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Policy Reporter Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

IL · On-site

OFFICIAL COURT REPORTER 2 Union: IBEW, LOCAL 134 Salary : $76,336.16 Location: COOK COUNTY ... Ability to review documents for proper form, content and agreement with policies. * Associates with ...

Business and Education reporter Are you a curious, ambitious journalist ready to develop expertise ... Follow state education policies when they have meaningful consequences for districts in the ...

Business and Education reporter Are you a curious, ambitious journalist ready to develop expertise ... Follow state education policies when they have meaningful consequences for districts in the ...

Business and Education reporter Are you a curious, ambitious journalist ready to develop expertise ... Follow state education policies when they have meaningful consequences for districts in the ...

Business and Education reporter Are you a curious, ambitious journalist ready to develop expertise ... Follow state education policies when they have meaningful consequences for districts in the ...

FOX Chicago is seeking a dynamic and driven Political Reporter to lead coverage of local, state ... Develop and maintain relationships with sources within government, campaigns, and policy ...

Political Reporter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60 - $72/hr

FOX Chicago is seeking a dynamic and driven Political Reporter to lead coverage of local, state ... Develop and maintain relationships with sources within government, campaigns, and policy ...

Political Reporter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60 - $72/hr

FOX Chicago is seeking a dynamic and driven Political Reporter to lead coverage of local, state ... Develop and maintain relationships with sources within government, campaigns, and policy ...

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Showing results 1-20

Policy Reporter information

See Illinois salary details

$14.5K

$41.1K

$75.1K

How much do policy reporter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy reporter in Illinois is $41,065.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,000.00 and $48,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a policy reporter do?

A Policy Reporter is a journalist who specializes in covering issues related to government policies, regulations, and public affairs. They research, investigate, and report on legislative developments, policy changes, and their impact on society. Policy Reporters often interview policymakers, experts, and stakeholders to provide balanced and informative news coverage. Their work helps inform the public and influence discussions around important policy topics.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a policy reporter?

To thrive as a Policy Reporter, you need strong research, writing, and analytical skills, typically supported by a degree in journalism, political science, or a related field. Familiarity with content management systems, data visualization tools, and newsroom software is often required. Exceptional interpersonal communication, curiosity, and the ability to distill complex policy issues for diverse audiences are standout soft skills. These capabilities are essential for producing accurate, insightful reporting that informs the public and influences policy discussions.

How does a policy reporter collaborate with government officials and subject matter experts?

Policy Reporters frequently interact with government officials, public relations teams, and subject matter experts to gather reliable information and provide context for their stories. This collaboration often involves attending press briefings, conducting interviews, and verifying statements to ensure accurate and balanced reporting. Building trustful relationships and maintaining professionalism are key, as these connections help reporters access timely insights and clarify complex policy details. Effective communication and a strong ethical approach are essential to navigate sensitive topics and provide readers with clear, factual news.

What is the difference between Policy Reporter vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy ReporterPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or related field; knowledge of policy issuesBachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, or related field; analytical skills
Work EnvironmentMedia outlets, news agencies, or online platformsGovernment agencies, think tanks, or research organizations
Employer & Industry UsageFocuses on reporting and communicating policy developmentsFocuses on analyzing, evaluating, and developing policy options

Policy Reporters primarily gather and communicate policy news to the public through media channels, while Policy Analysts evaluate and develop policy options for organizations or government bodies. Both roles require strong understanding of policy issues, but differ in their focus—reporting versus analysis.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Policy Reporter jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Policy Reporter job openings:

Infographic showing various Policy Reporter job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,065 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

OCJ - Official Court Reporter

Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois

IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF JUDGE
CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS  
COURT REPORTING SERVICES

                                                     
Job Title:      OFFICIAL COURT REPORTER 2
Union:          IBEW, LOCAL 134

Salary:          $76,336.16
Location:      COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS

PURPOSE
Provides stenographic services in order to produce a verbatim record at a high rate of speed.
Employees under this classification prepare transcripts from stenographic notes for which they are paid a separate page rate.  Preparing transcripts outside of regular working hours is not considered regular working hours for the purpose of calculating hours worked in a week.
As the second level of the Official Court Reporter title series, this level is distinguished from the entry level position by the minimum requirement of an unrestricted State of Illinois Certified Shorthand Reporter’s (CSR) License.  This class is distinguished from the higher level Official Court Reporter titles by the level of proficiency.
Work is performed under the direction of the chief judge, administrator and supervisor and is reviewed through personal conferences, general observation of work in progress and upon completion.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Responsible to the Chief Judge, the Administrator and the supervisor.
  • Must comply with all applicable statues, administrative orders, court rules and all regulations promulgated by the Chief Judges and any amendments thereof.
  • Provides stenographic services in order to produce a verbatim record at a high rate of speed.
  • Keeps a monthly report of all transcripts on order and files the original report as directed by the Chief Judge.
  • Prepares all transcripts in a timely manner.
  • Follows proper courtroom etiquette, including, but not limited to, impartiality to parties, and appropriate demeanor and dress as specified by the regulations and local rules.
  • Operates personal computer (i.e. stenographic software, word process and other applications.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
Must possess a Certified Shorthand Reporter’s (CSR) License issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations and pass the Official Court Reporter Proficiency (Part A) examination.  If the reporter possesses an unrestricted CSR License, they will be given one (1) year from hire to pass the Official Court Reporter Proficiency exam.
SELECTION FACTORS
            Knowledge and Skills
  • Knowledge and skill in performing stenographic duties and the ability to reduce the spoken word into a verbatim record at a high rate of speed.
  • Knowledge and skill in the use of personal computer and applications (i.e. stenographic software, word processing and other applications).
  • Working knowledge of office procedures, composition, records management and office communications.
  • Ability to organize work effectively and meet required deadlines and schedules.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to review documents for proper form, content and agreement with policies.
  • Associates with employees and the public in a pleasant, courteous and helpful manner.
  • Ability to be flexible and productively respond to change.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to retrieve files.
  • Ability to lift up to 20 pounds
  • Ability to sit for extended time periods.
Normal office working environment requiring telephone usage and ability to process written documents.
This position requires a pre-employment drug screening and criminal background check.  Applicants are advised that as a Drug Free Workplace, use of medical or recreational marijuana is prohibited and will disqualify a candidate from employment. 
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all required screening criteria.
Information about benefits available for this position may be found at SERS of Illinois
Please apply by filling out the application at our Career Page.
It is the policy of the Office of the Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County to provide equal opportunity in employment to all employees and applicants for employment.  No person is to be discriminated against in employment because of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation.
Revised 7/1/25
 

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