Reporter

About the role

The Press Democrat is seeking a reporter to lead coverage of city government in Santa Rosa. This role focuses on agencies and institutions shaping the North Bay's largest city, including Santa Rosa city government and the City Council.

Responsibilities

• Lead comprehensive coverage of city agencies and institutions, including Santa Rosa city government, the City Council, and the broader Santa Rosa community.
• Deliver a mix of daily stories, enterprise assignments, and long-form narratives showcasing the best work.
• Manage a steady volume of daily and enterprise stories, leveraging regular coverage for long-form storytelling and watchdog investigations.
• Report on the fiscal health of the city, tracking public spending and engaging readers in discussions around ballot tax proposals and budget tensions.
• Carve out space for solutions journalism, reporting on stories that raise thoughtful questions and involve the community.
• Forge vital relationships with leaders and public officials to secure access for the team.

Requirements

• Deep familiarity with California policy, politics, and funding, with the ability to translate complex topics into accessible stories.
• A strong understanding of public budgets and the confidence to ask tough questions of elected officials and bureaucrats.
• Precise and exacting journalism standards, coupled with proficiency in using social media, capturing video, and handling occasional photo assignments.
• A fluency in a second language, particularly Spanish, which is highly valued on this beat.
• At least 2-3 years of daily newspaper experience, with a preference for previous government coverage.
• A Bachelor’s degree, though a university or post-graduate degree in journalism is welcomed.

Qualifications

• At least 2-3 years of daily newspaper work experience, with a strong preference for previous government coverage.
• A Bachelor’s degree, though a university or post-graduate degree in journalism is welcomed.

Skills

• Strong writing and editing skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Proficiency in social media, video production, and photography.
• Fluency in Spanish, highly valued.

Benefits & Compensation

The hourly range is $28.33 - $35.22, plus a cell phone stipend. Benefits include medical, dental, life, and disability insurance, 401(k), paid time off, and select paid holidays. For more details, visit www.mymedianewsgroup.com.

Who We Are

The Press Democrat is a leading source of news and information for Sonoma and Napa counties. We are dedicated to providing in-depth local journalism that informs, engages, and holds power accountable. As part of the Northern California Community Newspapers group, we join forces with sister publications to provide comprehensive local and regional coverage. We are a dynamic, community-focused news organization committed to serving our readers with integrity and innovation across print and digital platforms.

How to Apply

Please submit an online application along with your resume for this position at apply_link. Include 2-3 samples showcasing your best work.

Conditions of Employment

• A full pre-employment background check and MVR will be conducted.
• Must be willing to submit and pass the necessary required checks.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and have reliable transportation.
• Available for shift work and may be required to work various hours for coverage outside of normal business hours.