Part-Time Freelance Reporters

Part-time freelance reporters (multiple vacancies)

Founded in 2023, The Plumas Sun is a nonprofit news outlet providing unbiased coverage of government, news and events for all of Plumas County. 

The Plumas Sun is looking for part-time reporters to cover human interest features, arts and events, natural resources, sports, healthcare, and other beats in a freelance capacity. Reporters set their own schedule, working up to 45 hours a month as needed in order to meet agreed deadlines. 

Freelance reporting for The Plumas Sun offers the opportunity to engage with and give back to the local community, gain writing experience and enjoy a creative outlet. It can be a great fit for students, retirees, those returning to work after a hiatus, or anyone looking for a flexible part-time side job. If you enjoy research and writing, we can teach you the rest.

Responsibilities:

• In consultation with editors, select stories for coverage
• As assigned, conduct interviews and research, take photos and prepare news stories of between 800-1500 words on average
• In collaboration with editors, polish drafts in preparation for publication
• Meet deadlines and balance multiple stories at different stages of production with the aim of publishing about one story per week on average
• Attend occasional Zoom meetings with editors and other Sun reporters

Qualifications:

• Enthusiasm for local news coverage
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Curiosity, critical thinking and creative problem solving
• Working familiarity with Plumas County, its people and communities
• Willingness to learn new research skills, develop AP style and accept constructive feedback from editors
• Must adhere to journalistic ethics, conflict of interest and other policies established by The Plumas Sun
• Past experience in journalism, nonfiction writing, copywriting or a related field a plus

Hours & compensation:

• 10-12 hours per week, flexible schedule
• $20 an hour for interviews and writing; we do not pay hourly for travel time but do reimburse mileage
• Must be authorized to work in the United States

To apply:

Please send resume, cover letter and writing sample to editor@plumassun.org using the subject line “Part-time reporter.” In your letter, please note which beat(s) you would like to cover, and which regions within Plumas County you are willing to travel to, as well as any past writing experience. Writing samples should be nonfiction and may include school assignments, personal writings, clippings, blog posts or press releases, letters to the editor, or links to previously published works.