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Journalism Reporter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

MediaNews Group, Inc.

Reporter

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.50/hr

If you truly believe local journalism is the heartbeat of a community, you'll fit right in here. The Vacaville Reporter is looking for an General Assignment Staff Reporter to tell the real ...

MediaNews Group, Inc.

Reporter

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.50/hr

If you truly believe local journalism is the heartbeat of a community, you'll fit right in here. The Vacaville Reporter is looking for an General Assignment Staff Reporter to tell the real ...

nantmedia

Night Reporter

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$26 - $35.50/hr

This essential role requires an experienced journalist with deep versatility who is comfortable juggling multiple stories and collaborating with colleagues. This reporter must be a self-starter who ...

Hearst Newspapers

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

Reporters at the Chronicle seek to provide must-read, best-in-class coverage through scoops, investigative stories, narrative journalism and utility pieces that demystify politics and government ...

Hearst

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

Reporters at the Chronicle seek to provide must-read, best-in-class coverage through scoops, investigative stories, narrative journalism and utility pieces that demystify politics and government ...

MediaNews Group, Inc.

Reporter

San Diego, CA

$33.65 - $36.06/hr

It's an excellent opportunity to produce impactful enterprise and investigative journalism, whether you're a seasoned investigator, a data or public-records whiz, or an accomplished beat reporter ...

MediaNews Group, Inc.

Reporter

San Diego, CA · On-site

$33.65 - $36.06/hr

It's an excellent opportunity to produce impactful enterprise and investigative journalism, whether you're a seasoned investigator, a data or public-records whiz, or an accomplished beat reporter ...

NEWSWELL

Business Reporter

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

Business Reporter, Newswell You will join the Santa Barbara News-Press as a dedicated business ... This is a role for a journalist who can move quickly on business news while developing deeper ...

Asuep

Business Reporter

Santa Barbara, CA

$28 - $34/hr

Business Reporter, Newswell You will join the Santa Barbara News-Press as a dedicated business ... This is a role for a journalist who can move quickly on business news while developing deeper ...

Hearst

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

Reporters at the Chronicle seek to provide must-read, best-in-class coverage through scoops, investigative stories, narrative journalism and utility pieces that demystify politics and government ...

Hearst

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

Reporters at the Chronicle seek to provide must-read, best-in-class coverage through scoops, investigative stories, narrative journalism and utility pieces that demystify politics and government ...

Hearst Newspapers

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

Reporters at the Chronicle seek to provide must-read, best-in-class coverage through scoops, investigative stories, narrative journalism and utility pieces that demystify politics and government ...

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All JobsJournalism Reporter JobsJournalism Reporter Jobs in California

Journalism Reporter information

See California salary details

$11

$27

$36

How much do journalism reporter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for journalism reporter in California is $27.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.27 and $31.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a journalism reporter do?

A Journalism Reporter is responsible for researching, investigating, and writing news stories for various media outlets, such as newspapers, magazines, television, radio, or online platforms. They gather information through interviews, observation, and research to ensure accuracy and fairness in their reporting. Reporters often work under tight deadlines and must be able to communicate clearly and objectively. Their work helps inform the public about current events, important issues, and community happenings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a journalism reporter?

To thrive as a Journalism Reporter, you need strong writing, research, and investigative skills, typically supported by a degree in journalism or communications. Familiarity with digital content management systems, audio/video recording equipment, and social media platforms is often required. Outstanding curiosity, ethical judgment, and interpersonal communication help a reporter build sources and tell compelling stories. These skills are crucial for producing accurate, engaging news content that informs the public and maintains audience trust.

How do journalism reporters typically collaborate with editors and photographers during the news production process?

Journalism Reporters work closely with editors to refine story angles, ensure accuracy, and meet publication standards. They often coordinate with photographers or videographers to capture compelling visuals that complement their written work. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as deadlines can be tight and stories may evolve quickly. This collaborative environment helps ensure that news stories are both informative and engaging for the audience.

What is the difference between Journalism Reporter vs News Correspondent?

AspectJournalism ReporterNews Correspondent
CredentialsJournalism degree, writing skillsJournalism degree, reporting experience
Work EnvironmentNewsrooms, field reportingField locations, studios, remote
Employer & IndustryMedia outlets, newspapers, TV stationsNews organizations, broadcasters
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in journalismDifferences in reporting positions

Journalism reporters primarily gather and write news stories from various sources, often working in newsrooms or in the field. News correspondents focus on reporting from specific locations, often providing live updates or special coverage. While both roles require journalism credentials and reporting skills, reporters tend to produce daily news content, whereas correspondents may cover specific beats or events on location.

What cities in California are hiring for Journalism Reporter jobs?

Cities in California with the most Journalism Reporter job openings:

Journalism Reporter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Journalism Reporter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,294 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA • Hybrid

Hearst Journalism Fellowship
See more jobs at Hearst Journalism Fellowshipexternal

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

S.F. City Hall reporter

San Francisco, CA

 

The San Francisco Chronicle is looking for an aggressive, enterprising reporter to cover City Hall with a focus on homelessness, affordable and supportive housing, and the drug epidemic, writing about San Francisco's and California's struggles to confront these crises and whether funds are being appropriately used.

 

Homelessness and open-air drug use in San Francisco and California have become national stories. The reporter on these beats will be tasked with explaining why one of the richest regions and states has failed to make significant progress on such visible and intractable problems while also looking at innovative solutions.  

 

This is an opportunity to break news on the people and policies shaping the story, hold the powerful to account, amplify new and important voices, and explain these issues to readers here and around the world. The reporter will be part of the San Francisco City Hall team and will focus on how city departments and elected officials respond to the crisis.

 

The reporter will be expected to build sources in the homeless community and spend time on the streets. They will be asked to tell the stories of unhoused residents and share the perspectives of housed residents and business owners.

 

Reporters at the Chronicle seek to provide must-read, best-in-class coverage through scoops, investigative stories, narrative journalism and utility pieces that demystify politics and government systems. We're seeking a self-starter who has strong writing skills, is comfortable providing and taking feedback, thrives on collaboration, is committed to inclusive journalism and wants to own the stories that matter most.

 

What you will do:

  • Compete to break news for SFChronicle.com and the Chronicle's print edition.

  • Examine how systems and leaders deliver on promises.

  • Develop enterprise stories, profiles and analysis pieces.

  • Produce digital projects by collaborating with other newsroom teams.

 

What it will take to be successful: 

  • At least two years of experience in a newsroom or related work environment.

  • Strong news judgment, creativity, meticulousness and commitment to fairness.

  • Willingness to dive deeply into policy details while clearly explaining them.

  • Ability to collaborate and work in a fast-changing news environment.

  • Commitment to visual storytelling and openness to alternative story forms.

 

Requirements: 

  • This position is full-time and will likely include some weekend work.

  • The candidate must be based in the Bay Area.

 

In accordance with applicable law, Hearst is required to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role if hired in California. The reasonable estimate is between $80,000 and $100,000. A final decision on the successful candidate's starting salary will be based on a number of permissible, non-discriminatory factors, including but not limited to skills and experience, training, certifications and education.

About the San Francisco Chronicle: 

The San Francisco Chronicle (www.sfchronicle.com) is the largest newspaper in Northern California and the second largest on the West Coast. Acquired by the Hearst Corporation in 2000, the Chronicle was founded in 1865 by Charles and Michael de Young and has been awarded seven Pulitzer Prizes for journalistic excellence, including the 2026 award for explanatory reporting.

HNP Overview: 

With 2,500 employees across the nation, Hearst Newspapers (HNP) represents a network of 28 daily and 50 weekly publications, including the Austin American-Statesman, Houston Chronicle, San Antonio Express-News, San Francisco Chronicle and Times Union (Albany). Our portfolio also includes several top digital-only news and lifestyle sites such as Chron., CT Insider, MySA and SFGATE, along with marketing services businesses like Medium Giant and entertainment brands such as King Features Syndicate. 

At HNP, we're investing in new and innovative ways to tell stories - growing newsrooms, diversifying tools and evolving platforms - to support the millions of people who trust us each month to help them make decisions, take action and be inspired. 

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