North Coast Journal, Inc. is Humboldt County’s leading alternative weekly, covering the stories that matter most to our diverse, creative, and ruggedly independent community. We specialize in thoughtful, award-winning journalism that amplifies underrepresented voices, unpacks local power structures, explores the region’s rich arts and culture scene, and reflects the complexities of life on California’s North Coast.
Position Summary
We’re looking for a curious, community-minded journalist with strong writing chops, a sense of humor, and a nose for stories that others overlook. As part of a small but scrappy team, you’ll report on everything from City Council showdowns and environmental justice to cannabis culture, queer nightlife, and coast-to-forest weirdness. You’ll write with depth, voice, and accuracy, and you’ll do it on deadline.
This is a rare opportunity to tell stories that resonate, stir things up, and make a difference in a place where everyone still reads the local paper.
Responsibilities
- Report, write, and file weekly news and feature stories for print and web.
- Pitch original ideas and follow through from reporting to publications.
- Build sources across diverse communities, especially those underrepresented in local media.
- Cover breaking news, community events, and regional developments with accuracy and nuance.
- Engage with readers and promote stories via social media and newsletters.
- Collaborate with editors and fellow staff on special issues (e.g., Best of Humboldt, Election Guides, Cannabis Coverage, Arts Issues).
- Contribute photography, video, or audio content as needed.
Qualifications
- 3+ years of reporting experience (alt-weekly, community newsroom, or freelance).
- Sharp news judgment and solid reporting/interviewing skills.
- Clear, compelling, and voice-driven writing.
- Commitment to journalistic ethics, accuracy, and transparency.
- Comfortable working independently on tight deadlines.
- Familiarity with Humboldt County or a genuine eagerness to immerse yourself here.
- Bonus: Experience with WordPress, InDesign, or basic photo/video/audio editing.
- A strong point of view—and the humility to change it when the story demands.
- Passion for local politics, environmental justice, Indigenous issues, arts/culture, cannabis, or quirky small-town life.
What We Offer
- A chance to make an impact in a community that reads, responds, and cares.
- Creative freedom and the ability to pitch offbeat, important stories.
- Mentorship and collaboration with seasoned editors.
- A beautiful place to live and work—redwoods, beaches, rivers, and an incredibly engaged audience.
- Competitive salary for a small independent outlet and flexibility for the right candidate.
To apply, please send the following to melissa@northcoastjournal.com:
- A brief cover letter explaining why you're the right fit for this job and this place.
- Your resume.
- 3–5 writing samples (features, news, essays — show us range and voice).
- Optional: multimedia clips or social links.
North Coast Journal, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in the power of local journalism and welcome diverse voices, perspectives, and lived experiences.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Contract
Pay: $43,211.25 - $52,039.35 per year
Expected hours: 20 – 40 per week
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person