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Creative Writing Poetry Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ETTA

Direct Support Professional

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$22/hr

If you are a student, artist, musician, writer poet, caregiver, or interested in becoming creative writer, occupational therapist, physical therapist, speech pathologist, educator, social workers ...

Middlebury College

Instructor of Arabic

Oakland, CA · On-site

... writing and speaking exclusively in Arabic. We are looking for a faculty member who has experience ... This may include poetry, literature, art, music, etc. Qualifications The successful candidate ...

Middlebury College

Instructor of Korean

Oakland, CA · On-site

... listening, writing and speaking exclusively in Korean. In addition to the salary, lodging and a ... Ability to teach a cultural /interdisciplinary module such as music, poetry, arts, calligraphy ...

Middlebury College

Instructor of Arabic

Oakland, CA · On-site

... writing and speaking exclusively in Arabic. We are looking for a faculty member who has experience ... This may include poetry, literature, art, music, etc. In addition to the salary, lodging and a ...

All JobsCreative Writing Poetry JobsCreative Writing Poetry Jobs in California

Creative Writing Poetry information

See California salary details

$39K

$61.4K

$90.3K

How much do creative writing poetry jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for creative writing poetry 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a creative writing poet?

To thrive as a Creative Writing Poet, you need a strong command of language, an understanding of poetic forms, and often a degree in English, creative writing, or a related field. Familiarity with word processing software, literary journals, and submission platforms is commonly required. Creativity, resilience, and the ability to accept feedback are vital soft skills that set successful poets apart. These skills ensure that poets can craft impactful work, navigate the publishing process, and continually grow in a competitive field.

What is the difference between Creative Writing Poetry vs Creative Writing Fiction?

AspectCreative Writing PoetryCreative Writing Fiction
CredentialsTypically no formal credentials required; strong command of language and literary devicesOften requires understanding of narrative structure; sometimes a degree in creative writing or literature
Work EnvironmentIndependent, often freelance or published in literary journalsCan be freelance, but also in publishing houses, magazines, or personal projects
Industry UsageUsed in literary magazines, poetry collections, and performancesUsed in novels, short stories, and publishing industry
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare styles, techniques, or career paths in poetryPeople compare storytelling, plot development, or publishing opportunities

Creative Writing Poetry focuses on crafting expressive, often rhythmic works using literary devices, while Creative Writing Fiction involves creating narrative stories with characters and plots. Both share a love for storytelling but differ in form, structure, and industry application.

What are some common challenges poets face when working on commissioned creative writing projects?

Poets working on commissioned projects often encounter challenges like aligning their personal creative voice with the client's vision or requirements. Balancing artistic integrity while meeting specific themes, formats, or deadlines can require significant flexibility and communication. Additionally, poets may need to adjust to collaborative feedback from editors or clients, which can involve multiple rounds of revisions. Embracing constructive criticism and maintaining an open, adaptable mindset are key to succeeding in these settings.

What is creative writing poetry?

Creative writing poetry is a form of literary expression where writers use imaginative language, figurative devices, and unique structures to evoke emotions, convey ideas, and explore personal or universal themes. Unlike traditional or academic writing, creative poetry focuses on originality, personal voice, and artistic flair. Poems can take many forms, from free verse to sonnets, and often experiment with rhythm, imagery, and sound to create meaning beyond the literal. Creative poets often draw on personal experiences, observations, or abstract concepts to craft their work.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Creative Writing Poetry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Creative Writing Poetry job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,371 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Associate Professor or Full Professor, Poetry

Stanford Energy

Stanford, CA

$128K - $159K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Stanford University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

208th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Associate Professor or Full Professor, Poetry

Apply now Work type: University Tenure Line
Location: Stanford University
Categories: School of Humanities & Sciences

Department of English/Creative Writing Program, Associate Professor or Full Professor, Poetry 

The Department of English and the Creative Writing Program at Stanford University seek applicants for a senior appointment at the rank of Associate Professor or Professor specializing in Poetry. Candidates are expected to have a record of distinguished publication, including two published books of original poetry. All applicants should hold an MFA or its equivalent.

Candidates should have a strong commitment to teaching and be prepared to take an active part in Stanford's vibrant academic and creative writing communities. This position requires teaching courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels within both the English Department and the Creative Writing Program. A particular emphasis of the position is the mentoring and advising of students at all levels.  The term of appointment is expected to begin September 1, 2027. 


Candidates should submit the following:

  a cover letter.

  a curriculum vitae with a full list of publications including any publications in genres other than poetry.

  a teaching statement. This should include examples of how the candidate has applied their approach in the classroom. 

  contact information for three references. 

Further materials may be requested later.


All application materials must be submitted online.

For full consideration, materials must be received by September 15, 2026 at 11:55pm PST. 

The salary range for this position for the academic year 2026-2027 is: 

Associate Professor: $128,992 - $159,907
Professor: $149,247 - $255,852

Stanford University has provided a pay range representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for the position upon hire. The pay offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors including (but not limited to) the qualifications of the selected candidate, budget availability, and internal equity.

Inquiries may be directed to Christina Ablaza, Administrative Director of Creative Writing, cablaza@stanford.edu. Further information about Stanford's Department of English and Creative Writing Program can be found at https://english.stanford.edu and https://creativewriting.stanford.edu/.

Review of applications will begin on September 16, 2026.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Stanford welcomes applications from all who would bring additional dimensions to the University's research, teaching, and clinical missions. 

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact disability.access@stanford.edu.

Advertised: 15 Jul 2026 3:00 PM Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: 15 Sep 2026 11:55 PM Pacific Daylight Time

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