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Horror Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

LA 411

Executive Producer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

The short film is fiscally sponsored by From the Heart Productions (so we can receive tax deductible donations) and recently won the Platinum Award from the Sci‑Fi and Horror Festival. It's been ...

TrueShort

Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Projects may include animation, cinematic storytelling, experimental formats, comedy, action, sci-fi, horror, romance, kids & family, and more. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys storytelling ...

TrueShort

Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$250 - $350/day

Projects may include animation, cinematic storytelling, experimental formats, comedy, action, sci-fi, horror, romance, kids & family, and more. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys storytelling ...

TrueShort

AI Filmmaker

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

Projects may include animation, cinematic storytelling, experimental formats, comedy, action, sci-fi, horror, romance, kids & family, and more. We're looking for artists who are excited by ...

All JobsHorror JobsHorror Jobs in California

Horror information

See California salary details

$21.7K

$97.2K

$151K

How much do horror jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for horror in California is $97,224.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $117,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a horror writer?

Horror writers are authors who specialize in creating stories designed to scare, unsettle, or provoke fear in their readers. They use suspense, supernatural elements, psychological tension, and often disturbing themes to evoke emotional reactions. Horror writers might work on novels, short stories, scripts, or even video games, and their work can range from subtle psychological horror to graphic and intense tales. Their stories are meant to entertain, thrill, and sometimes challenge readers' perceptions of fear.

What are some common challenges faced by writers specializing in the horror genre?

Writers in the horror genre often face the challenge of keeping their stories fresh and genuinely frightening, as audiences can become desensitized to common tropes. Balancing suspense with believable characters and plots is essential to avoid clichés. Additionally, horror writers may need to research psychological triggers and cultural fears to create impactful narratives, which requires sensitivity and creativity. Collaborating with editors and beta readers can help ensure that the material resonates while maintaining originality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a horror writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Horror Writer, you need strong creative writing skills, a deep knowledge of the horror genre, and often a background in literature or creative writing. Familiarity with writing software (such as Scrivener or Microsoft Word) and understanding of publishing platforms are typically used. Exceptional imagination, the ability to build suspense, and adaptability to audience preferences are key soft skills in this role. These competencies are important to craft compelling, chilling stories that engage readers and succeed in a competitive market.

What is a horror job?

A Horror job typically involves work related to the horror genre in media, entertainment, or themed attractions. This can include roles such as horror writers, filmmakers, special effects artists, haunted house actors, or video game developers specializing in horror. These jobs focus on creating eerie, suspenseful, and frightening experiences for audiences.

What is the difference between Horror vs Makeup Artist?

AspectHorrorMakeup Artist
Required CredentialsSpecial effects makeup certifications, training in prostheticsCosmetology license, makeup certification
Work EnvironmentFilm sets, haunted houses, theater productionsBeauty salons, film/TV sets, special events
Industry UsageFilm, television, haunted attractionsFashion, entertainment, events
Common Search/ComparisonHorror makeup techniques, horror effectsMakeup styles, beauty techniques

Horror professionals focus on creating terrifying and realistic special effects makeup for films, haunted houses, and theater, often requiring special effects skills and prosthetics. Makeup artists have a broader scope, working on beauty, fashion, and entertainment projects, with certifications in cosmetology. While both roles involve makeup application, horror specialists emphasize special effects for horror themes, whereas makeup artists focus on aesthetic beauty and style.

What are the most commonly searched types of Horror jobs in California?

The most popular types of Horror jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Horror jobs in California?

For Horror jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Horror jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Horror jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Horror jobs?

Cities in California with the most Horror job openings:

Horror jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horror job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,224 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Line Producer / UPM for SAG Low Budget Psychological Horror Feature

LA 411

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Line Producer / UPM for SAG Low Budget Psychological Horror Feature

This is a Contracted position in the field of Film / Motion Picture Production , located in Los Angeles, CA .

The employer is Darkbox Entertianment.

Please note: clicking "Apply" will direct you to apply through ProductionHUB.

We are hiring a Los Angeles-based Line Producer / UPM for a contained scripted psychological horror feature being produced under the SAG-AFTRA Low Budget Agreement. We are looking for someone with experience in independent feature production who can help evaluate the scope of the project, build or refine the budget and schedule, advise on production logistics, and support the project as we move toward prep and principal photography. The film is currently in development and early prep, with casting and department head outreach underway. We are targeting principal photography in November 2026, with exact prep and shoot dates still being finalized.

Experience

Experience as a Line Producer, UPM, or Production Manager on scripted independent features. Strong Los Angeles production experience, including crewing up local productions and building reliable department-head teams. Familiarity with SAG-AFTRA Low Budget productions and the practical realities of independent feature production. Ability to evaluate script scope, create or refine budgets, build schedules, advise on crew size, and identify cost-saving production strategies. Established network of Los Angeles crew and vendors, with a clear understanding of which department heads and crew members work well together. Experience managing prep, production logistics, locations, crew communication, payroll coordination, production paperwork, and day-to-day problem solving. Track record on professionally run indie features, not ultra-low-budget student or hobby productions.

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