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Poetry Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apreva Hospice

Patient Support Volunteer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Reading books, poetry, or magazines aloud * Offer a comforting, consistent presence through regular visits No Experience? No Problem. We welcome volunteers from all walks of life. No prior experience ...

Middlebury College

Instructor of Arabic

Oakland, CA · On-site

This may include poetry, literature, art, music, etc. Qualifications The successful candidate should possess a MA or PhD (ABD with strong credentials may also be considered), strong interpersonal ...

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Poetry information

See California salary details

$9

$27

$64

How much do poetry jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for poetry in California is $27.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $38.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is poetry?

A Poetry job typically involves writing, editing, and performing poems for various audiences or publications. Poets may work as freelance writers, educators, or content creators, contributing to books, magazines, websites, or spoken-word performances. Some poets also teach creative writing, lead workshops, or collaborate with other artists. While full-time poetry careers are rare, poets often supplement their income with other writing-related jobs. Passion, creativity, and strong language skills are essential for success in this field.

What types of career paths or advancement opportunities are available for professional poets?

Professional poets often pursue multiple avenues for career advancement, such as publishing collections, contributing to literary magazines, or obtaining positions as writers-in-residence or creative writing instructors. Many poets also expand their careers by giving readings, leading workshops, or collaborating with artists and organizations on interdisciplinary projects. Some poets secure grants, fellowships, or editorial roles, which further enhance their professional visibility and income stability. Building a diverse literary portfolio and networking within the writing community can open doors to greater recognition and long-term career growth.

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

To thrive as a Poet, you need a strong command of language, creativity, and a deep understanding of literary devices, typically supported by a background in English, literature, or creative writing. Familiarity with word processing software, online literary platforms, and sometimes publication tools is valuable. Excellent communication, openness to feedback, and resilience in the face of criticism are important soft skills that set successful poets apart. These abilities are crucial for producing compelling work, navigating the publishing industry, and building a lasting literary career.

Is there a career in poetry?

A career in poetry involves writing, publishing, and performing poetry, often requiring strong language skills, creativity, and persistence. Many poets work as freelancers, educators, or in publishing, and success can depend on building a portfolio and gaining recognition through readings or competitions.

What jobs can you get with poetry?

Jobs for individuals with poetry skills include poet, creative writer, editor, literary critic, and content creator. These roles often require strong writing, editing, and storytelling abilities, and may involve working in publishing, media, education, or entertainment industries.

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

The most popular types of Poetry jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Poetry jobs?

Cities in California with the most Poetry job openings:

Poetry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Poetry job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 62% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 23% Physical, and 77% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,752 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Visiting Assistant Professor of English (Poetry and Poetics)

Scripps College

Claremont, CA • On-site

$62K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 hours ago

Job description

Description
SCRIPPS COLLEGE
CLAREMONT, CALIFORNIA 91711
VISITING ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF ENGLISH
BEGINNING FALL 2024
Scripps College, a women's liberal arts college with a strong interdisciplinary tradition, invites applications for a visiting assistant professor of English with a specialization in poetry and poetics for the academic year 2024-5. The position is potentially renewable for academic year 2025-26. The successful candidate will teach poetry writing workshops and literary studies classes focused on poetry (field open). The successful candidate will also advise senior theses. The teaching load will be 3-2. PhD is required by start date.
Applicants should submit the following materials online: cover letter, CV, and the names of three references. Letters of recommendation and other materials will be requested for short-listed candidates. The salary for this position will range from $62,100 to $69,000 and will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training. For matters other than the submission of materials, contact Professor Thomas Koenigs, Chair of English at tkoenigs@scrippscollege.edu. Review of applications will begin November 1, 2023, and continue until the position is filled.
Scripps College is one of seven members of The Claremont Colleges consortium located 35 miles east of Los Angeles. In keeping with its ongoing commitment to build and support a diverse and equitable academic community, Scripps College actively encourages applications from women and members of historically underrepresented groups. Preference will be given to applicants committed to improving higher education for underrepresented students.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Scripps College is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, gender, religion, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, medical condition including genetic characteristics, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local law

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