Senior Courts & Crime Reporter, The California Post (San Francisco based)

Reporting to the Deputy News Editor, the Senior Courts & Crime Reporter will lead coverage of breaking and exclusive stories involving civil courts, crime, and public safety throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. This role is responsible for delivering fast, accurate, and authoritative reporting on major cases, law enforcement, and high-impact incidents shaping the region. This reporter will be on the front lines of one of the nation’s most complex and closely watched beats.

Application Instructions: Applicants should submit a cover letter or portfolio link for consideration.

Responsibilities:

• Deliver exclusive stories and cover breaking news across San Francisco that drive engagement and audience for the California Post.

• Write fast, clean, and compelling copy that aligns with the Post’s distinctive voice and style

• Spot stories that will resonate nationally, especially ones with viral or exclusive potential

• Develop sources across city agencies, emergency services, and local communities to get the inside track on stories

• Monitor court filings, public records, and social media for scoops and trending topics

• Collaborate with editors and fellow reporters to ensure comprehensive and coordinated coverage

• File updates in real time and across multiple platforms, including web, social, mobile, and video

• Uphold the highest journalistic standards of accuracy, fairness, and integrity

Requirements:

• At least 7-10 years of experience reporting for a fast-paced digital or print newsroom

• Excellent news judgment and the ability to identify compelling angles others may miss

• High level of self-motivation, commitment to teamwork and ability to win in a competitive environment

• Proven ability to report and write on deadline while juggling multiple stories at once

• Experience covering major metro areas, ideally including public safety, politics, or general assignment

• Proven experience with WordPress of similar CMS highly preferred

• Strong sourcing skills and a relentless approach to newsgathering

• Proficiency in social media and SEO best practices

• Familiarity with court and public records; ability to navigate legal documents a plus

• A competitive drive to be first and best on big stories

• Strong writing and reporting skills are the core of this role

• On-camera experience is strongly preferred, as we’re looking for reporters who are comfortable discussing and presenting their stories on video to help extend our journalism across digital and social platforms

• A strong social media presence or following is a plus

• Spanish or other language fluency is a plus

Note: This role will be based remote in San Francisco, CA.