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True Crime Journalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Investigative Reporters and Editors Inc

Bachelor's Degree in Journalism, broadcasting, or equivalent work experience Local travel required. Experience: Five years on air-news reporting experience - specifically breaking news/true crime ...

dmg::media

Crime Reporter, US

New York, NY · On-site

About the Role The Crime Desk is the home of the Daily Mail's unrivalled true-crime exclusives ... We are looking for an experienced multimedia journalist with a passion for crime, courts, and ...

dmg::media

Crime Reporter, US

New York, NY

About the Role The Crime Desk is the home of the Daily Mail's unrivalled true-crime exclusives ... We are looking for an experienced multimedia journalist with a passion for crime, courts, and ...

Mile Higher Media

Senior Podcast Producer

Parker, TX · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Research and vet true crime cases, sourcing credible facts and details for episodes * Build and ... Background in journalism, criminal justice, or investigative research * Experience managing sponsor ...

MFI Technologies Incorporated

$65K - $80K/yr

Demonstrated strong knowledge and interest in true crime, investigative journalism and current events * Ability to multi-task and prioritize assignments * Strong interpersonal skills * Ability to ...

Fox

Freelance Producer, FOX Nation

New York, NY · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Experience with true crime and investigative programming preferred * Bachelor's degree in journalism or a related field of study preferred, or equivalent experience * Experience with crime and ...

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How much do true crime journalist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for true crime journalist in the United States is $60,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a true crime journalist?

A True Crime Journalist is a reporter or writer who investigates and documents real-life crimes, often delving into unsolved cases, criminal trials, or infamous incidents. They gather facts through research, interviews, and public records to create compelling narratives for articles, books, podcasts, or documentaries. True Crime Journalists must balance storytelling with accuracy and sensitivity, especially when covering tragic or controversial events. Their work helps inform the public, raise awareness about criminal justice issues, and sometimes even aid in solving cases.

What are some common challenges faced by true crime journalists when reporting on active investigations?

True crime journalists often encounter the challenge of balancing the public's right to know with the integrity of ongoing investigations. They must be careful not to disclose sensitive information that could hinder police work or compromise sources. Additionally, building trust with law enforcement and victims' families while adhering to strict ethical standards is essential. Navigating legal considerations, such as libel and privacy laws, is also a critical aspect of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a true crime journalist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a True Crime Journalist, you need investigative research skills, a background in journalism or communications, and strong ethics regarding sensitive subject matter. Familiarity with digital research tools, audio/video recording equipment, and editing software is often required. Persistence, discretion, and the ability to build trust with sources are critical soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate, responsible, and compelling storytelling while maintaining the integrity and safety of sources and subjects.

What is the difference between True Crime Journalist vs Crime Reporter?

AspectTrue Crime JournalistCrime Reporter
CredentialsJournalism degree, investigative skillsJournalism degree, reporting experience
Work EnvironmentResearch, interviews, writing, sometimes on-siteNewsrooms, on-scene reporting, live updates
Industry UsagePublishing books, articles, documentariesNews outlets, TV stations, online media

While both roles involve reporting on crime, a True Crime Journalist focuses on in-depth investigations, storytelling, and long-form content about criminal cases. A Crime Reporter typically covers ongoing news events, providing timely updates. The two roles share skills but differ in scope and depth of coverage.

How do I become a true crime journalist?

To become a true crime journalist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field, along with strong writing and investigative skills. Gaining experience through internships, building a portfolio of work, and developing knowledge of criminal justice and legal processes are also important steps in pursuing this specialized journalism career.

How much do true crime journalists make?

True crime journalists' salaries vary based on experience, publication, and location, but they typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually. Freelance writers may earn per article, while those working for media outlets often have salaried positions that include reporting, research, and storytelling skills.

What cities are hiring for True Crime Journalist jobs?

Cities with the most True Crime Journalist job openings:

What states have the most True Crime Journalist jobs?

States with the most job openings for True Crime Journalist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to True Crime Journalist jobs?

For True Crime Journalist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

True Crime Journalist jobs near you
Infographic showing various True Crime Journalist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,979 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Investigative Reporter - True Crime

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Investigative Reporters and Editors Inc
Non-Profits • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Investigative Reporters and Editors Incexternal

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

Are you obsessed with the \"why\" behind the headlines?Do you find yourself digging through court records at midnight or tracking digital footprints to find the one detail everyone else missed? Arizona’s Family is looking for an Investigative True Crime Reporter who doesn't just cover cases—they own them. We need a powerhouse storyteller who can lead our \"True Crime Arizona\" franchise across every platform, from high-stakes live streaming shows and deep-dive podcasts to raw, vlog-style digital originals. If you’re a savvy investigator who thrives on the urgency of breaking news and the nuance of long-form justice, we want to talk to you.

What You’ll Do

  • Drive the \"True Crime Arizona\" franchise:Act as the captain of our true crime ship, leading the research, development, and execution of our weekly one-hour live streaming show.
  • Master multi-platform storytelling:Transition seamlessly between traditional reporting, raw \"vlog-style\" long‑form digital content, and immersive podcasting.
  • Own the digital space:Curate, optimize, and schedule high-performing content for YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram (because you know that’s where the audience lives).
  • Build a community:Engage directly with your audience in real-time chats and social comments to turn viewers into a loyal, interactive true‑crime community.
  • Cultivate deep sources:Maintain and grow relationships with victims' families, legal experts, private investigators, and PIOs to get the tips that put us ahead.
  • Break down the bench:Work with attorneys and former law enforcement to translate complex charges and trial maneuvers into compelling, relatable content.
  • Collaborate with the crew:Partner with editors and directors to craft \"Behind the Story\" hits and news previews that drive traffic to our streaming platforms.

What You Bring

  • A digital-first heart:You understand that social media isn't an afterthought—it’s the engine. You’re comfortable filming your own reels, screen-recording pool feeds, and optimizing YouTube metadata.
  • Investigative grit:You have a proven track record of digging into trials, cold cases, and breaking crime news with urgency and accuracy.
  • The \"Ad-Lib\" Factor:You can think on your feet and provide deep context during unscripted live broadcasts without breaking a sweat.
  • Radical empathy:You know how to interview a grieving family member or a high-profile expert with the same level of respect, ethics, and integrity.
  • Technical savvy:You’re comfortable (or quick to learn) navigating ENPS, BitCentral, and various news sources to hunt down the perfect b-roll and soundbites.
  • Leadership mindset:You’re ready to steer the team, making quick calls when things go sideways and keeping the show moving forward.
  • True crime fluency:You’re already following the biggest trials and documentaries, and you know exactly what the true crime audience is craving next.

Why You’ll Love It Here

  • Creative Freedom:We’re leaning into raw, \"vlog-style\" storytelling and experimental digital formats - you’ll have the room to innovate and \"take people with you\" on the hunt.
  • Real Impact:Your work helps provide a voice to victims and brings clarity to the most complex legal cases in Arizona.
  • A Digital Powerhouse:You’ll be part of a team that is leading the way in the streaming and social space, not just following old‑school news models.
  • Career-Defining Ownership:This isn't just a reporting job; it’s a chance to be the face and voice of a major media franchise.

Education:
Bachelor's Degree in Journalism, broadcasting, or equivalent work experience

Local travel required.

Experience:

Five years on air-news reporting experience – specifically breaking news/true crime content. Journalistic skills editorial judgment with knowledge of editing and photography skills, or equivalent work experience

Specific Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Ability to work under pressure, adapt to change, meet deadlines, work well as a team and independently. Exceptional communication skills and excellent knowledge of current events

Ready to lead the investigation and tell the stories that matter? Let’s create something unforgettable.

About Gray Media

Gray Media, or Gray, is a multimedia company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, formally known as Gray Television, Inc. The company is the nation's largest owner of top‑rated local television stations and digital assets serving 113 television markets that collectively reach approximately 36 percent of US television households. The portfolio includes 77 markets with the top‑rated television station and 100 markets with the first and/or second‑highest‑rated television station, as well as the largest Telemundo Affiliate group with 43 markets totaling nearly 1.5 million Hispanic TV Households. The company also owns Gray Digital Media, a full‑service digital agency offering national and local clients digital marketing strategies with the most advanced digital products and services. Gray's additional media properties include video production companies Raycom Sports, Tupelo Media Group, and PowerNation Studios, and studio production facilities Assembly Atlanta and Third Rail Studios.

About KTVK/KPHO

Home to CBS 5, 3TV and Arizona’s Family Sports, Arizona's Family produces more than 100+ hours of local news and programming every week. CBS 5 is Arizona’s Most‑Watched Television Station, driven by the power of CBS programming and sports, while 3TV is one of the strongest Independent television stations in the country with its highly‑rated morning show, Good Morning Arizona. And the reach of Arizona's Family doesn't stop with linear television. Azfamily.com is the market's top performer in local multi‑platform unique users. It is also home to Arizona's Family Originals. Our in‑house original content production team works on several long‑form programs, documentaries, docuseries, and original podcasts, including True Crime Arizona, which is nearing 2 million downloads.

Arizona’s Family Sports is home to the state’s premiere sports franchises including the Arizona Cardinals, Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Mercury, Phoenix Rising and the Arizona Interscholastic Association high school state championships.

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