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Creative Writing Lecturer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Creative Writing Lecturer information

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$26.6K

$61.8K

$89.3K

How much do creative writing lecturer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for creative writing lecturer in California is $61,825.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,300.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a creative writing lecturer?

Creative Writing Lecturers are educators who teach students the art and craft of writing creatively, including fiction, poetry, playwriting, and creative nonfiction. They typically work at colleges, universities, or workshops, guiding students through writing exercises, providing feedback, and helping them develop their unique voices. Creative Writing Lecturers often have advanced degrees in English, Creative Writing, or related fields, and may also be published authors. Their role includes designing curricula, leading discussions, and sometimes mentoring students outside the classroom.

How does a creative writing lecturer typically support students with diverse writing backgrounds and skill levels?

Creative Writing Lecturers often work with students who have a wide range of experience and confidence in writing. To support all learners, they design inclusive workshops, offer individualized feedback, and create a collaborative classroom atmosphere that encourages risk-taking and peer learning. Lecturers may also provide tailored reading lists and writing prompts to address different interests and abilities, ensuring that every student can grow and participate meaningfully. This approach not only fosters creativity but also builds a supportive learning community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a creative writing lecturer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Creative Writing Lecturer, you need advanced writing and literary analysis skills, often supported by a master's or doctoral degree in creative writing or English. Familiarity with digital learning platforms, workshop formats, and literary publishing tools is typically required. Strong communication, mentorship, and the ability to inspire creativity are standout soft skills. These abilities enable lecturers to effectively guide students, foster a supportive learning environment, and maintain academic standards.

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

AspectCreative Writing LecturerCreative Writing Instructor
CredentialsTypically requires a master's or doctoral degree in Creative Writing or related fieldOften requires a bachelor's degree; some positions prefer or require a master's
Work EnvironmentUniversities, colleges, academic settingsCommunity centers, workshops, private classes, online platforms
Employer & IndustryHigher education institutions, universitiesPrivate organizations, educational companies, community programs
Search & Comparison IntentAcademic roles, university teaching, higher educationPractical teaching, community education, workshop facilitation

In summary, a Creative Writing Lecturer typically works in universities with advanced degrees and focuses on academic teaching and research. In contrast, a Creative Writing Instructor often teaches in community or private settings, with fewer formal credentials required, emphasizing practical writing skills and workshops.

How do you become a creative writing lecturer?

To become a creative writing lecturer, individuals typically need at least a master's degree or Ph.D. in creative writing, English, or a related field. Relevant teaching experience, a strong portfolio of published work, and proficiency with curriculum development are also important for securing a position at a college or university.

How to be a creative writing lecturer?

To become a creative writing lecturer, typically a master's degree or higher in creative writing, literature, or a related field is required. Strong writing skills, a portfolio of published work, and teaching experience are also important, along with familiarity with curriculum development and academic standards.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Creative Writing Lecturer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,825 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Department of English and Comparative Literature Lecturer Pool 2026-2027

San Diego State University (SDSU)

San Diego, CA

$5.5K - $6.6K/mo

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


San Diego State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

389th of 627 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department of English and Comparative Literature Lecturer Pool 2026-2027

Apply Now Job no: 556258
Work type: Instructional Faculty - Temporary/Lecturer
Location: San Diego
Categories: Unit 3 - CFA - California Faculty Association, Temporary, Part Time

Description

The Department of English and Comparative Literature in the College of Arts and Letters at San Diego State University is accepting applications for their part-time lecturer pool.  

We welcome applications from prospective temporary faculty with expertise or experience in the following areas:

  • English and Comparative Literature, Children's Literature, Creative Writing, Digital Humanities, Environmental Humanities, LGBTQ+ studies, and related fields

Temporary appointments may be either full- or part-time. Appointments from the part-time pool are often made just prior to the start of the academic term, so applicants must be available on very short notice. The Fall term begins mid-August and ends late-December; the Spring term begins mid-January and ends mid-May. Opportunities for teaching during the Summer Sessions may also be available. Initial appointments are typically one semester or one academic year, to be renewed contingent on satisfactory evaluations and continuing availability of work. Applications will remain in our applicant pool during the academic year you apply.

Qualifications

Criteria 

  • Graduate degree in literature, cultural studies, or related fields
  • Demonstrated currency in subject matter

Application Instructions

Prospective temporary faculty who would like their applications on file are invited to send the following items:

  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Contact information for three (3) professional references (new employees only)
  • Cover letter (new employees only)
  • Unofficial transcripts (new employees only)

Initial rank and salary for lecturer faculty are based on professional experience and educational background and are determined by the hiring department. Most new appointees are hired at the Lecturer A or B rank and placed at the beginning of the range.

As of July 2024, the classification salary ranges for the respective ranks are:

Lecturer A: $5,507 - $6,677

Lecturer B: $6,221 - $13,224

Lecturer C: $6,825 - $14,523

Lecturer D: $8,593 - $15,211

Inquiries: For application inquiries, please email Dr. Quentin Bailey at qbailey@sdsu.edu 


Pursuant to Education Code 89521, the California State University requires that employment applicants disclose any final administrative decision or final judicial decision issued within the last seven years determining that the applicant committed sexual harassment.  This requirement applies specifically to applicants who meet the minimum qualifications for the Academic or Administrative position they are applying to.  Disclosures shall be provided to the San Diego State University Center for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination for further adjudication. Please contact cphd@sdsu.edu.

As part of its commitment to a safe and equitable "OneSDSU" community, SDSU requires that individuals seeking faculty employment provide at the time of application authorization to conduct background checks if they become a finalist for the position; applications without this authorization will be considered incomplete and not considered.

The person holding this position is considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.

A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position with the CSU. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or continued employment of current CSU employees who apply for the position.

Equal Opportunity and Excellence in Education and Employment

All university programs and activities are open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, San Diego State University (SDSU) provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every student and employee has access to the resources and support they need to thrive and succeed in a university environment and in their communities. SDSU complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California's Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and CSU's Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all university programs, policies, and practices. 

SDSU is a diverse community of individuals who represent many perspectives, beliefs and identities, committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and intellectually vibrant environment. We cultivate a culture of open dialogue, mutual respect, and belonging to support educational excellence and student success. Through academic programs, student organizations and activities, faculty initiatives, and community partnerships, we encourage meaningful engagement with diverse perspectives. As a higher education institution, we are dedicated to advancing knowledge and empowering individuals to reach their full potential by prioritizing inclusive curriculum development, faculty and staff training, student mentorship, and comprehensive support programs. At SDSU, excellence is built on merit, talent, diversity, accessibility, and equal opportunity for all.

Advertised: Mar 20, 2026 (9:00 AM) Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:

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