Freelance Journalist

Freelance Journalist — Thurston Chronicle

Location: Primarily remote, with in-person assignments in Thurston County, Washington

Compensation: $125 per commissioned article, plus $25 for assignments that include photography

Schedule: Flexible; paid per assignment on a biweekly basis

Thurston Chronicle, a hyperlocal news organization serving the Olympia area, is seeking freelance journalists to tell the stories of Thurston County.

You’ll create original reporting for digital and print publication, working with an editor on assignments that reflect your interests, experience, and availability. Potential beats include local government, education, business, port operations, community events, sports, and environmental issues.

This opportunity offers a flexible schedule and primarily remote work. We are particularly interested in journalists who know the coverage area and can travel to in-person assignments within Thurston County.

Responsibilities

• Research and write accurate, engaging, and well-sourced articles.

• Conduct interviews and attend meetings, events, or other in-person assignments as needed.

• Take and submit captioned photos when requested to accompany an article.

• Meet agreed-upon deadlines.

• Collaborate with an editor to refine articles and prepare them for publication.

Qualifications

• Strong writing, research, and interviewing skills.

• A commitment to accuracy, fairness, and responsible reporting.

• The ability to work independently, communicate clearly, and meet deadlines.

• An interest in local news and the communities of Thurston County.

Previous experience with a student newspaper, magazine, newsletter, internship, independent publication, or another news-related outlet is preferred but not required. Photography experience is a plus but is not required.

Compensation and Assignment Structure

Journalists receive $125 per commissioned article, with an additional $25 per assignment that includes photography. Payments are issued every two weeks. Assignments are coordinated with an editor based on coverage needs and the journalist’s interests and availability.

How to Apply

Please submit your résumé or a brief summary of your relevant experience, along with writing samples or links to published work, if available. Tell us about your connection to Thurston County, the topics you’re interested in covering, and your availability for in-person assignments.

Pay: $375.00 - $500.00 per week

Work Location: On the road