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Writer Reporter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

City Hall reporter San Francisco, CA The San Francisco Chronicle is looking for an aggressive ... We're seeking a self-starter who has strong writing skills, is comfortable providing and taking ...

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

City Hall reporter San Francisco, CA The San Francisco Chronicle is looking for an aggressive ... We're seeking a self-starter who has strong writing skills, is comfortable providing and taking ...

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

City Hall reporter San Francisco, CA The San Francisco Chronicle is looking for an aggressive ... We're seeking a self-starter who has strong writing skills, is comfortable providing and taking ...

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

City Hall reporter San Francisco, CA The San Francisco Chronicle is looking for an aggressive ... We're seeking a self-starter who has strong writing skills, is comfortable providing and taking ...

City Hall Reporter

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

City Hall reporter San Francisco, CA The San Francisco Chronicle is looking for an aggressive ... We're seeking a self-starter who has strong writing skills, is comfortable providing and taking ...

Reporter

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.50/hr

Write clear, accurate, and engaging stories that adhere to editorial standards * Conduct thorough ... The Vacaville Reporter, a subsidiary of MediaNews Group, is your source for local news in Vacaville ...

Digital Reporter

Irvine, CA · On-site

$29.33 - $36.54/hr

Reporter will create, write, edit, and deliver polished video content for digital platforms. This role requires a quick turnaround to ensure timely content for social media, capturing and sharing ...

New

Reporter

San Diego, CA

$33.65 - $36.06/hr

The San Diego Union-Tribune is seeking an ambitious, accomplished, and tenacious reporter to join ... Mastery of various journalistic writing forms, including narrative and explanatory styles, with ...

Reporter

San Diego, CA · On-site

$33.65 - $36.06/hr

The San Diego Union-Tribune is seeking an ambitious, accomplished, and tenacious reporter to join ... Mastery of various journalistic writing forms, including narrative and explanatory styles, with ...

Reporter

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.50/hr

Write clear, accurate, and engaging stories that adhere to editorial standards * Conduct thorough ... The Vacaville Reporter, a subsidiary of MediaNews Group, is your source for local news in Vacaville ...

Showing results 41-60

Writer Reporter information

See California salary details

$13

$38

$65

How much do writer reporter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 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 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.

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 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.

Infographic showing various Writer Reporter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 54% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 43% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,940 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

Court Reporter (Steno/Voice Writing) - As Needed

Merced, CA • On-site

$235.04 - $366.08/day

Part-time, Contractor

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

CLASSIFICATION DESCRIPTION COMPENSATION: $352 Full Day $226 Half Day **Hiring Incentive** $2,000 payable upon completion of the Introductory Period. DEFINITION Under general supervision, this specialized clerical level position records and transcribes verbatim stenographic accounts of official court proceedings and performs other duties, as assigned. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This is the entry and journey level of the Court Reporter series.

This class is distinguished from the higher-level Senior Court Reporter class in that the latter is responsible for leading and coordinating the work of Court Reporters and performing the more difficult work assigned to the series. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment for this classification.

Other duties may be required and assigned. Records verbatim testimony and court proceedings (including exhibits, evidence, speakers, etc.) using stenographic or voice writing equipment; asks judge for clarification of instructions, orders, or other actions to properly note the official record. Reads back all or portions of the official court proceedings upon instruction from the judge

Prepares accurate printed or magnetic media transcripts (including ASCII disks); reviews and certifies printed transcripts of court proceedings. Prepares transcript billings to the court. Maintains a variety of electronic and paper files of that portion of the court record for which the reporter is directly responsible, prepares daily transcripts as needed, and provides transcripts of proceedings on request of parties or by order of the court within deadlines.

Research legal reference materials for court reporting clarification. Responds appropriately to situations. Follow verbal and written directions.

Must be able to be flexible with work hours (ex: court proceedings, grand jury hearings) and work past 5:00p.m. when needed. Attend training as offered and/or directed

Travel to off-site courts, as needed. Maintain professional appearance and demeanor. Follow Court Rules and Regulations, Safety Procedures, and Court Code of Ethics.

Must work well under pressure, meeting multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines. Must, at all times, demonstrate cooperative behavior with co-workers, and management. Other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY DUTIES None WORK HOURS Part time (as needed by the Division) MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Education: Educational level equivalent to a high school diploma or GED Experience: Any combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities Certification/License Required: Possession of Certified Shorthand Reporter's license through the use of stenography, voice writing, or both, issued by the Court Reporters Board of California, in accordance with Government Code Section 69948 Possession of Certified Realtime Reporter (CRR) issued by the NCRA is highly desirable A valid class C California driver's license required or self-arranged transportation; driver must have an acceptable driving record; the requirement will be reviewed on a position basis in accordance with ADA regulations. Necessary Employment Standards Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Provide, maintain, and use personal equipment for reporting and transcribing Stenographically report or voice write at the speed and accuracy specified for licensing by the State of California Legal, medical and administrative terminology, phraseology, documents and procedures, as well as courtroom procedures and protocol Effective communication skills - verbal and written - in person, over the telephone and in writing with public, attorneys, co-workers, supervisors, managers, commissioners and judges; knowledge of correct English usage, vocabulary, spelling and punctuation Analyze data, interpret directions, procedures and regulations, and develop appropriate responses Must work well under pressure, meeting multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines Maintain confidential information in accordance with legal standards and/or other regulations Possess excellent organizational and listening skills; work independently and prioritize work Establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public, co-workers, supervisors, judges, commissioners, independent contractors and other management; work effectively with and assist individuals of various ages and diverse cultural backgrounds; deal tactfully and courteously with the public and legal representatives in providing information about court functions and proceedings Be dependable, punctual and have good attendance Must successfully complete fingerprinting and Criminal Record Background check Desired Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Appellate court procedures knowledge and/or experience Familiarity with local attorneys in order to properly identify Realtime reporting knowledge and/or experience ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL & MENTAL DEMANDS Data Utilization: Requires the ability to review, classify, categorize, prioritize, and/or analyze data; includes exercising discretion in determining data classification, and in referencing such analysis to established standards for the purpose of recognizing actual or probable interactive effects and relationships. Human Interaction: Requires the ability to apply principles of persuasion and/or influence over others in coordinating activities of a project, program, or designated area of responsibility.

Equipment, Machinery, Tools, and Materials Utilization: Requires the ability to operate, maneuver, and/or control the actions of equipment, machinery, tools, and/or materials used in performing essential functions. Verbal Aptitude: Requires the ability to utilize a wide variety of reference, descriptive, and/or advisory data, and information. Mathematical Aptitude: Requires the ability to perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division; the ability to calculate decimals and percentages; the ability to utilize principles of fractions; and the ability to interpret graphs.

Functional Reasoning: Requires the ability to apply principles of influence systems, such as motivation, incentive, and leadership, and to exercise independent judgment to apply facts and principles for developing approaches and techniques to resolve problems. Situational Reasoning: Requires the ability to exercise judgment, decisiveness, and creativity in situations involving the evaluation of information against sensory, judgmental, or subjective criteria, as opposed to that which is clearly measurable or verifiable. Physical Ability: Strength, dexterity, coordination, and vision to use a keyboard, computer monitor, and other office equipment on a daily basis and for extended periods of time Fine finger manipulations, dexterity, and coordination to handle files and single pieces of paper Forceful and repetitive gripping, grasping, and pinching Occasional lifting and carrying of objects weighing up to 40 lbs.

Frequent reaching for items on shelves, above, at, and below desk/shoulder level Exert up to 20 lbs. of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 lbs. of force frequently, and/or negligible amount of force constantly to move, torque, twist, push, and pull objects Frequently sit for extended periods; frequently stand for extended periods; and frequently walk, move, bend, stoop, lift, and stretch Able to move to different locations such as, but not limited to: courtrooms, clerk's office, various departments, other court facilities, and desk assignments based on the operational needs of the Court Able to traverse inside and outside over uneven ground and pavement Perform repetitive writing, typing, copying Employees are regularly required to verbally communicate both in person and by telephone Corrected hearing and vision to normal range Sensory Requirements: Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate colors or shades of colors, sounds, and visual cues or signals.

Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally. Environmental Factors: Essential functions are regularly performed without exposure to adverse environmental conditions. BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS: Convictions, depending on the type, number, and date, may be disqualifying.

Court employees shall be subject to a modified background investigation and fingerprinting. False statements or omission of facts regarding background or employment history may result in disqualification or dismissal.