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News Desk Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Paramount

News Desk Supervisor

West Sacramento, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

The News Desk Supervisor is responsible for managing newsroom assignments, monitoring phones ... You will work with the Assistant News Director and Executive Producer Impacting Communities to ...

Paramount

News Desk Supervisor

West Sacramento, CA

$90K - $100K/yr

The News Desk Supervisor is responsible for managing newsroom assignments, monitoring phones ... You will work with the Assistant News Director and Executive Producer Impacting Communities to ...

University of Georgia

Desk Assistant

Athens, GA · On-site

$12/hr

News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles ... This includes overnight shifts (for Night Desk Assistants), weekends, academic breaks, and holidays ...

University of Georgia

Night Desk Assistant

Athens, GA · On-site

$12/hr

News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles ... This includes overnight shifts (for Night Desk Assistants), weekends, academic breaks, and holidays ...

Chicago Public Media

Assistant News Editor

Chicago, IL

$77K - $85K/yr

THE OPPORTUNITY The night assistant news editor is responsible for running the Sun-Times' news ... The editor will oversee the work of General Assignment reporters on the News Desk by assigning them ...

Chicago Public Media

Assistant News Editor

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$77K - $85K/yr

THE OPPORTUNITY The night assistant news editor is responsible for running the Sun-Times' news ... The editor will oversee the work of General Assignment reporters on the News Desk by assigning them ...

Chicago Sun-Times

Assistant News Editor

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$77K - $85K/yr

THE OPPORTUNITY The night assistant news editor is responsible for running the Sun-Times' news ... The editor will oversee the work of General Assignment reporters on the News Desk by assigning them ...

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How much do news desk assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for news desk assistant in the United States is $20.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a News Desk Assistant typically contribute to the newsroom's daily workflow?

A News Desk Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the newsroom's operations by handling tasks such as monitoring news wires, assisting with story research, coordinating logistics, and ensuring timely communication between reporters, producers, and editors. They often manage administrative duties and help prioritize breaking news, making themselves an essential link in the fast-paced news environment. This position provides hands-on exposure to the editorial process and offers valuable experience for those aspiring to advance in journalism, as it requires adaptability, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a News Desk Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a News Desk Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a relevant degree in journalism or communications. Familiarity with newsroom management systems, content management platforms, and proficiency in using newswires and editing software are typically required. Excellent communication, multitasking, and teamwork skills help you manage fast-paced environments and coordinate with reporters and editors. These abilities ensure accurate information flow, timely news coverage, and efficient newsroom operations.

What does a news desk assistant do?

A news desk assistant supports journalists and editors by managing incoming news stories, verifying information, and preparing materials for publication. They often handle administrative tasks, use newsroom software, and work on tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between News Desk Assistant vs News Reporter?

AspectNews Desk AssistantNews Reporter
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer journalism or communication degreesBachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or related field
Work EnvironmentNewsrooms, media outlets, often in fast-paced environments supporting reportersField and studio reporting, interviews, live coverage
Employer & Industry UsageMedia companies, newspapers, online news platformsNews organizations, TV stations, online media
Search & Comparison IntentSupport roles assisting in news productionActive reporting and storytelling

The main difference is that a News Desk Assistant primarily supports news production behind the scenes, handling tasks like research and coordination, while a News Reporter actively gathers and reports news stories. Both roles are essential in the journalism industry but differ in responsibilities and experience requirements.

Why is Gen Z struggling to get jobs?

Gen Z faces challenges in securing jobs due to high competition, limited work experience, and employers' preference for candidates with more established skills. Many entry-level roles require digital literacy, adaptability, and relevant certifications, which can be barriers for new job seekers in this age group.

How much does a news production assistant make?

A news desk assistant, often called a news production assistant, typically earns between $25,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the media organization. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those in larger markets can earn higher salaries. Skills in communication, organization, and familiarity with newsroom tools are important for this role.

Is it hard to get a job as a news reporter?

Getting a job as a news desk assistant or news reporter can be competitive, often requiring strong writing, reporting skills, and relevant education or experience. Entry-level positions may be accessible with internships or a portfolio of work, but advancing in the field typically involves building a network and gaining experience in fast-paced environments.
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News Desk Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various News Desk Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,356 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Part Time News Assistant

Part Time News Assistant

Digital Remedy

Portland, ME

Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

WGME CBS 13/WPFO FOX 23 in Portland, Maine is a trusted brand providing Maine viewers with local news, weather, sports, entertainment, and social media content. We help grow the most talented people in television. You have the opportunity to work with a team filled with spirit, passion and imagination. We currently have an exciting opportunity for an aggressive, energetic and creative part-time News Desk Assistant to support our newsroom on its daily operations.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Operate Teleprompter during newscasts
  • Update station website. Seek out and post video material to website, when needed
  • Gather news affecting the community; read local newspapers, news wires and the internet to know stories and updates at all times
  • Assist in the efficient operation of the assignment desk
  • Generate and develop news stories
  • Monitor police, fire and other scanners; make calls to various public safety agencies and other news makers for possible news story leads
  • Update daily news coverage rundown, assigning reporters by various specialties, where applicable, to the coverage of stories
  • Other duties as assigned
  • This position reports to the News Director

Experience & Qualifications:

  • A 2 or 4 year journalism, communications, or media production degree is required.  
  • The ability to work with a multitude of people and personalities, while maintaining a professional work environment
  • The ability to work in a fast-paced team environment with various levels of staff
  • Experience in the broadcast industry a plus!
  • Have sharp television news judgement and be able to monitor various platforms for breaking news and story ideas; scanners, viewer tips, phone calls, social media sources and other local and national news sources.
  • Must be forward thinker to assist in planning for future events
  • Computer and word processing skills
  • Excellent communication skills

EEO AND INCLUSIVITY:

Sinclair is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and a drug free workplace. Employment practices will not be influenced or affected by virtue of an applicant's or employee's race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Sinclair, Inc. (Nasdaq: SBGI) is a diversified media company and a leading provider of local news and sports. The Company owns, operates, and/or provides services to 178 television stations in 81 markets affiliated with all major broadcast networks; owns Tennis Channel, the premium destination for tennis enthusiasts; multicast networks CHARGE, Comet, ROAR, and The Nest. Sinclair's AMP Media produces a growing portfolio of digital content and original podcasts. Additional information about Sinclair can be found at www.sbgi.net.The life-blood of our organization is our people. We have a compelling story, a goal-oriented culture, and we take really good care of people. How good? Here is a glimpse: great benefits, open door policy, upward mobility and a strong desire to see you succeed. Ready to be part of a winning team? Let's talk.

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