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Obituary Writer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Obituary Writer information

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$13

$38

$66

How much do obituary writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for obituary writer in the United States is $38.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $47.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Obituary Writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Obituary Writer, you need excellent writing, research, and interviewing skills, often supported by a background in journalism or English. Familiarity with word processing software and content management systems is typical, as well as understanding editorial guidelines and deadlines. Sensitivity, empathy, and strong communication help build trust with grieving families and ensure respectful storytelling. These skills are crucial for crafting accurate, heartfelt obituaries that honor lives and provide comfort to loved ones.

Is obituary writer a job?

Yes, an obituary writer is a professional who creates obituaries to honor and inform about deceased individuals. This role often requires strong writing skills, research abilities, and sensitivity to the subject matter, and may be employed by newspapers, online publications, or funeral homes.

How much do you get paid to write an obituary?

Obituary writers typically earn between $15 and $50 per obituary, depending on factors such as experience, publication, and complexity. Freelance writers may charge per piece or by the word, while staff writers often receive a regular salary or hourly wage.

How to become an obituary writer?

To become an obituary writer, strong writing skills, attention to detail, and the ability to conduct research are essential. Many obituary writers have backgrounds in journalism, English, or related fields, and some gain experience through internships or freelance work. Familiarity with obituary formats and sensitivity to personal stories are also important for success in this role.

How do I get started writing an obituary?

To become an obituary writer, start by researching obituary formats and writing styles, and develop strong writing and interviewing skills. Gaining experience through internships or freelance assignments can help build a portfolio, and familiarity with journalistic ethics and sensitive communication is essential for this role.

What are some common challenges an Obituary Writer faces when gathering information for a piece?

Obituary Writers often need to delicately balance accuracy with sensitivity, as they gather personal stories and details from grieving families and friends. It can sometimes be challenging to obtain complete and accurate information, especially if loved ones are emotional or memories conflict. Maintaining professionalism and empathy during interviews, while meeting tight publication deadlines, is crucial. Additionally, writers must ensure that the obituary honors the deceased's life respectfully while adhering to editorial guidelines.

What is the difference between Obituary Writer vs Obituary Writer?

AspectObituary Writer
CredentialsTypically requires journalism, writing, or communications background; no specific certifications needed
Work EnvironmentWorks for newspapers, online publications, or funeral homes, often in an office setting
Industry UsageCommonly employed in media outlets or funeral service industries
Job FocusResearching and writing respectful obituaries that honor individuals' lives

Obituary Writers primarily focus on creating respectful, accurate obituaries for media outlets or funeral homes. They require strong writing skills and familiarity with journalistic standards. Their work environment is typically office-based, and their role is essential in the funeral and media industries. The main difference from related roles is their emphasis on obituary content creation, rather than broader journalism or writing tasks.

What are obituary writers?

Obituary writers are professionals who compose written tributes summarizing the lives of people who have passed away. Their work involves gathering information about the deceased, interviewing family members and friends, and crafting narratives that honor the individual's life, achievements, and legacy. Obituary writers may work for newspapers, funeral homes, or as freelancers, and their writing helps inform the public and provide comfort to grieving families. Their goal is to create an accurate, respectful, and memorable account of a person's life.
More about Obituary Writer jobs
What states have the most Obituary Writer jobs? States with the most job openings for Obituary Writer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Obituary Writer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Obituary Writer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Obituary Writer job openings in the United States as of June 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 $81,001 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

$56K/yr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

This position is limited to Veterans, Gold Star family members and Active-duty spouses desiring to serve a two-year paid Congressional Fellowship as part of the House of Representatives. Selected Fellows will work directly for a Member of Congress or other House officer as part of an office team. Qualifications:

Additional Requirements
Detailoriented; excellent organization skills; strong computer skills; ability tocomplete projects within timelines and under minimal supervision. Ability towork well under pressure and maintain a professional and courteous workdisposition; ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment inhandling sensitive information; ability to manage multiple taskssimultaneously. High School Diploma required.  Effective verbal and written communicationskills are necessary.

Required Documents
VETERANS must submit a Resume and DD-214 (Member COPY 4)

GOLD STAR applicants require a Resume and one of the following:
**For members who died on active duty: DD-1300 or DD-2064, accompanied by a Line of Duty Determination; OR
**For members who died of service-connected disability: Last DD-214 issued to the veteran, and VA eligibility letter.
**Proof of dependency on the Veteran: DD-1172 (PAGE 2); OR
**Proof of relationship (obituary, birth certificate, etc...) to the Veteran.
ACTIVE-DUTY SPOUSES must submit a Resume and a copy of the FRONT and BACK of Dependent ID card

Please do not contact or submit applications to congressional offices.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER