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Poet Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bartender

Arlington, VA · On-site

$10/hr

COMPANY BENEFITS Busboys and Poets offers competitive pay and benefits including a wide choice of health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan with employer match of ...

Restaurant Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

Busboys and Poets is seeking an ambitious, hardworking, people‑centric individual with proven experience managing across departments as a Front‑of‑House Manager. In this fast‑paced, dynamic ...

New

Deep knowledge of fiction writing craft including plot structure, character development, dialogue, point of view, setting, and voice, plus poetry forms, creative nonfiction techniques, and genre ...

Deep knowledge of fiction writing craft including plot structure, character development, dialogue, point of view, setting, and voice, plus poetry forms, creative nonfiction techniques, and genre ...

Creative Writing Tutor

Salem, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of fiction writing craft including plot structure, character development, dialogue, point of view, setting, and voice, plus poetry forms, creative nonfiction techniques, and genre ...

Deep knowledge of fiction writing craft including plot structure, character development, dialogue, point of view, setting, and voice, plus poetry forms, creative nonfiction techniques, and genre ...

Creative Writing Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of fiction writing craft including plot structure, character development, dialogue, point of view, setting, and voice, plus poetry forms, creative nonfiction techniques, and genre ...

Showing results 21-40

Poet information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$18

$35

How much do poet jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for poet in Virginia is $18.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a poet?

Poets are writers who express ideas, emotions, and stories through the art of poetry. They use language creatively, employing techniques like rhyme, rhythm, and metaphor to evoke feelings and paint vivid imagery. Poets may write in various styles and forms, ranging from traditional sonnets to free verse, and can perform their work at readings or publish it in books and magazines. Their work often reflects personal experiences, social issues, or universal themes.

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

To thrive as a Poet, you need a deep command of language, a strong sense of literary devices, and often a background in creative writing or literature. Familiarity with word processing software and digital publishing platforms is commonly required, while participation in writing workshops or earning an MFA can be advantageous. Creativity, emotional intelligence, and resilience are key soft skills that help a poet connect with audiences and persist through rejection. These skills and qualities are essential for producing impactful poetry, building a readership, and sustaining a career in the literary arts.

How do poets typically collaborate with editors and publishers during the publishing process?

Poets often work closely with editors and publishers to refine their manuscripts prior to publication. This collaboration may involve revising poems for clarity, tone, or overall cohesion based on editorial feedback, as well as discussing the layout and sequencing of poems within a collection. Communication is key, as poets need to be open to constructive criticism while also advocating for their artistic vision. Understanding the typical workflow—submitting drafts, receiving notes, and reviewing proofs—can help poets navigate the process more smoothly and build lasting professional relationships.

What is the difference between Poet vs Lyricist?

AspectPoetLyricist
CredentialsOften no formal credentials, but literary or creative writing background helpsOften no formal credentials, but experience in songwriting or music industry preferred
Work EnvironmentLiterary publications, poetry readings, personal projectsMusic industry, songwriting teams, recording studios
Industry UsageLiterature, publishing, arts festivalsMusic, entertainment, media

While both poets and lyricists craft words to evoke emotion, poets focus on standalone literary works, whereas lyricists write words specifically for songs. The roles overlap in creativity and language use, but their primary audiences and contexts differ.

Can you have a career as a poet?

A career as a poet involves creating and publishing original poetry, often through books, magazines, or online platforms. Success typically requires strong writing skills, a unique voice, and persistence, as many poets supplement income through teaching, editing, or related fields.

Is poet a good place to work?

A career as a poet involves creative work that can be rewarding but often offers variable income and job stability. Many poets work freelance, publish their work, or teach, requiring strong writing skills and persistence. Job opportunities may be limited and competitive, depending on the industry and location.

What jobs can poets get?

Poets can pursue careers as creative writers, authors, or editors, often working in publishing, media, or education. They may also find opportunities in content creation, scriptwriting, or literary consulting, utilizing strong writing and storytelling skills. Many poets work freelance or in part-time roles, and some may teach poetry or writing classes at schools or workshops.
Infographic showing various Poet job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,670 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

$10/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

We are always looking for passionate, hospitality-driven, people-persons! Do you want to serve delicious food in a diverse space where you truly be yourself? As a bartender, you will work in a team-oriented, fast-paced, guest-centric environment where we want to see you succeed and ultimately grow, both personally and professionally. If this sounds like the vibe you're looking for, we hope you will apply!
Job Type: Variable

Our top bartenders are making between $25 and $30 an hour with a guarantee that you will never make less than $17.50 per hour. Base pay is $10 an hour + tips!

COMPANY BENEFITS

Busboys and Poets offers competitive pay and benefits including a wide choice of health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan with employer match of 100% of the first 4% and 50% of the next 2%, 1 week sick leave per year, paid parental leave, a company paid life insurance policy, pet insurance and so much more!
WHY WORK FOR US

Join a diverse space: 81% of our total workforce identifies as a person of color, 45% of our total workforce identifies as female and 5% of our workforce identifies as a person with disabilities. Our executive team also represents gender diversity, ethnic diversity, sexual orientation, and more. Men and women equally represented as well as various cultural and religious backgrounds. We strive to provide an inclusive workplace where you can bring your authentic self to work.

Grow with us: Over 60% of our managers were promoted from within to their existing role from line staff or from Front-of-House manager to Assistant or General Manager. Our entire Executive Team consists of existing employees who showed promise and were promoted into leadership positions.

Work with latest technologies: Striving to be a leader in our industry, we utilize a broad spectrum of technologies including our tech forward training program, employee payroll system, a self-managed tip distribution system, an events and catering platform, inventory management system, our POS Toast and much more!

Happy staff: Busboys and Poets is always looking for the next best way to engage with our staff. This includes raffles, anniversary boxes, an employee dedicated web-based forum and information site, blog and podcast.

Job duties include but are not limited to:

  • Setting up the bar daily or during transition for the PM shift
  • Guiding guests through menus while demonstrating a thorough knowledge of our items
  • Taking accurate orders and working with other tribe members to serve food and beverages that exceed guest expectations
  • Check patrons' identification to ensure that they meet minimum age requirements for consumption of alcoholic beverages.
  • Mixing alcoholic beverages and preparing coffee drinks such as lattes and signature drinks.
  • Provide excellent customer service with a smile! This includes 90 second greeting times, 3 minute-3 bite check in and closing down service by collecting payment and making it an experience that keeps guests coming back.
  • Assist in tasks to ensure a clean, sanitized, and safe restaurant including: washing dishes, glassware or other utensils, wiping down all surfaces on the bar and behind the bar, maintaining cleanliness overall and health and food service regulations behind the bar and for bar guests.
  • Assist host or hostess by answering phones to take reservations or to-go orders, and by greeting, seating, and thanking guests, when needed.
  • Taking tables on the floor when bar service is slow or when staffing is short

Qualifications:

  • Must be at least 21 years of age in order to serve alcohol
  • General alcohol knowledge needed
  • Previous experience bartending in a full service restaurant for at least a year
  • Must have weekend availability and work a minimum of 3 shifts per week
  • Must love talking to people!

Busboys and Poets owns and operates 9 multi-concept restaurant, bar, event and bookstore spaces in DC, Maryland and Virginia. Our locations include: 14th & V, 450K, Anacostia, Brookland, Columbia, Hyattsville, Shirlington and Takoma with more on the horizon!