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Writer Reporter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Night Reporter

El Segundo, CA

$26 - $35.50/hr

Report and write breaking and trending news stories across a variety of subject areas, including ... Reporters must have a valid driver's license and access to a vehicle in good working condition ...

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Showing results 1-20

Writer Reporter information

See California salary details

$13

$38

$65

How much do writer reporter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for writer reporter in California is $38.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.46 and $46.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a writer reporter do?

A Writer Reporter researches, investigates, and writes news stories or articles for newspapers, magazines, websites, or other media outlets. They conduct interviews, verify facts, and present information in a clear and engaging manner for their audience. Writer Reporters may cover specific beats like politics, sports, or entertainment, and often work under tight deadlines. Their role is essential in keeping the public informed about current events and issues.

What is the difference between Writer Reporter vs Journalist?

AspectWriter ReporterJournalist
CredentialsTypically a degree in journalism, communications, or related fieldOften requires similar degrees or certifications in journalism or media
Work EnvironmentMedia outlets, newspapers, online platforms, freelanceNews organizations, TV stations, online media
Employer & Industry UsageUsed interchangeably in many contexts, focusing on reporting and writingBroader term including investigative, broadcast, and print journalism

Writer Reporters primarily focus on researching, writing, and reporting news stories for various media outlets. Journalists encompass a wider range of roles, including investigative reporting, broadcast journalism, and feature writing. While both roles require strong writing skills and journalism credentials, Writer Reporters often work in more flexible or freelance settings, whereas Journalists may be employed full-time by media organizations. Understanding these nuances helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the media industry.

How does a writer reporter typically collaborate with editors and other team members to produce high-quality stories?

Writer Reporters regularly work hand-in-hand with editors, photographers, and sometimes graphic designers to ensure stories are accurate, engaging, and visually appealing. Editors often provide guidance on story angles, review drafts, and suggest revisions to strengthen clarity and impact. Collaboration may also include brainstorming sessions, coordinating on deadlines, and participating in editorial meetings to align on coverage priorities. This teamwork helps maintain journalistic standards and ensures the final piece meets both editorial guidelines and audience needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a writer reporter?

To thrive as a Writer Reporter, you need strong research, interviewing, and writing skills, often supported by a degree in journalism or communications. Familiarity with content management systems (CMS), digital publishing tools, and sometimes multimedia editing software is typically expected. Curiosity, persistence, and excellent time management are crucial soft skills that help uncover stories and meet tight deadlines. These skills ensure accurate, engaging reporting and timely delivery of news that informs and impacts the public.
Infographic showing various Writer Reporter job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,940 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

$112K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Description Superior Court of California County of Contra Costa Announces an open recruitment for: Court Reporter $112,051.47- $129,713.17 annually* *Base salary only; additional pay differentials may apply, see benefits section below. Final Filing - Continuous The Superior Court of Contra Costa County is conducting an open recruitment to fill Court Reporter vacancies. Individuals selected must be available to be assigned to any court location

An eligibility list will be established as a result of this recruitment and may be used to fill other vacancies in the future. Only incumbents who meet the minimum qualifications by the final filing date may apply. Examples of Duties The individual appointed to this position will perform a wide variety of duties including, but not limited to: Attend Court sessions as assigned and make verbatim stenographic records of the proceedings, often of a technical nature and at a high rate of speed; Provide immediate read back of all or portions of the record upon request; Prepare printed or magnetic media transcripts of court proceedings; Utilize computer-aided or manual transcription to prepare transcripts in accordance with prescribed formats and deadlines; Review, certify and file printed transcripts of court proceedings and provide daily transcripts as needed; Be real time capable and provide real time services upon request; Provide, at own expense, all necessary equipment and materials to produce the verbatim record, pursuant to California Rules of Court, Rule 10.810; Maintain a variety of paper and electronic files; and Perform other related duties as required

The individuals appointed to these positions must be able to maintain a positive and professional attitude and possess good interpersonal and oral communication skills. Timely communication and punctual attendance is essential. Minimum/Desirable Qualifications The IDEAL CANDIDATE should have the following knowledge and abilities: Knowledge of: Legal terminology; basic medical and other specialized and technical terminology required for court proceedings and protocol; Principles, practices, methods and techniques of short hand reporting; Proper English usage, grammar, punctuation and spelling; Transcript production procedures and practices; and State and local court rules, procedures and protocols.

Ability to: Record shorthand at a minimum of 200 words per minute with 97.5% accuracy; Provide real-time services upon request; Plan and organize work to meet deadlines; Establish and maintain positive working relationships with judges, court staff, attorneys, and the general public; Respond timely and appropriately to inquiries and requests; Maintain responsibility for providing court reporting and transcription equipment; Work independently as well as working closely with others; and Comply with applicable court procedures including Court Procedure 38 - Paperless Steno Writers and Storage of Court Reporter Notes on ACORN. Pay Differentials: In addition to the base salary listed above, Court Reporters are eligible for the following pay differentials: National Realtime Certification: Court Reporters who are nationally certified as a Certified Realtime Reporter (CRR) will provide real time services upon request and be paid a differential of 10% to apply all the time. Similarly, Court Reporters who are nationally certified as a Registered Professional Reporter (RPR) will provide real time services upon request and be paid a differential of 7.5% to apply all the time

Court Reporters in the bargaining unit who are nationally certified through NCRA as a Certified Realtime Captioner (CRC) will provide CART services upon request and will be paid an additional differential of 3% to apply all the time. State Realtime Certification: Court Reporters who are certified by the Deposition Reporter Association as a California Certified Realtime Reporter (CCRR) will provide real time services upon request and be paid a differential of 5% to apply all the time. Basic Readability: Court Reporters who take and pass the Court's Realtime Basic Readability Test will provide real time services upon request and be paid a differential of 5% to apply all the time unless and until the Court Reporter becomes eligible for the National Certification differential.

The Basic Readability Test will be offered to court reporters twice a year in March and October. Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART): Court Reporters who volunteer to provide CART services for ADA accommodations will be paid $100.00 for a full day and $50.00 for a half day that he or she provides CART services. For purposes of this section, half day shall be defined as any portion of a morning session (between 8am and 12:30pm) or afternoon session (between 1 pm and 5pm) on any given date

With the exception of the CART differential, the pay differentials are not cumulative, which means that the highest differential available is 10% of base salary. Minimum Qualifications: Possession of a high school diploma, a GED equivalency certificate or a high school proficiency certificate; Possession of a current Certified Shorthand Reporter (CSR) certificate issued by the California Department of Consumer Affairs Court Reporter Board; Operating system/equipment compatible with ACORN Notes Storage System; and Highly Desirable Qualifications: Communication Access Real-time Translation (CART) certified; NCRA Certified Realtime Reporter (CRR); Registered Professional Reporter (RPR); Registered Merit Reporter (RMR); and Real-time capable and able to provide real time services upon request. Supplemental Information Interested individuals must complete a Court application and provide a valid email address.

A cover letter and detailed resume are not required but recommended. To apply, go to: http://www.cc-courts.org: and click on the Job Opportunities tab. After submitting your application all subsequent communications will be via email

Please add contracosta.courts.ca.gov and info@governmentjobs.com to your email address book to ensure delivery of emails. For additional information email: jobs@contracosta.courts.ca.gov. Depending on the number of applications received, an application evaluation committee may be convened to review and evaluate each candidate's application, and those deemed to be best qualified will be invited to continue in the selection process

The court reserves the right to make revisions to the testing process in accordance with the Court Personnel Plan and accepted selection practices. GENERAL INFORMATION Conditions of Employment Successful completion of fingerprint and a criminal record background check is required prior to appointment and is a condition of employment. All employees of the court who operate a vehicle on court business must certify they possess a valid California Driver's License and required levels of automobile insurance.

Convictions Felony and misdemeanor convictions MAY BE disqualifying for employment with the court. The court will assess the nature and gravity of the offense, the time that has elapsed since the offense was committed, and the nature of the job duties to be performed. Employment Eligibility: In accordance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, all persons hired after November 6, 1986, are required to present to the Court, at the time of appointment, original documents which show satisfactory proof of: 1.) identity and 2.) U.S

Citizenship or a legal authorization to work in the United States. Union Representative This position is represented by SEIU Local 1021. Applicants with Disabilities: Reasonable accommodations will be made so applicants with disabilities may participate in the recruitment process.

Please advise Superior Court Human Resources of special needs in advance. The Court is an equal opportunity employer. The Court provides equal employment opportunity at all times and does not discriminate in violation of applicable law.