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Freelance Script Writer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Freelance Script Writer information

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$7

$23

$32

How much do freelance script writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance script writer in Virginia is $23.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance script writer do?

A freelance script writer creates scripts for various media such as films, television shows, commercials, video games, or online videos on a project-by-project basis. Unlike staff writers, freelancers work independently and are hired by clients or production companies to develop original stories, adapt existing material, or revise existing scripts. Their responsibilities often include brainstorming ideas, drafting and editing scripts, and collaborating with directors or producers to meet the project's needs.

What Does a Freelance Script Writer Do?

As a freelance script writer, your duties vary somewhat depending on the needs of your clients, though for the most part you focus on the writing and editing of scripts for video productions. You can write and pitch a screenplay to an agent, who will attempt to sell it to a film production studio, television studio, or other media production company. Some clients hire freelance script writers to help improve existing scripts as part of a writing team, while advertising agencies and commercial production companies hire scriptwriters to create the scripts for video or audio advertising. If a studio or producer hires you or accepts your script pitch, you work on the project on a contract basis.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Script Writer, you need excellent storytelling abilities, strong command of language, and a solid understanding of script formatting and structure, usually supported by a relevant degree or portfolio. Familiarity with screenwriting software such as Final Draft or Celtx and knowledge of copyright basics are typically required. Creativity, adaptability, and effective communication set standout writers apart in collaborating with clients and meeting diverse project needs. These skills are crucial for producing compelling scripts that resonate with audiences and satisfy client expectations in a competitive freelance market.

How do freelance script writers typically collaborate with clients and production teams during a project?

Freelance script writers often work closely with clients, directors, and producers to develop scripts that align with the project's vision. Communication is usually conducted through virtual meetings, emails, or collaborative platforms, where feedback and revisions are exchanged. Writers may be involved in brainstorming sessions, table reads, or script workshops to refine their work. Maintaining flexibility and openness to feedback is essential, as scripts often undergo multiple drafts based on collaborative input. Building strong professional relationships and clear communication channels helps ensure a smooth workflow and successful outcomes.

What is the difference between Freelance Script Writer vs Screenwriter?

AspectFreelance Script WriterScreenwriter
CredentialsWriting experience, portfolio, sometimes film/TV coursesFilm/TV writing background, often with industry training
Work EnvironmentFreelance, remote or client sitesStudio, production company, or freelance
Employer/IndustryClients across various industries, including advertising, entertainmentFilm, TV, streaming platforms
Search/Comparison IntentSeeking freelance writing opportunities, script projectsSeeking professional script development for media

Freelance Script Writers typically work independently on diverse projects for various clients, often remotely. Screenwriters focus on creating scripts specifically for film or television productions, often within the entertainment industry. While both roles require strong writing skills, screenwriters usually have industry-specific experience and may work within production environments, whereas freelance script writers have more flexibility and diverse client bases.

More about Freelance Script Writer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Script Writer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Script Writer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Script Writer jobs in Virginia? For Freelance Script Writer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Script Writer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Script Writer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Freelance Script Writer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Freelance Script Writer job openings:
Freelance Script Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Script Writer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,996 per year, or $23.1 per hour.
Production Editor

Production Editor

Association for Talent Development (ATD)

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Current ATD Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account.
Come work at a place where innovation and teamwork come together to support the most exciting missions in the world!
Job Description:
About the Role
ATD's Production, Editorial, and Creative department is responsible for editing, designing, producing, and distributing ATD's publications, including 15+ books annually, two bi-monthly periodicals, research reports, and white papers. Additionally, the department supports the editorial and creative needs of all ATD business lines, including Marketing, Education, Conferences, Membership, Enterprise, and Global.
As a Production Editor at ATD, you will report to the Senior Manager, Editorial Services and will be responsible for managing the editorial production workflow of ATD Press books and research reports at all stages, from copyediting through delivery of final files to ensure completion of projects on time.
About ATD
The Association for Talent Development (ATD) is the premier membership organization for professionals in the learning and talent development field. Our mission is to create a world that works better by empowering professionals to develop talent in the workplace. Through training programs, membership, globally recognized certifications and events. We support individuals and organizations in talent development, to perform at the highest level.
What You'll Do
  • Project managing publications through the production life cycle, ensuring that ATD's books and research reports are published on time and meet our quality standards.
  • Working closely with authors and various in-house departments including editorial, design, and production to troubleshoot and resolve problems that arise and ensure all deadlines are met.
  • Preparing manuscripts for typesetting.
  • Contracting with freelance copyeditors, proofreaders, and indexers, and reviewing their work.
  • Reviewing copyedited manuscripts and reconciling copyeditor and author markups; and reviewing, routing, and collating corrections for all stages of manuscripts and proofs.
  • Copyediting, proofreading, and routing metadata and cover materials.
  • Creating and maintaining publishing timelines in Wrike for each title.
  • Creating scripts for audiobooks.
  • Copyediting and proofreading publications and other long-form content as required.

What We're Looking For
  • 3 years' experience editing, proofreading, and writing.
  • Bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or equivalent degree.
  • Proven editorial skills, including the ability to edit, rewrite, proofread (using formal proofreading marks and practices), and quality check at a variety of publishing stages, including manuscripts, page proofs, and printer proofs.
  • Familiarity with Chicago Manual of Style and accustomed to working with specific style guides.
  • Excellent project management skills, including scheduling, time management, and risk management.
  • Detail and accuracy oriented and able to balance many projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while maintaining high standards of quality.
  • Works comfortably with basic computer programs, including tracked changes in Word and the commenting tools in Adobe Acrobat.
  • Knowledge of InDesign and InCopy.
  • Experience using Wrike or similar project management tools.

Why Join Us
  • Opportunity to contribute to the creation and publication of books, research reports, and other resources that advance the talent development profession.
  • Collaborative and mission-driven team environment.
  • Exposure to all aspects of the publishing process, from manuscript development through final production.
  • Opportunity to work with authors, editors, designers, and subject matter experts across the organization.
  • Opportunity to grow and develop professionally within a well-established organization.

Meet the Editorial Team
  • The Editorial Services team is a collaborative team that supports the broader Production, Editorial, and Creative department.
  • We are responsible for editing ATD's books, research reports, education content, marketing emails, promotional materials, website content, and event content.

Work Environment
This role is based in Alexandria, VA and follows a hybrid work model, offering a mix of in-office collaboration and flexibility.
Our office is located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria on King Street - just steps from the Metro, waterfront, and a vibrant mix of shops and restaurants. The environment is energetic and collaborative, providing regular opportunities to connect with teammates and leadership.
We are committed to employee growth and development, offering professional development resources, dedicated learning time, and organization-wide learning initiatives. We also foster a strong sense of community through team events, recognition programs, and company gatherings.
If this opportunity aligns with your experience and interests, we'd love to hear from you!
Benefits:
Employment at ATD isn't just about a job - it's about our employees' well-being. Our ATD LiveWell program provides a variety of essential and fun benefits based on areas of Physical, Financial, Social, and Career health. Look at some (but not all) of what we offer and see for yourself!
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Paid Time Off (PTO, Personal Days, Sick Time, Sabbaticals, Learning Hours)
  • 403(b) plan options with 6% company match and immediate vesting on employee contributions
  • Flexible Spending and Health Savings accounts
  • Unlimited Professional Development through ATD (classes, certifications, resources, etc.)
  • Wellness library and events (virtual and in-person)
  • On-site gym
  • Basic and supplemental life insurance coverages
  • Accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity
  • Company paid Teladoc visits
  • New parent benefits
  • Short- and long-term disability
  • Employee discount program (Tickets at Work, Verizon, Hertz, and more)
  • Pet insurance

EEO Statement:
ATD is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, age, color, national origin, sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Need Assistance:
ATD is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations for any applicant with a disability. If you are disabled and need assistance participating in the application or hiring process please contact us at recruiting@td.org or you may call us at 1.800.628.2783.

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