Community Reporter - Temporary

The Oregonian/OregonLive seeks a full-time, temporary Community Reporter to help our newsroom expand its coverage outside the city of Portland. This role requires someone who does not rely solely on officials or institutions for story ideas, but listens closely to the buzz in the community, and turns that curiosity into useful and trusted journalism.

This position is responsible for monitoring community calendars, public information feeds, meeting agendas and community conversations – in person and on social media – to stay on top of daily news and identify the questions readers want answered. The reporter needs to move quickly from listening to reporting: making calls and getting into the community to produce several timely posts daily. They should be on the hunt for stories people are already talking about as well as those that will surprise and bring joy to our readers.

Candidates should also feel comfortable using AI responsibly as a tool to work smarter, surface story ideas, build context and go deeper on important topics.

The pay rate for this position is $28.00 - $32.00 per hour.  This is a full-time, temporary position for up to six months.

This job requires reliable transportation to meet with sources or cover events.

Our ideal candidate will have the following: 

• A degree in journalism, communications or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least one year of professional journalism experience with a demonstrated ability to produce clear, compelling and accurate reporting.
• Ability to identify, verify and develop stories that resonate with everyday residents, including ideas surfaced through reader questions, social media conversation, search trends and public records. 
• Comfort appearing on camera and producing short, engaging social videos that bring reporting to wider audiences. 
• Comfort working at a high tempo, balancing fast, accurate daily updates that readers can’t find elsewhere and will subscribe to receive. 
• Ability to work independently and remotely, as well as in The Oregonian/OregonLive office.