage our audience.
  • Develop and pitch fresh, timely visual story ideas, including videos, photo galleries and other multimedia.
  • Work on tight deadlines for breaking news as well as planned coverage, often managing multiple assignments at once.
  • Use audience metrics to shape coverage decisions and refine visual storytelling.
  • Maintain and regularly update visuals on digital platforms to keep coverage current and relevant.
  • Build strong relationships with editors, reporters, and the community, contributing to coverage plans and newsroom collaborations. 

What you’ll bring 

  • Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or related field, or equivalent experience. 
  • 2–3 years of professional experience in video creating, editing or visual journalism. 
  • Strong news judgment, planning skills and attention to detail. 
  • Proven ability to prioritize, multitask and pivot quickly as news and assignments change. 
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and make sound decisions in the field. 
  • Openness to feedback and commitment to continual improvement. 
  • Willingness to work nights, weekends and travel as news requires. 

Application Instructions   

We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don’t limit your upload to a resume; show us what you’ve done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order: 

  1. Your resume – one to two pages.
  2. A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
  3. Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what you’ve produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role. 

It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.

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