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News Assignment Editor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Paramount

Assignment Desk Assistant (per diem)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Key Responsibilities * Assist the Assignment Editor and work closely with reporters, photographers, and producers to coordinate breaking news coverage and support content for broadcast, digital, and ...

Paramount

Assignment Desk Assistant (per diem)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Key Responsibilities * Assist the Assignment Editor and work closely with reporters, photographers, and producers to coordinate breaking news coverage and support content for broadcast, digital, and ...

Asuep

Staff Reporter - Wednesday Journal

Oak Park, IL

$51K/yr

Staff Reporter - Wednesday Journal The Reporter is a general assignment role for a journalist who ... Exercise good news judgment and editorial discretion * Work closely with editors, fellow reporters ...

NEWSWELL

Staff Reporter - Wednesday Journal

Oak Park, IL · On-site

$51K/yr

Staff Reporter - Wednesday Journal The Reporter is a general assignment role for a journalist who ... Exercise good news judgment and editorial discretion * Work closely with editors, fellow reporters ...

Fox

Political Reporter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60 - $72/hr

This role requires a journalist who thrives on breaking news, holds public officials accountable ... Collaborate with producers, digital teams, and assignment editors to shape coverage * Use data ...

All JobsNews Assignment Editor JobsNews Assignment Editor Jobs in Chicago, IL

News Assignment Editor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$31

$45

How much do news assignment editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for news assignment editor in Chicago, IL is $31.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $37.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a news assignment editor do?

The responsibilities of a news assignment editor at a newspaper, digital news source, radio, or TV news program are to identify newsworthy stories and assign reporters, photographers, or TV crews to cover each story. As a news assignment editor, you coordinate with internal resources as well as subjects, PR personnel, and other managers to ensure that reporters have access to events, press conferences, and private interviews. You oversee the creation of the content and edit stories into a readable or viewable form. You typically work under more senior section editors or producers.

How does a news assignment editor typically coordinate coverage among reporters and photographers during breaking news events?

A News Assignment Editor plays a pivotal role in orchestrating coverage during breaking news by quickly assessing story priorities, assigning reporters and photographers to locations, and providing real-time updates as information evolves. They act as the central communication hub, relaying instructions, verifying facts, and ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently to cover all angles of the story. This requires strong multitasking skills and the ability to make swift decisions under pressure, while also maintaining clear communication with newsroom staff and field teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a news assignment editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a News Assignment Editor, you need strong editorial judgment, multitasking abilities, and a background in journalism or communications, often supported by a bachelor's degree. Familiarity with newsroom management systems, wire services, and digital publishing tools is typically required. Excellent communication, leadership, and decision-making skills help coordinate teams and manage breaking news situations effectively. These skills ensure accurate, timely news coverage and seamless newsroom operations in a fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between News Assignment Editor vs News Producer?

AspectNews Assignment EditorNews Producer
Primary RoleAssigns news stories to reporters and editors, manages newsroom workflowPlans, coordinates, and oversees the production of news segments and broadcasts
CredentialsJournalism degree or related experience, strong editing skillsJournalism or communications background, experience in broadcast production
Work EnvironmentNewsroom, fast-paced, deadline-drivenStudio or newsroom, coordinating live or recorded segments
Industry UsageCommon in broadcast and digital news outletsCommon in TV stations and news organizations

While both roles are vital in news production, the News Assignment Editor focuses on assigning stories and managing newsroom logistics, whereas the News Producer oversees the overall production and presentation of news segments. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the journalism industry.

How much money does a news assignment editor make?

A news assignment editor typically earns between $45,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the media organization. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of assignments and the level of responsibility involved.
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News Assignment Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various News Assignment Editor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 78% In-person, and 22% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $66,508 per year, or $32 per hour.

Assignment Desk Assistant (per diem)

Paramount

Chicago, IL • On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Paramount Senior Living rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

We are seeking a motivated Assignment Desk Assistant to support daily newsroom operations in Chicago. This role is ideal for someone with newsroom experience who is eager to grow, learn, and contribute to breaking news and investigative reporting. The Desk Assistant will work closely with the Assignment Editor and assist with identifying stories, coordinating coverage, and supporting newsroom logistics. This is a WGA covered position.   This position is per diem.

Key Responsibilities

  • Assist the Assignment Editor and work closely with reporters, photographers, and producers to coordinate breaking news coverage and support content for broadcast, digital, and streaming platforms.
  • Monitor scanners, email, social media, and public sources for potential news stories.
  • Help generate story ideas and track leads and tips.
  • Support follow-ups on past stories and assist with research.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Preferred Skills 

  • Strong interest in news gathering and current events.
  • Good organizational skills and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong communication skills and willingness to learn.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field preferred.
  • 1-2 years of newsroom or media experience preferred.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays

Hiring Salary Range: $23 - $25 per hour

The hiring salary range for this position applies to New York, California, Colorado, Washington state, and most other geographies. Starting pay for the successful applicant depends on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.  The benefits available for this position include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) plan, life insurance coverage, disability benefits, tuition assistance program and PTO or, if applicable,  as otherwise dictated by the appropriate Collective Bargaining Agreement. 

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