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Horror Writer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Horror Writer information

See California salary details

$13

$38

$57

How much do horror writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for horror writer in California is $38.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.87 and $48.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a horror writer?

A Horror Writer is a professional who creates stories, novels, screenplays, or other content designed to evoke fear, suspense, and tension in readers or audiences. They use elements like supernatural forces, psychological terror, or gruesome themes to craft engaging and unsettling narratives. Horror Writers may work in publishing, film, television, or gaming, and often conduct research to develop realistic and immersive horror experiences.

What are some common challenges faced by horror writers, and how can they be managed?

Horror Writers often face the challenge of maintaining originality while delivering genuinely frightening and engaging stories, as the genre relies heavily on strong atmosphere and emotional impact. Writer's block and balancing commercial demands with creative vision can also be common hurdles. Many writers overcome these by staying up-to-date with genre trends, participating in writer workshops, and seeking feedback from critique groups. Additionally, working closely with editors and publishers can help refine their stories and adapt to industry expectations, making persistence and adaptability valuable assets in this career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a horror writer?

To thrive as a Horror Writer, a strong foundation in creative writing, storytelling, and a deep understanding of horror genre conventions is essential. Familiarity with word processing software, manuscript formatting tools, and sometimes specialized writing or editing platforms like Scrivener or Grammarly is common. Standout soft skills include creativity, resilience to feedback, time management, and the ability to evoke emotion and suspense. These capabilities are crucial for crafting compelling stories, meeting deadlines, and resonating with audiences in a competitive literary market.

What are the most commonly searched types of Horror Writer jobs in California? The most popular types of Horror Writer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Horror Writer jobs in California? For Horror Writer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Horror Writer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Horror Writer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Horror Writer jobs? Cities in California with the most Horror Writer job openings:
Infographic showing various Horror Writer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,311 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Production Assistant (Character Escort) - Halloween Horror Nights

Universal Studios Hollywood

Los Angeles, CA

$23/hr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Universal Studios Hollywood rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 58 rated theme parks


Job description

Production Assistant (Character Escort) - Halloween Horror Nights

Apply now Job no: HN26-PA-GEN
Work type: Seasonal
Location: Los Angeles
Categories: USH - Operations, Entertainment

Benefits:
  • Complimentary admission to Universal Studios Hollywood and all Universal Theme parks
  • Earn complimentary tickets for your friends and family
  • Discounts on food and merchandise
  • Special events for employees (preview nights for new attractions/events)
  • Building lifelong friendships
  • Resume building workshops
  • Growth opportunities 
  • Wellness programs
Responsibilities:
  • Interact with guests and may have guest recovery situations, take photos for guest and commit to the Character Illusion.
  • Review daily set sheet and snapshot. Perform Character Set as assigned. Escort Character and Character's vehicles throughout the Theme Park.
  • Manage crowds to ensure effective photo operations. Maintain Character set time, and Character placement & quality.
  • Promotes and provides extraordinary guest service for both internal and external guests; answers questions and offers information in a courteous manner. Seeks to provide assistance to guests.
  • Understands and demonstrates the proper use of safety practices and ensures department standards are maintained and safety policies for the Park upheld.
  • Monitor and maintain a safe and secure environment for both team members and guests of all ages, following all company guidelines and protocols.
  • Identify, de-escalate, and resolve conflicts or disturbances professionally and effectively to maintain a positive atmosphere.
  • Provide a positive and welcoming experience for guests of all ages while maintaining composure during difficult interactions.
  • Maintain a high level of trust and integrity to promote a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for customers and colleagues of all ages.
  • Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
  • Must be 18 years old or older
  • Must possess strong organizational & communication skills both verbal & written. 

Job Demands:

  • Must be able to walk or stand for extended periods of time
  • Must regularly lift and/or move up to 25lbs, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 lbs with assistance
  • The noise level is generally moderate to high
  • Team Members are subject to a variety of weather conditions, including but not limited to: heat, sun exposure, cold, and inclement weather. Depending on the assigned location, work can be almost exclusively outdoors

Schedule:

  • Must be available to work at least 4 days per week throughout the peak seasons to include a rotation of mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays - with shifts as early as 6am starting, and working hours until 4am for closing HHN shifts.

Pay:

  • $19 per hour (After 1,000 hours worked, pay increases to $23/hr)

Additional Information:

NBCUniversal's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law. NBCUniversal will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with relevant legal requirements, including the City of Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative For Hiring Ordinance, where applicable.

NBCUniversal will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories, or arrest or conviction records, in a manner consistent with relevant legal requirements, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative For Hiring Ordinance, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, and the California Fair Chance Act, where applicable.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access nbcunicareers.com as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by emailing Staffing.Support@udx.com 

Advertised: 21 Jul 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:

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