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Sports Writer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Gopuff

CA - Industry

Walnut, CA · On-site

With Gopuff, you don't have to worry about which restaurant to go to or where your next ride will take you. It's quick and easy to earn on your time, delivering the essentials people need. Want to ...

Olathe

Sports Instructor

Simi Valley, CA

$15.50 - $16.50/hr

Sports Instructors demonstrate techniques and methods of participation as well as evaluate the ... Must be proficient in verbal and written English language. Environmental or Physical Demands:

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Sports Writer information

See California salary details

$5

$36

$90

How much do sports writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports writer in California is $36.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $58.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sports writer?

A Sports Writer creates articles or copy content about sports events for digital and print media publications. As a Sports Writer, your main responsibility is researching athletes, teams, and their stories. You may also attend press conferences, games, or other events held by sports organizations. Sports Writers may only write about specific sports, but it is not unusual for one to cover the entire industry for a smaller outlet. As news outlets now rely heavily on freelance writers, you may not work for a specific publication at all. While your exact duties may differ depending on the position, your job is to write compelling news stories that will inform and engage your readers and draw them to your employer’s publication.

What are some typical challenges sports writers face when covering live events?

Sports writers often face tight deadlines and rapidly changing circumstances when covering live events. They must quickly process and analyze the action, conduct interviews with athletes or coaches in high-pressure environments, and produce accurate, engaging content on short notice. Balancing objectivity while delivering compelling storytelling, as well as managing logistics like travel and access to press areas, are common challenges in this role.

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

To thrive as a Sports Writer, you need excellent writing, research, and storytelling abilities, typically supported by a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with content management systems, social media platforms, and digital editing tools is often required. Strong interviewing skills, adaptability, and the ability to work under tight deadlines help distinguish successful sports writers. These skills ensure accurate, engaging, and timely coverage that resonates with audiences and keeps them informed.

What is the difference between Sports Writer vs Sports Journalist?

AspectSports WriterSports Journalist
CredentialsTypically a degree in journalism, communications, or related fieldSimilar credentials, often with additional reporting or media training
Work EnvironmentNewspapers, magazines, online media, freelanceBroadcast media, online outlets, print publications
Industry UsageUsed interchangeably in many contexts, but Sports Journalist often implies reporting and on-camera workBroader role including reporting, interviewing, and multimedia content

While both roles involve covering sports topics, a Sports Writer primarily focuses on creating written content such as articles and features. A Sports Journalist may engage in reporting, interviewing, and multimedia storytelling, often in broadcast or digital formats. The roles overlap significantly, but Sports Journalists typically have a broader scope of media skills and on-camera presence.

Are sports writers in demand?

Sports writers are in demand in media outlets, online platforms, and sports organizations, especially those with strong writing skills and knowledge of sports. However, competition is high, and job availability can vary based on the media industry’s economic health and digital content trends.

How much do sports writers get paid?

Sports writers' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and the employer, but the median annual wage in the United States is around $45,000 to $60,000. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced writers or those working for major outlets can earn over $80,000 annually. Many sports writers also supplement income through freelance work or by building a strong online presence.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Sports Writer jobs in California?

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For Sports Writer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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What cities in California are hiring for Sports Writer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Sports Writer job openings:

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Sports Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sports Writer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,899 per year, or $36.5 per hour.

Sports Producer/Writer _ Part-Time

Nexstar Media Group

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$33.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 24 days ago

Nexstar Media Group rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 106 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 78 rated media

Job description

Sports Producer/Writer - part time
KTLA is looking for an experienced part-time sports producer/writer
• Candidates must demonstrate a passion for sports storytelling and not just scores, identifying the storylines and moments which make sports amazing... looking at sports content in a way that satisfies our news broadcasts and our multiple digital platforms
• Working weekends-and a passion for those big sports weekends is a must
Responsibilities:
• Produce sportscasts, half hour sports shows, write and edit for broadcast and digital
• Oversee and organize production elements of sportscasts, half-hour shows, and specials
• Work closely with Executive Producers, Producers, Reporters and the Assignment Desk to generate content on broadcast, digital, and all KTLA platforms
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor in sports and news.
Qualifications:
• Bachelor's Degree preferred
• Two years of local TV sports line producing experience preferred
• Willingness to work weekends, a must since these are the biggest sports days
• Knowledge of Adobe Premiere and ENPS a plus
• Desktop editing skills required
• Strong organizational and communication skills needed
• Positive attitude; ability to work under pressure and creativity a must
Compensation - $33.50/hr+ commensurate with skills and experience
KTLA will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring.
#LI-Onsite

What Nexstar Media Group employees say

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About Nexstar Media Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Headquartered in Irving, Texas, Nexstar Media Group, Inc. is the largest local broadcast television group in the United States and one of the world’s leading diversified media companies. In June 2023, Nexstar marked 27 years of excellence in local programming and service since Perry A. Sook founded the company. Nexstar owns, operates, programs or provides sales and other services to 200 broadcast stations (including partner stations) and their related low power and digital multicast signals reaching 116 markets or more than 68% of all U.S. television households. Coupled with a growing portfolio of digital media marketing, advertising and content management platforms, Nexstar delivers powerful and innovative digital solutions and services to local and national media companies, advertisers, agencies and brands.

Industry

Broadcasting

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1996

Social media

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