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Creative Writing Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$89.24/hr

... creative writing, or journalism OR - Equivalency: An official transcript documenting successful ... Instructor Credential in English? If yes, submit applicable credential (front/back). * Yes * No 03 ...

Part-Time English Instructor Pool

Gilroy, CA ยท On-site

$78.48 - $105.19/hr

Part-Time English Instructor Pool at Gavilan College Share on X Print Application Deadline 1/20 ... creative writing or journalism OR - the equivalent NON-DISCRIMINATION: Gavilan College is an equal ...

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Creative Writing Instructor information

See California salary details

$39K

$61.4K

$90.3K

How much do creative writing instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for creative writing instructor in California is $61,371.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $83,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a creative writing instructor do?

A Creative Writing Instructor teaches students how to express their ideas and stories through writing. They design courses, lead workshops, provide feedback on students' work, and encourage creativity in various forms such as fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. Instructors may work in schools, colleges, community centers, or online platforms, helping students develop their writing skills, understand literary techniques, and build confidence in their creative abilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a creative writing instructor?

To thrive as a Creative Writing Instructor, you typically need a strong background in literature, creative writing, and often a relevant degree such as an MFA or MA. Familiarity with digital platforms for course delivery, word processing software, and workshop management tools is also important. Standout instructors excel in communication, mentorship, and fostering an inclusive, inspiring learning environment. These skills and qualities are essential for effectively guiding students' creative growth and maintaining high engagement in the classroom.

What are some common challenges creative writing instructors face when engaging diverse groups of students?

Creative Writing Instructors often work with students who have varying skill levels, backgrounds, and interests. One common challenge is fostering an inclusive classroom environment where all voices feel valued and students are encouraged to share their unique perspectives. Additionally, instructors must balance providing constructive feedback while nurturing creativity and confidence in each writer. Adapting lesson plans to accommodate different learning styles and encouraging collaboration among students are also key aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Creative Writing Instructor vs Writing Coach?

AspectCreative Writing InstructorWriting Coach
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in English, Creative Writing, or related field; teaching certification may be preferredOften has experience in writing and editing; certifications vary, but strong portfolio is key
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, workshops, online classesPrivate practice, online platforms, corporate training
Industry UsageAcademic and educational settings, community programsFreelance, publishing, personal development

While both roles focus on writing skills, a Creative Writing Instructor primarily teaches students in academic or workshop settings, emphasizing craft and theory. A Writing Coach offers personalized guidance to individual writers, focusing on editing, publishing, and career development. The roles overlap in credentials and work environment but differ in scope and client interaction.

What are the most commonly searched types of Creative Writing Instructor jobs in California?

The most popular types of Creative Writing Instructor jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Creative Writing Instructor jobs in California?

For Creative Writing Instructor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Creative Writing Instructor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Creative Writing Instructor jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Creative Writing Instructor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Creative Writing Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Creative Writing Instructor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 24% Full Time, 62% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,371 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Part-Time English Instructor (Pool)

West Valley-Mission Community College District

Saratoga, CA โ€ข On-site

$36K - $52K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Requisition Details
Position Information
Position Title
Part-Time English Instructor (Pool)
Position ID
Campus
Mission College
Position Summary Information
Definition
PART-TIME, ASSOCIATE FACULTY POOL
Applications for Part-Time, Associate Faculty pools are continually accepted (unless otherwise specified) by the District and will be added to the application pool for review by hiring authorities on an as-needed basis. Should you be invited for an interview, you will be contacted by a District representative.
Assignment
This position is a part-time position as an Associate Instructor in English. The teaching assignment may require teaching lecture-discussion courses during day, evening or on Saturday and/or in an on-line/distance education format. The assignments are as needed, during Spring, Summer, and/or Fall semesters. This position is represented by the West Valley-Mission Federation of Teachers (WVMFT / AFT Local 6554).
Work location: Mission College, Santa Clara, CA
Salary and Benefits
Salary is based on a percentage of workload, up to a maximum of 67% of a full-time load. Salary is prorated based on an initial hiring salary range of $36,191 - $52,297 per semester; and is based on academic achievement, teaching and related experience.
Minimum Qualifications
1. Education - Possess any one of the following:
  • Master's degree in English, literature, comparative literature, or composition; OR
  • Bachelor's degree in any of the above AND master's degree in linguistics, TESL, speech, education with a specialization in reading, creative writing, or journalism; OR
  • A valid California Community College Instructor's Credential in English; OR
  • The equivalent of the above.

AND
2. Demonstrated ability to effectively work with persons of diverse socioeconomic, cultural, disability, and ethnic backgrounds.
Desired Qualifications
The ideal candidate will also demonstrate the following desired qualification(s):
  • Ability to teach effectively and to communicate well with students from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, both in and out of the classroom.
  • Knowledge of a variety of instructional approaches, techniques and strategies.
  • Teaching, training, and/or cultural life experiences that enable one to teach, tutor, and mentor students from diverse linguistic, cultural, ethnic, socio-economic, or educational backgrounds.
  • Knowledge of the content of appropriate courses.
  • Knowledge of methods relevant to teaching writing courses effectively, especially at the community college level.
  • Experience in teaching either practical, remedial, or transfer writing courses, especially at the community college level.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
Instructional duties and assignments may consist of one or more of the following:
  • Provide instruction for assigned courses. This includes preparation for in-class or on-line/distance education activities, evaluation of students' work, consultation with students outside of class and/or on-line, maintenance of currency in the subjects taught.
  • Maintain accurate class and other records required by the college.
  • Submit, when due, attendance rosters and grade reports.
  • Follow course outlines as filed in the instruction offices.
  • Maintain office hours each week, at .5 hours per week per section.
  • Observe, support and enforce the regulations, policies and programs of the District and college.
  • Provide each student with a written course syllabus at the beginning of the course, as per instructions in the Faculty Handbook.
  • Refer students to appropriate college sources for information on counseling and other student services.
  • Assist students by providing advice on requirements for successful achievement in the members' area of expertise.
  • Work cooperatively within the college community.
  • Foster an environment that protects academic freedom within the college community.
  • Foster a positive working environment that is free from harassment, prejudice and/or bias.
  • Demonstrate a respect for the dignity of each individual.

Other Duties
Application Information
APPLICATION INFORMATION:
  • Interested applicants must submit online all materials requested, including: (1) A completed online West Valley-Mission Community College District application; (2) Resume; (3) Unofficial copies of transcripts; (4) District Equivalency Application, if applicable; and (5) Any requested licenses or certificates, if applicable.
  • All sections of the online application, including Education and Educational Work History, must be completed thoroughly.
  • Supervisor(s) name(s) and telephone numbers must be included in the application.
  • Incomplete applications will not be considered.
  • Do NOT send unrequested materials. Unrequested materials will be removed from your application and will not be used for consideration of employment.
  • The employment application and supporting documents represent you; it is to your advantage to fill out the application form carefully and completely.

ABOUT TRANSCRIPTS:
  • If a minimum requirement is possession of a degree, then a copy of transcripts is required to be included with your application to verify the degree being awarded. If no transcripts are included or the transcript does not show a degree conferred AND degree conferred date, the application may be screened as not meeting minimum requirements.
  • Degrees must have been awarded by a college or university accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Council on Post-Secondary Accreditation and/or the U.S. Department of Education.
  • Candidates with degrees earned outside of the United States must provide official certification of equivalency to U. S. degrees by a certified U. S. credential review service, must have a U.S. evaluation (course by course of the transcripts) and must be submitted with this online application.
  • If you do not have an electronic version of the transcript, you can get it scanned at an office supply or copy store, then attach the electronic version of your transcript to this online application.
  • Copies of diplomas, grade reports, graduation petitions, transcript evaluations requests, or similar documents WILL NOT be accepted in lieu of transcripts.
  • When uploading transcripts, please ensure they are NOT encrypted, secured, or password-protected or they will be rejected by the system.

EQUIVALENCY INFORMATION:
Applicants applying under equivalency bear the responsibility of submitting the District's Equivalency Application form with details and evidence of the factors (academic preparation and/or experience) that they believe to be equivalent of the required qualifications for this position. Application(s) for equivalency are required if degrees are not in exact discipline required.
The Equivalency Application is included in the online application as an OPTIONAL form to complete.
  • ONLY complete the Request for Equivalency application if degree does not match discipline(s) stated in the Minimum Qualifications.
  • List accurately and completely the courses taken that match requirements of the required degree.
  • Do NOT attach documents such as course evaluations.

For reasonable accommodations and assistance, contact:
Office of Human Resources, Attn: Recruitment
14000 Fruitvale Ave, Saratoga, CA 95070
Phone: (408) 741-2174 Fax: (408) 741-2564
Email: Jobs@wvm.edu
Selection Process
SELECTION PROCESS INFORMATION:
  • Applications will be screened by appropriate department representatives on an as-needed basis. Qualified applicants who best meet the needs of the division will be contacted for an interview.
  • Travel expenses to attend the interview are the responsibility of the candidate.
  • Applications will remain in our online system for 1 year. Each year, part-time pools will be refreshed and applicants will be notified of the opportunity to re-submit application.
  • Application materials become the property of the District and will not be returned or duplicated.
  • The District reserves the right to contact former, current, the most recent employers, and others to investigate past employment records of applicants.
  • Upon hire the successful candidate must provide the required documents of identity and authorization to work and attest he/she is authorized to work in the United States.
  • The district does not provide visa sponsorship.

EEO STATEMENT:
West Valley-Mission Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer that seeks to employ a diverse workforce who will contribute to an inclusive and welcoming educational and employment environment. The District is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of ethnic group identification, race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, physical disability, mental disability, ancestry, sexual orientation, language, accent, citizenship status, transgender status, parental status, marital status, economic status, veteran status, and medical condition consistent with applicable federal and state laws.
Special Instructions to the Applicant
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
FY14/15-002POOL
Open Date
05/20/2025
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes