The effects of social attributes on multiple measures of job satisfaction were examined using a stratified random national sample of Canadian newsworkers. A relatively high level of satisfaction coupled with brief careers was identified. This apparent incongruence derives from sector differences. Newspaperworkers are more satisfied and have longer careers than those in broadcast news. Newspaperworkers are pulled to the occupation by high levels of autonomy, control and job security, while broadcast newsworkers are pushed away ostensibly by a lack of autonomy, control, job security and high staff turnover. These conclusions validate the findings reported in studies of professionalism, and underscore the need for continued research on the nature and impact of newsroom policies.