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If you’ve Googled “journalist job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over:
A list of bullet points. Some vague responsibilities. Maybe a few required skills. That’s it.
But here’s the problem—those kinds of job posts don’t attract great journalists. They attract generic applicants. And if you’re serious about hiring someone who can uncover real stories, interview with nuance, and write with clarity and credibility…
You need a job post that reflects that standard.
The best journalists aren’t just looking for a paycheck. They’re looking for purpose, stories that matter, and editors who respect the craft. So if your job post reads like legal boilerplate, they’ll scroll right past you.
That’s why in this guide, we’re not just giving you a plug-and-play template—we’re teaching you how to write a journalist job description that actually connects with strong candidates.
Before we get into examples, if you haven’t already, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/. It walks through everything you need to know—from structure to tone to candidate psychology.
Now, let’s start with the basics: What does a journalist really do?
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
What Does a Journalist Actually Do? - The Responsibilities
At its core, a journalist investigates, verifies, and tells stories that matter.
They might cover breaking news, interview subject matter experts, attend press conferences, analyze data, or craft long-form features—depending on the publication and beat. But more than that, journalists are truth-seekers. They turn chaos into clarity. They ask tough questions, chase leads, and write with both accuracy and urgency.
A great journalist isn’t just a good writer—they’re curious, skeptical, and driven by a sense of public responsibility. Whether they’re reporting for a local paper or a digital-first outlet, the goal is the same: deliver facts that inform, stories that engage, and insights that spark conversation.
So when you’re hiring a journalist, you’re not just hiring someone to “write content.” You’re hiring someone to represent your brand’s voice, ethics, and editorial standards. That’s a big deal.
Two Great Journalist Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: Experienced Journalist Job Description
📰 Job Title: Senior Journalist – Tech & Innovation Desk
📍 Location: Remote (US-based) | Full-Time
💰 Salary: $65,000–$80,000/year + Benefits
🎥 Meet Your Future Editor (2-min intro video): Watch here
Who We Are
At Circuit Breaker, we’re not just reporting on technology—we’re telling the human stories behind the breakthroughs. From climate tech startups and AI regulation to the founders reshaping how we live and work, our editorial team covers innovation with nuance and depth. We reach over 1.5 million readers every month, and we’re growing fast.
What You’ll Do
As a Senior Journalist on our Tech & Innovation Desk, you’ll cover some of the most exciting and urgent developments in the startup world. You’ll:
- Write 3–5 original articles weekly (mix of short pieces and 1 long-form/month)
- Interview founders, researchers, engineers, and investors
- Attend live press events and virtual roundtables
- Dig into pitch decks, funding announcements, and product launches
- Collaborate closely with editors for story development and final polish
What We’re Looking For
- 3+ years of journalism experience (tech, business, or science reporting preferred)
- A strong portfolio of bylined articles (3–5 recent clips)
- Excellent reporting instincts and fact-checking ability
- Sharp writing style that’s clear, insightful, and accessible
- Comfortable juggling multiple deadlines and publishing fast
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You’ll join a tight-knit editorial team that values integrity, voice, and impact. We don’t chase clicks—we chase clarity. If you’re someone who loves turning complex topics into must-read stories and wants to be part of a publication that respects your craft, this is your place.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary + annual performance bonus
- Fully remote work setup with quarterly in-person meetups
- 20 PTO days + paid sick leave + company holidays
- $1,000/year learning & development stipend
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Optional 4-day workweek pilot (based on performance)
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to fairly assess all candidates—no résumés lost in a black hole. Click below to complete a quick writing assessment and show us how you think and write.
👉 [Insert application link here]
We reply to every applicant.
✅ Option 2: Entry-Level Journalist Job Description
📰 Job Title: Staff Writer – General Assignment (Open to Early-Career Candidates)
📍 Location: Hybrid – NYC (2 days/week)
💰 Salary: $45,000–$55,000/year + Benefits
🎥 Watch This First (1-min welcome video from your editor): Watch here
Who We Are
The Five Borough Beat is a local news startup with a bold mission: tell the real stories of New Yorkers—without the spin. We’re proudly independent, community-powered, and focused on giving voice to the neighborhoods most mainstream outlets overlook. From immigrant-owned businesses in Queens to city council debates in the Bronx, we dig deep and report honestly.
The Role
We’re hiring a full-time staff writer to join our general assignment desk. You’ll support breaking stories, attend local events, interview everyday New Yorkers, and collaborate with senior reporters. No formal newsroom experience? That’s okay. We’ll train you.
You’ll:
- Cover 2–3 local stories per week
- Attend community board meetings, events, and press briefings
- Interview sources and write short- to mid-length articles
- Learn how to verify facts, shape leads, and edit collaboratively
What We’re Looking For
- Passionate storytellers with clean, engaging writing
- Student newspaper, Substack, blog, or freelance experience is a plus
- Someone who meets deadlines and thrives on feedback
- A strong sense of integrity and curiosity
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
We don’t just publish content—we develop journalists. You’ll get mentorship, real editorial guidance, and the freedom to find your voice. Whether you’re fresh out of school or switching careers, this is a place where hustle is noticed and potential is nurtured.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Weekly editorial mentorship sessions
- Paid training program + access to journalism workshops
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Commuter benefits + monthly MetroCard reimbursement
- 15 days PTO + paid sick leave
- Team lunches, newsroom socials, and flexible hours
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to give all applicants a fair shot—no resumes lost or ghosted. Apply below, complete a quick written exercise, and we’ll get back to you.
👉 [Insert application link here]
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Why These Journalist Job Descriptions Work
Both the experienced and entry-level job descriptions are structured to connect with real people—not just tick boxes. Here’s why they work:
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Contextual
- Instead of saying “Journalist” or “Staff Writer,” we use “Senior Journalist – Tech & Innovation Desk” and “Staff Writer – General Assignment.”
- The titles immediately tell candidates what beat they’ll cover, what level the role is, and even hint at the newsroom culture. That filters out the wrong candidates and pulls in the right ones.
✅ 2. Each Post Opens With a Warm, Human Intro
- Right after the logistics (title, salary, location), candidates get a short “Watch This First” video link from the hiring editor.
- This builds instant trust. It shows there’s a real person on the other side, not a faceless ATS. Most job posts don’t do this—and that’s a missed opportunity.
✅ 3. The “About Us” Section Tells a Story, Not Just a Mission
- In both cases, the company isn’t just described—it’s positioned.
Circuit Breaker is a fast-growing tech publication with a mission to explain complex topics.
The Five Borough Beat is a hyperlocal NYC outlet focused on underrepresented communities. - These details help candidates picture the work they’ll be doing and who they’ll be doing it for.
✅ 4. Responsibilities Are Framed Around Purpose
- We don’t just list tasks—we describe why they matter.
“Write 3–5 stories” becomes “turn complex topics into must-read stories.”
“Attend events” becomes “interview everyday New Yorkers and elevate unheard voices.” - That gives meaning to the role—and that’s what great candidates respond to.
✅ 5. Perks & Benefits Are Listed Separately
- Candidates care about clarity. By separating “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” from “Perks & Benefits,” we give them emotional and practical reasons to apply.
- It shows professionalism, respect, and intention—traits strong applicants are looking for in an employer.
✅ 6. Entry-Level Post Emphasizes Potential Over Perfection
- It explicitly welcomes candidates without formal journalism experience—offering training, mentorship, and a clear path to growth.
- Phrases like “we’ll train the right person” and “you’ll learn how to…” encourage high-potential applicants who might otherwise disqualify themselves.
✅ 7. The Hiring Process Is Transparent and Respectful
- Both posts promise every application will be reviewed, and candidates will hear back—even if they’re not selected.
- That’s rare. And it signals a workplace that values people—not just positions.
✅ 8. The CTA Reinforces Fairness Through WorkScreen
- Instead of “send a CV,” the posts direct candidates to a short skill-based evaluation via WorkScreen.
- That levels the playing field, eliminates guesswork, and makes the hiring process more fair and efficient—for everyone.
Bad Journalist Job Description Example (And Why it Fails)
📰 Job Title: Journalist
📍 Location: New York
💰 Salary: Not specified
📅 Job Type: Full-Time
🗓️ Deadline: July 15, 2025
Job Summary
We are seeking a professional journalist to report on news stories across a wide range of topics. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of current events, excellent writing skills, and the ability to work under deadlines.
Key Responsibilities
- Write and publish articles on a variety of subjects
- Attend events and report on key takeaways
- Conduct interviews when needed
- Submit stories on time
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or related field
- 2–3 years of writing experience preferred
- Ability to work independently
- Strong command of the English language
How to Apply
Interested candidates should email their CV and cover letter to: jobs@mediacompany.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Flat
🚫 1. The Job Title Is Too Vague
“Journalist” on its own doesn’t tell the reader what kind of journalism they’ll be doing. Are they writing hard news? Lifestyle pieces? Features? Beats matter—especially to professionals who specialize.
🚫 2. The Introduction Is Cold and Forgettable
“Seeking a professional journalist…” sounds like it was written by a robot. There’s no mission, no context, and no emotion—just a dry list of duties.
🚫 3. There’s No Salary or Benefit Info
Leaving this out sends the wrong signal. Today’s top candidates expect transparency. Omitting salary makes the post feel outdated and possibly exploitative.
🚫 4. No Insight Into Culture or Values
The post gives no indication of the newsroom’s vibe, leadership style, or editorial philosophy. That makes it hard for candidates to know if they’d even want to work there.
🚫 5. The Responsibilities Are Generic and Meaningless
“Write and publish articles” doesn’t help the applicant visualize what a real week in the role looks like. There’s no sense of scope, frequency, or impact.
🚫 6. The Hiring Process Feels Dismissive
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is a red flag. It tells applicants their time might be wasted—and that the company doesn’t respect the effort it takes to apply.
🚫 7. The CTA Is Cold and Uninspiring
“Send a CV” is not a call to action—it’s a dead end. There’s no energy, no warmth, and no explanation of what happens next.
In short: this post does the bare minimum. And the bare minimum doesn’t attract great storytellers—it repels them.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Journalist Job Post Stand Out
Even if your job post already looks great, these finishing touches can make it exceptional. Each one builds more trust, clarity, or emotional connection with the right candidates.
🔐 Tip 1: Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Job seekers are cautious—especially in journalism, where scams pretending to be legitimate outlets aren’t uncommon. A short notice can build trust instantly.
Example:
IMPORTANT NOTICE: We take the security and privacy of all applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, banking information, or personal financial data during any stage of the hiring process.
🌴 Tip 2: Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Journalists often burn out due to constant deadlines. Including flex days or PTO in your post signals that your newsroom respects balance.
Example:
Enjoy up to 20 paid flex days each year—so you can recharge, reset, and return fresh.
📈 Tip 3: Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Whether you’re hiring entry-level or senior journalists, the best talent wants to grow. Don’t just say “opportunities for advancement”—be specific.
Example:
You’ll get access to monthly newsroom skill-building sessions, guest lectures from top editors, and the chance to pitch long-form features or podcast segments as you grow.
🎥 Tip 4: Include a Loom or YouTube Video From the Hiring Editor
A short welcome video from the managing editor or team lead adds a personal, memorable touch. It also gives candidates a glimpse into your culture, tone, and values.
What to say in the video (example):
- Who you are
- What the publication covers
- What kind of person you’re excited to work with
- A warm thank-you to all applicants
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
💬 Tip 5: Use a Real Quote From a Team Member
Let your current staff do some of the talking. A quick quote can add credibility and warmth.
Example:
“I applied thinking I’d be writing filler content. Instead, I found editors who challenge me and stories that actually matter.” — Ava, Staff Writer
gh
Should You Use AI to Write a Job Description?
Let’s be honest—AI is tempting. You type:
“Write a journalist job description,”
…and it spits out something that looks decent.
But here’s the truth: AI-generated job descriptions often sound polished—but they fail to connect. Why? Because AI doesn’t know your company, your culture, or what makes this role truly worth applying for.
⚠️ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
If you just paste a lazy prompt into a chatbot, you’ll get:
- A copy-paste version of every other generic post online
- Buzzword-heavy content with zero personality
- A job description that sounds like corporate filler instead of real opportunity
It might save you time—but it costs you quality applicants. And that’s a trade you don’t want to make.
✅ The Smarter Way to Use AI
AI is a powerful tool—if you give it great ingredients. Treat it like a writing assistant, not a writer.
Here’s how:
Step 1: Give It Context
Feed AI the raw material first. That includes:
- What your company actually does
- What this specific role entails
- The tone you want to reflect (casual, mission-driven, inclusive?)
- Your perks, values, and what makes the job exciting
Step 2: Use a Prompt Like This
“Help me write a job post for a [Job Title] at [Company Name]. We’re hiring someone to [Insert Responsibilities]. Our culture is [Describe Company Culture], and we want to attract candidates who are [Ideal Traits].
We offer these perks: [List of Benefits].
Here’s our salary range: [Insert Range].
We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate applicants fairly, and here’s what our hiring process looks like: [Brief Summary]. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes]
Can you write a job description in a warm, human tone that reflects all of the above?”
Step 3: Refine the Output
Once AI gives you a draft:
- Add your voice
- Plug in quotes, links, or video embeds
- Adjust the structure to match your brand tone
- Run it past a team member for final polish
💡 Tip: You can even paste one of the good examples from this article and ask AI to model your draft after it.
Bottom line: AI can help you write faster—but it can’t replace your insight, your values, or your story.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?
✅ Option 1: Conversational Journalist Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
📰 Job Title: [Staff Journalist – Community Beat]
📍 Location: [Hybrid – [City], [State]]
💰 Salary: [$xx–$xx/year]
📅 Job Type: [Full-Time]
🎥 [Optional intro video – e.g., “Watch a quick 2-minute video from our editor-in-chief introducing the role”]
Who We Are
At [Company Name], we believe journalism should serve people—not algorithms. We cover local issues with heart, nuance, and honesty—whether it’s spotlighting overlooked voices, covering policy that impacts families, or celebrating community wins.
We’re a small but growing newsroom that values original thinking, clean reporting, and writers who care about the story behind the story.
The Role
We’re hiring a full-time staff journalist to join our reporting team. You’ll:
- Pitch and write 3+ original articles per week
- Conduct interviews with community members, experts, and sources
- Attend events, public meetings, or virtual press calls
- Collaborate with editors to shape and refine stories
You’re a Great Fit If You…
- Are a clear, compelling writer
- Have a nose for stories that matter to real people
- Take initiative, meet deadlines, and value feedback
- Have some journalism experience (student, freelance, or full-time—all welcome)
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You won’t be buried under clickbait quotas here. Instead, you’ll be mentored by editors who care, cover stories that make a difference, and grow your voice with every piece you publish. This is a chance to do meaningful work in a team that values trust, quality, and growth.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- [$500/year learning stipend]
- [Flexible paid time off + sick days]
- [Health, dental, and vision insurance]
- [Monthly writing workshops and team coaching]
- [Hybrid flexibility with local travel allowance]
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate candidates based on their writing—not just their resumes.
👉 Apply here: [Insert application link]
We respond to every applicant and respect your time.
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
Job Title: [Journalist]
Location: [Remote]
Job Type: [Full-Time]
Salary: [$xx–$xx/year]
🎥 [Optional: Insert a link to a 1-minute video from your editor or team leader]
Who We Are
[Company Name] is a mission-driven media company committed to reporting stories that inform, empower, and reflect the communities we serve. From policy coverage to human-interest features, we’re here to publish stories that matter—and build trust with every word.
Job Brief
We’re looking for a journalist to report, write, and publish original news stories for our digital platforms. This role involves weekly assignments, interviews, event coverage, and close collaboration with our editorial team.
Key Responsibilities
- Report and write 3–5 articles weekly
- Interview sources and verify facts
- Attend virtual/in-person events or briefings
- Collaborate with editors for accuracy and voice
- Meet deadlines in a fast-paced publishing schedule
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Journalism or relevant experience
- 1–3 years of professional or freelance journalism experience
- Strong writing, editing, and research skills
- Familiarity with AP Style and fact-checking
- Portfolio of published work (3–5 clips preferred)
Perks & Benefits
- [Flexible PTO + sick leave + company holidays]
- [Fully remote setup + optional quarterly meetups]
- [Health, dental, and vision coverage]
- [Annual performance review + bonus eligibility]
- [Ongoing training opportunities + editorial feedback loop]
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to ensure a fair, skill-based hiring process. Instead of a cover letter, you’ll complete a short writing evaluation.
👉 Apply here: [Insert link]
We review every submission and keep all candidates informed.
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Phase
Once you’ve crafted a strong job post that reflects your company’s values and clearly communicates the role—don’t let the hiring process fall flat with a generic inbox or clunky ATS.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
Here’s how WorkScreen helps you hire smarter:
🔍 1. Spot Top Talent—Fast
WorkScreen automatically evaluates applicants based on skill, not just resumes. Every candidate completes a structured task or writing sample, which gets scored and ranked on a performance-based leaderboard.
No more guesswork. No more inbox chaos.
✍️ 2. Assess Real-World Ability
Easily send role-specific skill tests (writing samples, research prompts, etc.) in just one click. You’ll quickly see which candidates can actually do the work—and which ones just look good on paper.
Perfect for journalism roles where clarity, accuracy, and originality matter.
🚫 3. Filter Out Low-Effort Applicants
Tired of copy-paste answers or “one-click apply” spam? WorkScreen helps you eliminate low-quality, AI-generated, or disengaged applicants—so you spend your time on people who are genuinely interested and capable.
Whether you’re hiring your first writer or scaling a full editorial team, WorkScreen makes the process faster, fairer, and more accurate—without overwhelming your inbox or sacrificing candidate experience.
FAQ
When hiring a journalist, prioritize these core skills:
- Clear, concise writing: Strong command of language and structure
- Research ability: Knows how to dig beyond surface-level facts
- Interviewing skills: Can ask sharp, insightful, and empathetic questions
- Fact-checking: Understands how to verify information before publishing
- News judgment: Can spot what’s newsworthy and angle a story appropriately
- Adaptability: Comfortable switching between beats, formats, or deadlines
- Digital literacy: Familiar with CMS, SEO, and audience engagement tools
Soft skills also matter—like curiosity, empathy, persistence, and integrity.
In the United States, the average journalist salary typically ranges between $45,000 to $75,000 per year depending on experience, location, and beat. Entry-level roles at local outlets may start around $40,000, while experienced reporters at national publications or niche beats (like tech or finance) can earn upwards of $85,000–$100,000+.
💡 Tip: Salary transparency builds trust—include at least a range in your job post.
All reporters are journalists, but not all journalists are reporters.
- A reporter gathers news through interviews, research, and live coverage, often focused on breaking stories.
- A journalist may also include editors, columnists, feature writers, or investigative staff who shape, analyze, or interpret news beyond just reporting it.
It varies.
- Daily news writers may publish 3–5 shorter stories per week.
- Feature or investigative journalists may take weeks on one deep piece.
What matters is clarity around expectations. Include this in your job description to set the right tone.
Some common red flags include:
- Overuse of buzzwords without portfolio substance
- Vague or recycled writing samples
- Lack of response to ethical questions (e.g., anonymous sources)
- Poor grammar or structure in basic communication
