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Journalist Reporter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Reporter

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

This journalist will be responsible for developing enterprise stories, reporting breaking news, and ... You are a passionate reporter with strong news judgment and a commitment to accurate, engaging ...

Reporter

Los Angeles, CA

$130K - $150K/yr

This journalist will be responsible for developing enterprise stories, reporting breaking news, and ... You are a passionate reporter with strong news judgment and a commitment to accurate, engaging ...

Reporter

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

This journalist will be responsible for developing enterprise stories, reporting breaking news, and ... You are a passionate reporter with strong news judgment and a commitment to accurate, engaging ...

Night Reporter

El Segundo, CA

$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 ...

Reporter

Los Angeles, CA

$130K - $150K/yr

This journalist will be responsible for developing enterprise stories, reporting breaking news, and ... You are a passionate reporter with strong news judgment and a commitment to accurate, engaging ...

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 ...

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 ...

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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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Showing results 1-20

Journalist Reporter information

See California salary details

$13

$18

$22

How much do journalist reporter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for journalist reporter in California is $18.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do news reporters make good money?

Journalist reporters' salaries vary based on experience, location, and employer, with median annual wages around $45,000 to $70,000. Experienced reporters working for major outlets or in large markets can earn higher salaries, and additional skills like multimedia production can enhance earning potential.

What does a journalist reporter do?

A Journalist Reporter investigates, researches, and writes news stories for newspapers, magazines, websites, television, or radio. They gather information through interviews, observation, and reviewing documents, then present facts in a clear, accurate, and engaging manner for the public. Reporters often cover specific beats such as politics, sports, or local news, and may work under tight deadlines to deliver timely information. Their work plays a crucial role in informing the public and holding individuals and institutions accountable.

How do you get a job as a journalist reporter?

To become a journalist reporter, you typically need a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, building a strong portfolio, and developing skills in writing, interviewing, and multimedia tools are essential steps. Networking and applying to entry-level positions at media outlets also help start a career in journalism.

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

To thrive as a Journalist Reporter, you need strong research, writing, and interviewing skills, typically supported by a degree in journalism or communications. Familiarity with content management systems (CMS), digital editing tools, and multimedia platforms is often required. Curiosity, critical thinking, and the ability to work under tight deadlines are standout soft skills in this field. These qualities are crucial for producing accurate, engaging news stories and adapting to the fast-paced, evolving nature of the media industry.

What is the difference between Journalist Reporter vs News Anchor?

AspectJournalist ReporterNews Anchor
CredentialsJournalism degree, reporting experienceJournalism degree, on-air presentation skills
Work EnvironmentField reporting, newsroom researchStudio broadcasting, live presentation
Industry UsageWriting stories, investigating newsDelivering news to viewers

Journalist Reporters focus on researching, investigating, and writing news stories, often working in the field. News Anchors primarily present news stories on television or radio, often in a studio setting. Both roles require journalism credentials, but their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly, with reporters being more investigative and on-location, while anchors focus on delivering news to audiences.

What are some common challenges journalist reporters face when covering breaking news stories?

Journalist Reporters often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, rapidly changing information, and the need to verify facts quickly when covering breaking news. They may also have to work in unpredictable or high-pressure environments and coordinate closely with editors, photographers, and field producers to ensure accurate and timely reporting. Developing reliable sources and maintaining ethical standards under pressure are key aspects of managing these challenges successfully.
What are popular job titles related to Journalist Reporter jobs in California? For Journalist Reporter jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Journalist Reporter jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Journalist Reporter jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Journalist Reporter jobs? Cities in California with the most Journalist Reporter job openings:
Infographic showing various Journalist Reporter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,587 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Reporter I, MultiMedia Journalist

WOWK-TV

Bakersfield, CA

$18.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

The Multimedia Journalist Reporter produces, reports, shoots, writes, voices, edits and feeds news production content for all platforms in a manner that is clear, engaging and meaningful to news consumers.

He or she may also be called upon to regularly present weather forecasts.

  • Reports news stories for broadcast, describing the background and details of events
  • Arranges interviews with people who can provide information about stories
  • Reviews copy and corrects errors in content, grammar and punctuation, following prescribed editorial style and formatting guidelines
  • Reviews and evaluates notes taken about event aspects to isolate pertinent facts and details
  • Determines a story's emphasis, length and format, and organizes material accordingly
  • Researches and analyzes background information related to news stories to be able to provide complete and accurate information
  • Gathers information about events through research, interviews, experience or attendance at political, news, sports, artistic, social or other functions
  • Pitches stories to news managers and news producers which are relevant to the local community
  • Receives assignments and evaluates leads and tips to develop story ideas
  • Discusses issues with producers and/or news managers to establish priorities or positions
  • Checks reference materials such as books, news files or public records to obtain relevant facts
  • Revises work to meet editorial approval or to fit time requirements
  • Shoots and edits news events and news reports
  • Produces and presents reports for all platforms
  • Ensures that all content meets company standards for journalistic integrity and production quality
  • Writes stories for the web and other eMedia platforms
  • Interacts with viewers/users on social media sites
  • Performs special projects and other duties as assigned

Requirements & Skills:

  • Bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and work-related experience
  • Fluency in English
  • Excellent communication skills, both oral and written with the ability to ad lib when required
  • Minimum two years' experience in news reporting (Depending on market size)
  • Superior on-air presence
  • Proficiency with computers, telephones, copiers, scanners, fax machines and other office equipment
  • Ability to meet deadlines, prioritize assignments and handle multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Valid driver's license with a good driving record
  • Flexibility to work any shift

Salary: $18.25 per hour, depending on experience