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Newspaper Writing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Intern, Foodist

Palo Alto, CA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

... newspapers, seven hyperlocal news websites and six email newsletters that serve a population of ... The ideal candidate will possess excellent interviewing, writing and storytelling skills and have a ...

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

We're seeking a self-starter who has strong writing skills, is comfortable providing and taking ... The San Francisco Chronicle (www.sfchronicle.com) is the largest newspaper in Northern California ...

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA ยท Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

We're seeking a self-starter who has strong writing skills, is comfortable providing and taking ... The San Francisco Chronicle (www.sfchronicle.com) is the largest newspaper in Northern California ...

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA ยท Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

We're seeking a self-starter who has strong writing skills, is comfortable providing and taking ... The San Francisco Chronicle (www.sfchronicle.com) is the largest newspaper in Northern California ...

Features Freelancer

Palo Alto, CA ยท On-site

$74 - $83.75/hr

Content will also be featured in the Palo Alto Weekly, Redwood City Pulse, Mountain View Voice and The Almanac, as well as in weekly newsletters and newspapers. Freelance writers need to be reliable ...

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA ยท Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

We're seeking a self-starter who has strong writing skills, is comfortable providing and taking ... The San Francisco Chronicle (www.sfchronicle.com) is the largest newspaper in Northern California ...

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

We're seeking a self-starter who has strong writing skills, is comfortable providing and taking ... The San Francisco Chronicle (www.sfchronicle.com) is the largest newspaper in Northern California ...

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA ยท Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

We're seeking a self-starter who has strong writing skills, is comfortable providing and taking ... The San Francisco Chronicle (www.sfchronicle.com) is the largest newspaper in Northern California ...

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA ยท Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

We're seeking a self-starter who has strong writing skills, is comfortable providing and taking ... The San Francisco Chronicle (www.sfchronicle.com) is the largest newspaper in Northern California ...

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA ยท Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

We're seeking a self-starter who has strong writing skills, is comfortable providing and taking ... The San Francisco Chronicle (www.sfchronicle.com) is the largest newspaper in Northern California ...

Showing results 21-40

Newspaper Writing information

See California salary details

$950

$2.4K

$5.1K

How much do newspaper writing jobs pay per month?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average monthly pay for newspaper writing in California is $2,382.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,250.00 and $2,900.00 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is newspaper writing?

Newspaper writing refers to the process of creating articles, reports, and other written content for newspapers. It involves gathering information, conducting interviews, and presenting facts in a clear, concise, and engaging manner. Newspaper writers must adhere to journalistic standards, such as objectivity and accuracy, while often working under tight deadlines. The writing style is typically straightforward and designed to inform the public about current events, issues, and topics of interest.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a newspaper writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Newspaper Writer, you need strong writing, research, and editing skills, usually supported by a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with content management systems (CMS), AP Style, and digital publishing tools is typically required. Excellent interviewing, time management, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for producing compelling stories under tight deadlines. These abilities ensure accurate, engaging reporting that meets publication standards and connects with diverse audiences.

What are some common challenges faced by newspaper writers when working under tight deadlines?

Newspaper writers often work under very tight deadlines, which can make it challenging to balance accuracy with speed. Writers must quickly gather facts, verify sources, and craft compelling stories, all while ensuring that information is correct and unbiased. This fast-paced environment requires strong organizational skills and the ability to manage stress effectively. Collaboration with editors and other reporters is essential to ensure stories meet publication standards and are submitted on time.

What is the difference between Newspaper Writing vs Journalism?

AspectNewspaper WritingJournalism
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in journalism, communications, or related fieldsRequires similar credentials, often with additional emphasis on reporting skills
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in newsrooms, editorial offices, or freelance settingsInvolves field reporting, interviews, and on-the-ground coverage
Industry UsageUsed within newspapers and print mediaBroader, including TV, radio, online media, and print
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for writing styles, deadlines, and reporting scope

Newspaper writing focuses on creating articles specifically for print or online newspapers, emphasizing concise, factual storytelling. Journalism encompasses a broader range of activities, including investigative reporting, fieldwork, and multimedia storytelling across various media platforms. While both roles require strong writing skills and similar credentials, journalism involves a wider scope of reporting and media engagement.

How much do newspaper writers get paid?

The average salary for newspaper writers in the United States ranges from $30,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the size of the publication. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced journalists or those working for major outlets can earn higher salaries. Many writers also supplement income through freelance work or by developing specialized skills such as multimedia reporting.

How to get a job as a newspaper writer?

To become a newspaper writer, develop strong writing and reporting skills through a degree in journalism or related fields, build a portfolio of published work, and gain experience through internships or freelance assignments. Familiarity with newsroom tools and deadlines is essential, and networking within the industry can help secure job opportunities.

What job categories do people searching Newspaper Writing jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Newspaper Writing jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Newspaper Writing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Newspaper Writing job openings:

Infographic showing various Newspaper Writing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,588 per year, or $13.7 per hour.

Intern, Foodist

Embarcadero Media Foundation

Palo Alto, CA โ€ข On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Part-time, Internship

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description:

Job Title: Embarcadero Media Intern – Food
Department: Foodist – appears in Palo Alto Weekly, The Almanac, Mountain View Voice, Redwood City Pulse
Reports To: Adrienne Mitchel / Food Editor
Location: Hybrid
Date: 3/3/25

About Us

Embarcadero Media Foundation is a nonprofit journalism group with three printed weekly newspapers, seven hyperlocal news websites and six email newsletters that serve a population of more than 500,000 people on the MidPeninsula and the East Bay’s Tri-Valley. We are looking for a motivated and passionate intern to join our food branch, The Peninsula Foodist, to inform, inspire and entertain our readers and the foodies of the Peninsula.

Articles for Peninsula Foodist appear on four websites – Palo Alto Online, The Almanac, Mountain View Voice and Redwood City Pulse – and may also appear in two print newspapers – Palo Alto Weekly and The Almanac. Peninsula Foodist has its own Instagram account, @peninsulafoodist, and weekly newsletter.

Job Summary

The Food Intern will dig into the Peninsula’s dining scene by producing food features (generally 800-1,200 words) and food blogs (generally 300-600 words). If the intern is interested in multimedia storytelling, the intern will also have the opportunity to take photos/videos and/or create Instagram reels. The ideal candidate will possess excellent interviewing, writing and storytelling skills and have a passion for food. The Food Intern will work closely with the Food Editor and the Six Fifty Editor at Embarcadero Media.

Key Responsibilities

  • Produce food features, including roundups, enterprise stories, profiles and Q&As. 
  • Produce food blogs, like restaurant openings and closings.
  • Keep an eye out for food stories while in the field and pitch relevant stories to the Food Editor
  • (optional) Produce food reels highlighting unique eateries.

Required Qualifications

  • Currently pursuing a degree in journalism or related field
  • An interest in the Peninsula’s food scene

Skills and Abilities

  • Strong communication and written skills
  • Ability to interview, craft a story and write in AP style
  • A curious mind and an ambitious spirit

Working Conditions

  • Part-time
  • Hybrid
  • May have to drive to meet sources and conduct interviews

Compensation

  • Unpaid

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter and three clips via the application.

Requirements: