ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Comedy Writer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

All JobsFreelance Comedy Writer Jobs

Freelance Comedy Writer information

See salary details

$7

$23

$32

How much do freelance comedy writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance comedy writer in the United States is $23.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Freelance Comedy Writer vs Freelance Screenwriter?

AspectFreelance Comedy WriterFreelance Screenwriter
CredentialsWriting experience, humor skills, portfolioWriting experience, storytelling skills, screenplay samples
Work EnvironmentClients, comedy shows, online platformsFilm/TV productions, studios, independent projects
Industry UsageComedy, entertainment, digital mediaFilm, television, streaming services
Common Search IntentComedy writing gigs, humor content jobsScreenplay jobs, film writing opportunities

Freelance comedy writers focus on creating humorous content for various media, often working with clients or online platforms. Freelance screenwriters craft scripts for films or TV shows, typically collaborating with production companies. While both roles require strong writing skills, comedy writers emphasize humor and timing, whereas screenwriters focus on storytelling structure. Understanding these differences helps freelancers target the right opportunities in the entertainment industry.

What does a freelance comedy writer do?

A freelance comedy writer creates humorous content for various clients or platforms, such as television shows, stand-up comedians, websites, podcasts, or social media. Their work includes writing jokes, sketches, scripts, or comedic articles, often on a project or contract basis. Freelance comedy writers must be adaptable, meet deadlines, and tailor their comedy style to suit different audiences and formats. They often pitch ideas, collaborate with other creatives, and revise material based on feedback. This role requires creativity, a strong sense of humor, and the ability to work independently.

How do Freelance Comedy Writers typically find consistent work and build relationships with clients or production teams?

Freelance Comedy Writers often secure projects by networking within the entertainment industry, pitching their ideas to comedy shows, websites, or production companies, and maintaining an active portfolio of their work. Building long-term relationships with clients or teams involves delivering quality material on tight deadlines, being receptive to feedback, and demonstrating a unique comedic voice. Many writers also collaborate regularly with other writers, producers, or performers, which can lead to referrals and repeat opportunities. Consistency and professionalism are key to gaining trust and recurring assignments in this competitive field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Comedy Writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Comedy Writer, you need strong creative writing skills, a sharp sense of humor, and experience crafting comedic content for various formats. Familiarity with industry-standard word processing tools, script formatting software like Final Draft, and digital publishing platforms is highly valuable. Outstanding communication, adaptability, and self-motivation help you stand out when pitching ideas and meeting tight deadlines. These skills are crucial for producing engaging, marketable comedy while collaborating effectively with clients and editors in a competitive freelance environment.
More about Freelance Comedy Writer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Comedy Writer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Comedy Writer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Comedy Writer jobs? The most popular types of Comedy Writer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Comedy Writer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Comedy Writer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Comedy Writer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Comedy Writer jobs are:
Freelance Comedy Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Comedy Writer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 26% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,412 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Freelance Content Producer - LA

Upright Citizens Brigade

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$140K/yr

Contractor

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Company Description

The Upright Citizens Brigade is home for all things comedy. Whether you’re interested in writing, performing, becoming a stronger public speaker, or just love seeing comedy, UCB has you covered! Our highly trained faculty represents the best writers and performers working in comedy today. The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre was founded by Matt Besser, Amy Poehler, Ian Roberts, and Matt Walsh in 1999 and operates Theaters and Training Centers in New York & Los Angeles with Austin and Pittsburgh on its way.

Job Description

Upright Citizens Brigade is seeking freelance Content Producers to create short-form promotional content for the UCB comedy brand across social platforms and digital channels. This role is hands-on and execution-focused: producing, shooting, editing, and delivering multiple pieces of content each week that promote live shows, special events, and the theater brand overall.

This is a 3-month contract role ideal for someone who can operate independently, move quickly, and create polished comedy-forward content with minimal oversight.

Contract Details

  • 3-month contract

  • Based in Los Angeles

  • Some evening and weekend availability required for live show coverage

Responsibilities

  • Produce approximately 3 promotional content pieces per week from concept through final delivery under the supervision of the Executive Director

  • Shoot and edit content for:

    • Live comedy shows

    • Theater promotions

    • Special events and projects

  • Capture footage in live performance environments

  • Edit short-form video content optimized for social platforms

  • Manage projects from pre-production through final delivery

  • Coordinate with theater leadership, performers, and marketing staff

  • Maintain organized media workflows, file management, and delivery schedules

  • Create graphics and design elements as needed

  • Identify opportunities for recurring content formats and audience engagement

  • Adapt quickly to changing priorities and production needs

Qualifications

  • Experience producing, shooting, and editing digital promotional content

  • Strong editing skills with fast turnaround capability

  • Comfortable working independently in live event environments

  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

  • Strong comedic sensibility

  • Experience creating sizzle reels / trailers for comedy

  • Familiarity with social-first content and platform best practices

  • Proficiency with production and editing tools such as Adobe Premiere, CapCut, Final Cut, Photoshop, Canva.

  • Experience capturing live comedy, theater, entertainment, or event content is strongly preferred


Additional Information

Ideal Candidate

  • Self-directed and highly organized

  • Strong creative instincts with an understanding of comedy pacing and tone

  • Able to balance speed with quality

  • Comfortable collaborating while also taking ownership of execution

  • Interested in comedy, entertainment, and digital audience growth

To Apply

Please submit:

  • Resume

  • Portfolio or reel

  • Examples of short-form promotional or social content

    • Note: File uploads limited to 2 MB per file. If you have larger files, please share a link to a digital storage folder in your application/CV

  • Availability for the contract period beginning June 1st, 2026

- UCB is an equal opportunity employer.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.