Reporters and Correspondents
| Description |
OES Code: 34011 |
Under the direction of an editor, Newspaper Reporters gather and analyze facts about current events through interviews, investigations, or observations and write stories describing the events, background, meaning, and effects. They are assigned breaking news developments such as disasters, crime, and human interest. They take notes or use a tape recorder while covering a story. They check reference materials such as books, news files, and public records including criminal and civil court files for additional relevant facts. Basic tasks of reporters involve viewing events objectively, reporting them accurately, and explaining their significance.
Wages, California
| Entry-Level Hourly Wage |
$10.69 |
| 25th Percentile |
$12.05 |
| 50th Percentile |
$16.55 |
| 75th Percentile |
$28.75 |
Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey
Hours & Benefits
Newspaper Reporters work 37-1/2 to 50 hours, five days a week, often including weekends. Schedules depend on the newspaper's deadlines. Reporters on morning papers generally work from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., while some work from late afternoon until midnight. Those on evening papers generally start early in the morning and finish in the early afternoon. Exceptions are reporters on "special beats." Night shift pay differential is approximately $1.80 to $5/hr. extra per shift.
Employment Trends, California
| Employment 1998 |
5,600 |
| Projected Employment 2008 |
6,000 |
| Percent Change 1998-2008 |
7.1% |
| Separations 1998-2008 |
1,800 |
Employment Trends by California County
Working Conditions
Although electronic technology has brought change to the newspaper office, it has not diminished the need for reporters. Automation has eliminated the legendary clamor of the large news room in favor of a more high-tech
information producing operation.
Reporters often work unscheduled overtime, and must have a high energy level to keep up with the fast pace of this occupation. They must also be prepared to work under stressful situations such as earthquakes, fires, floods, shoot-outs, and other dangerous conditions.
Reporters work both indoors and outdoors, dealing with all kinds of people. They may work for long periods on unproductive leads. Editors have the option of revising, shortening, or deleting their stories from the newspaper.
Advancement
Reporters receive salary increases and more interesting or challenging assignments as they advance. After many years of experience, reporters with suitable talents may become columnists, special correspondents, or critics; those with executive ability can become editors or administrators.
Getting the Job & Other Information
A resume and a typed letter requesting an interview should be sent to editors, by name, several months prior to graduation. Names and addresses of news executives may be obtained from directories such as Editor and Publisher Yearbook, Ayer's Directory, and the California Newspaper Publisher's Association Newspaper Directory. Applicants should be prepared to furnish clean copies of their work, demonstrating the full range of their reporting history. Prospective reporters must have flexibility and determination to survive in the highly competitive journalism job market. Successful job seekers will be those who are willing to accept a position in any location, if it offers media experience and entry into a news organization.
For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank. |
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