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Documentary Writer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Coordinate the written and documentary discovery process. Draft discovery requests and responses for attorney review, coordinate production of documentary responses, review sufficiency of written and ...

Trade Finance Product

New York, NY · On-site

$106K - $170K/yr

... documentary and standby letters of credit including back-to-back SBLCs and Bank Guarantees and ... Very good written and verbal communication skills; * Empathy and a genuine concern for others ...

Sr. Story Producer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$90K - $120K/yr

Conceptualize new angles, write scripts, oversee on-set execution, and supervise editors on final edits and deliveries to Media Buying team(s). * Conduct documentary-style, on-camera interviews that ...

Telemetry Technician (FR)

Valley Stream, NY · On-site

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

Recognizes arrhythmias and obtains documentary strip. * * Reports all arrhythmias to nurse ... Ability to communicate effectively, and follow written and/or oral instructions. *Additional Salary ...

Telemetry Technician (FR)

Valley Stream, NY · On-site

$27.79 - $29.84/hr

Recognizes arrhythmias and obtains documentary strip. * * Reports all arrhythmias to nurse ... Ability to communicate effectively, and follow written and/or oral instructions. *Additional Salary ...

Telemetry Technician (FR)

Valley Stream, NY

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

Recognizes arrhythmias and obtains documentary strip. * * Reports all arrhythmias to nurse ... Ability to communicate effectively, and follow written and/or oral instructions. *Additional Salary ...

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Documentary Writer information

See salary details

$37K

$84.5K

$130K

How much do documentary writer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for documentary writer in the United States is $84,537.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $101,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical workday look like for a Documentary Writer?

A typical day for a Documentary Writer involves conducting thorough research, interviewing subjects or experts, and drafting or revising scripts to tell compelling non-fiction stories. Writers may spend time collaborating with directors, producers, and editors to ensure the narrative aligns with the film's vision and factual accuracy. The workflow can vary depending on the project phase, alternating between solitary writing and collaborative meetings. Flexibility and strong organizational skills are crucial, as documentary production schedules are often dynamic and deadline-driven. This variety makes the role both challenging and rewarding, especially for those who thrive in a creative and fast-paced environment.

What does a Documentary Writer do?

A Documentary Writer is responsible for researching, structuring, and writing the narrative framework for a documentary film or series. They develop scripts, voiceovers, and interview questions, ensuring the story is engaging and informative. Their work involves collaboration with directors, producers, and researchers to align the script with the documentary’s vision.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Documentary Writer position, and why are they important?

Documentary Writers need excellent research, storytelling, and scriptwriting skills, often supported by a background in journalism, communications, or film studies. Familiarity with screenwriting software such as Final Draft, as well as experience with archival research tools, is typically required. Strong collaboration, creativity, and adaptability help writers bring authentic stories to life while working closely with directors, producers, and researchers. These abilities ensure engaging, accurate narratives that resonate with audiences and meet production goals.

How much does it cost to make a 30 minute documentary?

A documentary writer's role is typically part of a larger production team; the overall cost to produce a 30-minute documentary can range from $50,000 to over $300,000, depending on factors like research, equipment, crew, and post-production. Costs vary based on the project's scope, location, and required resources, with budgets often reflecting the complexity of storytelling and technical needs.

What does a documentary writer do?

A documentary writer researches, develops, and writes scripts for documentary films or programs, often focusing on factual storytelling and real events. They collaborate with directors and producers, conduct interviews, and ensure accuracy and clarity in the narrative, typically using research and writing skills along with knowledge of storytelling techniques.

Do documentaries make a lot of money?

Documentary writers typically earn lower salaries compared to other media professionals, with income often dependent on project funding, production budgets, and distribution success. Profits from documentaries can vary widely, and many documentary writers work freelance or on commission, which can impact earnings. Success in this field often relies on strong storytelling skills, industry connections, and the ability to secure funding or distribution deals.

Is there a demand for screenwriters?

There is steady demand for screenwriters, especially in film, television, and digital media industries. Skilled writers with strong storytelling, script development, and industry knowledge are sought after, with opportunities increasing as content creation expands across platforms.
More about Documentary Writer jobs
What cities are hiring for Documentary Writer jobs? Cities with the most Documentary Writer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Documentary Writer jobs? The most popular types of Documentary Writer jobs are:
What states have the most Documentary Writer jobs? States with the most job openings for Documentary Writer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Documentary Writer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Full Time, and 92% Part Time. Highlights an 54% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 44% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,537 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

At Littler, we understand that workplace issues can't wait. With access to more than 1,600 employment attorneys in 100 offices around the world, our clients don't have to. We aim to go beyond best practices, creating solutions that help clients navigate a complex business world. What's distinct about our approach? With deep experience and resources that are local, everywhere, we are fully focused on your business. With a diverse team of the brightest minds, we foster a culture that celebrates original thinking. And with powerful proprietary technology, we disrupt the status quo-delivering groundbreaking innovation that prepares employers not just for what's happening today, but for what's likely to happen tomorrow. For over 75 years, our firm has harnessed these strengths to offer fresh perspectives on each matter we advise, litigate, mediate, and negotiate. Because at Littler, we're fueled by ingenuity and inspired by you.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
"Essential Functions" are primarily job duties that incumbents must be able to perform unassisted or with some reasonable accommodation made by the employer.
  1. Initial review of case to assist attorneys' evaluation of case. Draft case chronologies, "cast of characters", answers and other pleadings; oversee receipt and intake of client documents.
  2. Coordinate the written and documentary discovery process. Draft discovery requests and responses for attorney review, coordinate production of documentary responses, review sufficiency of written and documentary responses. Attend document production, interact with client to obtain pertinent documents.
  3. Coordinate and handle deposition process. Coordinate and schedule lay and expert depositions, draft deposition outlines and select potential exhibits for attorney review, select relevant material for expert review, attend depositions, summarize transcripts. Prepare and serve subpoenas; arrange for court reporters/video technicians.
  4. Coordinate creation of litigation support database. Coordinate the creation of database in-house or litigation support firms, coordinate receipt and transfer of documents for document imaging to perform deposition summaries, word searches and provide links to written and imaged databases.
  5. Assist in factual investigations. Assist in or coordinate with investigators witnesses searches, interview clients, employees, or third party witnesses, conduct public records searches, review and summarize employment and medical records for attorney review.
  6. Coordinate and assist in trial preparation. Coordinate compilation of trial binders, trial exhibits, demonstrative exhibits, coordinate arrangements for equipment and use of offsite trial facilities; assist with preparation of motions in limine, jury instructions, witness and exhibit lists; draft direct and cross examinations; assist with jury selection, operate trial preservation software, and attend trial.
  7. Perform basic legal and medical research, utilizing library books, on line research tools and internet, cite checking and shepardizing.
  8. File maintenance within Firm standard. Prepare files for storage or return to client.
  9. Assist in the post-trial and appeal process by performing such tasks as polling jury members, drafting memoranda of costs, cite-checking Motions for JNOV and/or new trial and appellate briefs, and creating and coordinating the assembly of excerpts of record.
  10. Regular and predictable attendance is an essential function of the job.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
  1. Must have a minimum of two years' experience as a paralegal in a law firm or corporate law department and possess a solid understanding of litigation issues and process.
  2. BA/BS degree or a certificate from an accredited paralegal program in addition to two years of experience in a law firm or corporate law environment.
  3. Experience in coordinating all phases of case management for class actions and document intensive litigation using automated databases and automated document retrieval and imaging systems.
  4. Familiarity with both Minnesota state and Federal courts, and court procedures.
  5. Proficiency with MS Word, Excel, OneDrive, Relativity and other litigation support programs, and on-line research tools
  6. Interpersonal skills necessary in order to communicate with a diverse group of attorneys, staff and clients and provide information with ordinary courtesy and tact while safeguarding confidentiality.
  7. Ability to organize and prioritize numerous tasks and complete them under time constraints.
  8. Ability to operate standard office equipment.
  9. Workload occasionally requires more than regular work week hours to perform essential duties of the position; may require irregular hours.
  10. Must be self motivated with the ability to work independently and as a team member.

WORKING CONDITIONS (Environment within which the work is performed):
  1. Normal office environment with little exposure to excessive noise, dust, temperature and the like.

EMPLOYMENT WITH LITTLER MENDELSON: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature of the job and do not represent that all such duties will be performed by all individuals who hold the job. The list of duties is not exhaustive in that incumbents may be assigned other duties in addition to those shown. All employees of the firm are expected to:
  • Promote positive work habits, including effective and timely communication, teamwork and respect for co-workers.
  • Provide constructive guidance to other employees and representatives of third parties who do business with the firm.
  • Comply with safe work practices, including the use of safe work procedures, maintenance of a safe working area, and the use of safety equipment.
  • Contribute to providing the highest quality of products and services to clients.
  • Understand and appropriately apply the firm's practices and procedures.

SCOPE OF JOB DESCRIPTION AND MODIFICATIONS: This job description does not limit the tasks that an employee may reasonably be requested to perform. Substantive changes to this job description may be necessary to meet the changing business needs of the firm. Any substantive revisions to this job description require the approval of the Office Administrator. Notwithstanding this Position Description, all Littler Mendelson employees are at-will employees - each may resign at any time and for any reason, and the firm is free to terminate the employee at any time, with or without cause and with or without notice.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.