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Professional Screenwriting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Script Write

Tustin, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... screenwriting, or marketing content writing is a plus Benefits * Competitive part-time compensation * Opportunity to work in a creative and dynamic environment * Professional growth and development ...

... professional development, technical writing, blogging, article composition, essay writing, copy-editing, indexing, business writing, children's literature, screenwriting, creative writing ...

... professional development, technical writing, blogging, article composition, essay writing, copy-editing, indexing, business writing, children's literature, screenwriting, creative writing ...

... professional development, technical writing, blogging, article composition, essay writing, copy-editing, indexing, business writing, children's literature, screenwriting, creative writing ...

... professional experience in cinema production for all phases of the filmmaking process, including pre-production, production, and post-production. Applicants in screenwriting, sound design, post ...

High-level writing skills. and professional writing experience, particularly in a visually-related field such as comics writing or screenwriting. * Excellent communication and organization skills.

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Professional Screenwriting information

What is professional screenwriting?

Professional screenwriting is the craft of writing scripts for films, television shows, or other visual media with the goal of having the work produced and distributed. Professional screenwriters create compelling narratives, develop characters, and format scripts according to industry standards. They often collaborate with producers, directors, and other creatives, and may work on original ideas or adapt existing material. Success in this field typically requires strong storytelling skills, a deep understanding of screenplay structure, and perseverance in a competitive industry.

What is the difference between Professional Screenwriting vs Screenplay Writer?

AspectProfessional ScreenwritingScreenplay Writer
CredentialsOften requires industry experience, writing samples, and sometimes film or writing degreesTypically similar, with emphasis on writing skills and portfolio
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with producers, directors, and studios; often in office or studio settingsWorks independently or freelance, submitting scripts to producers or studios
Industry UsageUsed broadly in film, TV, and streaming industries for professional projectsPrimarily used for individual script submissions or freelance work

Professional Screenwriting involves creating scripts for industry projects with a focus on collaboration and meeting industry standards. A Screenplay Writer may work independently, focusing on writing and submitting scripts. While both roles require strong writing skills, professional screenwriters often have more industry experience and work within larger production teams.

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

To thrive as a Professional Screenwriter, you need strong storytelling abilities, mastery of screenplay structure, and a solid understanding of industry formatting standards, often supported by a degree in film, creative writing, or equivalent experience. Familiarity with screenwriting software such as Final Draft or Celtx is commonly required. Creativity, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with producers, directors, and other creatives. These skills and qualities are vital for crafting compelling scripts that resonate with audiences and meet the demands of the entertainment industry.

What are some common challenges professional screenwriters face when collaborating with producers and directors?

Professional screenwriters often encounter challenges such as balancing creative vision with the practical needs or preferences of producers and directors. It is common to receive feedback that requires significant script revisions, sometimes under tight deadlines. Navigating these requests while maintaining the integrity of the story can be demanding, but strong communication and adaptability are key. Successful screenwriters build collaborative relationships and approach feedback as an opportunity to enhance their script and meet production goals.
More about Professional Screenwriting jobs
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What states have the most Professional Screenwriting jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Screenwriting jobs include:
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Infographic showing various Professional Screenwriting job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Tenure Track Faculty - Film Production

Tenure Track Faculty - Film Production

California State University

Sacramento, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago


California State University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Tenure Track Faculty - Film Production

Apply now Job no: 556422
Work type: Instructional Faculty - Tenured/Tenure-Track
Location: Sacramento
Categories: Unit 3 - CFA - California Faculty Association, Tenured/Tenure-Track, Full Time, Faculty - Communications/Journalism

COLLEGE: Arts and Letters

DEPARTMENT: Communication Studies

POSITION TITLE: Assistant Professor - Film Production

DEPARTMENT SUMMARY:

The Film Program at Sacramento State serves a diverse body of students who have varied interests in the contemporary practice of filmmaking. We are dedicated to addressing cinema both in the tradition of a critical liberal arts education and as a professional pathway. We seek to give students a solid footing in contemporary film techniques, histories, and theories, pushing students to explore the social and cultural implications of cinema language and practice.

Sacramento State is one of the 23 California State University campuses. Our program is part of Sacramento State's Communication Studies Department and is housed within the University's College of Arts and Letters. Our Film Program seeks to prepare our students to have an impact in a creative environment that requires collaboration, adaptation, and leadership. We recognize that the world in which we live, and work is shaped by an ever-increasing array of visual and auditory information. To prepare them for this rapidly changing media landscape, we challenge our students to be critical thinkers and explore their unique voices through creative, cinematic storytelling.

For more information about our department: https://www.csus.edu/college/arts-letters/communication-studies/

Why Sac State: https://www.csus.edu/academic-affairs/faculty-advancement/why-sac-state.htm

POSITION DETAILS:

The Film Program at Sacramento State seeks a tenure track Assistant Professor who specializes in contemporary approaches to narrative filmmaking, with an emphasis on short film storytelling. The position would start in the 2026-27 academic year.

JOB DUTIES:

  • Teach upper and lower division film production, screenwriting, and directing courses 

  • Develop curriculum for upper and lower division courses centered on short film practices 

  • Lead student advising, recruitment, support part-time faculty, curriculum development, and other related activities aimed at fostering growth of the Film Program  

  • Pursue excellence in teaching effectiveness as evidenced through student evaluations, peer evaluations, and meeting program learning outcomes 

  • Engage in scholarly and creative activities as evidenced through peer-reviewed exhibition/distribution of film work, development of film projects, and scholarly research appropriate to the discipline 

  • Engage in active service at the Department, College, and University levels in the form of committee work and peer support 

  • Engage actively with the local and regional community through service and scholarship  

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • EarnedMFA or equivalent terminal degree in the artsby August 2025  

  • Evidence of teaching, mentoring, or training experience in academic or professional settings 

  • Evidence of creative practice in contemporary narrative, hybrid, or documentary short filmmaking  

  • Experience with the narrative filmmaking process 

  • Evidence of filmmaking practice, exhibition, and distribution of work  

  • Demonstrated commitment to teaching excellence in a diverse and inclusive environment  

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Three (3) years teaching or educational experience at the collegiate level or professional setting 

  • Experience as a contemporary storyteller using digital cinema technologies and contemporary distribution strategies 

  • Three (3) years of experience working with digital filmmaking equipment and software, screenwriting techniques, and directing narrative production  

  • Evidence of ability to teach primary film tools, equipment, and processes in a diverse and inclusive environment 

  • Demonstrated record of fundraising for film production projects 

  • Evidence of having directed and exhibited / distributed one or more narrative (fiction) films 

APPLICANT INSTRUCTIONS:

Review of applications will begin on April 13, 2026. Position is open until filled. Applications for employment require:

  1. Letter of Interest: One page statement addressing the position and the institution as it relates to your experience. 

  1. Diversity Statement and Teaching Philosophy: One page statement describing your pedagogical approach especially as it applies to teaching diverse student populations. Specifically, how you balance the technical, aesthetic, and collaborative aspects of film production. Additionally, describe how you translate your artistic practice into your teaching. 

  1. Current Curriculum Vitae: Please also include a link to your website if applicable. 

  1. Unofficial transcript demonstrating degree required for position.
  2. Portfolio: Upload a document that includes links to ONE (1) 5-minute video sample reel AND ONE (1) complete short film 10-60 minutes long. Include a brief summation of the contents and your role for each project. 

  3. Student Work: Links to three student films and a brief description of course objectives and project learning outcomes for each. 

  4. Syllabus Sample: Syllabus you have authored for an upper division course. This may be a proposed course or one you have already taught. Film production is preferred. 

  5. Supplemental Materials: Applicants are welcome to submit publications or other evidence of their expertise in film production. 

  6. References: Three contacts who can speak to your professional qualifications. Include email and telephone information. 

 
 
 
 

OTHER SPECIFICS ABOUT THE POSITION:

The classification annual salary range for this position is $64,860 - $143,928; the anticipated annual starting salary is $74,642.

About Sacramento State

Sacramento State is located in the heart of California's capital city, five miles from State Capitol. The lush, 300-acre campus is situated along the American River, close to numerous bike trails and other recreational areas. Sacramento, also known as the "Farm-to-Fork Capital," is one of the most ethnically diverse and livable cities in the country, with a population of half of a million. Sacramento State proudly serves as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI), and is recognized by the California Legislative Assembly as a Black-Serving Institution. The university enrolls around 31,000 students from the Greater Sacramento Region, throughout California, across the nation, and around the world. Our 1,800 faculty and 1,500 staff are committed to meeting our mission:

"As California's capital university, we transform lives by preparing students to lead, serve, and succeed. Sacramento State will be a welcoming, caring, and inclusive leader in education, innovation, and engagement." As the regional hub of higher education, Sacramento State is dedicated to learning and student successteaching, research, scholarship and creative activityjustice, diversity, equity and inclusionresource development and sustainabilitydedicated community engagement, and wellness and safety.

As evidenced by the values embedded in our Hornet Honor Code, Sacramento State is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all faculty, staff, students, and guests are welcome and valued.  Our commitment is more than simply ensuring that our campus is free from bias and discrimination, but is one devoted to celebrating many diverse identities, life experiences, and perspectives that enrich our community, teaching and learning. 

To learn more about why you should join the Hornet Family, please visit the Why Sac State? page.

Equal Employment Opportunity
Sacramento State is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and has a strong institutional commitment to the principle of diversity in all areas. We consider qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, genetic information, medical condition, marital status, veteran status, or disability. Sacramento State hires only those individuals who are lawfully authorized to accept employment in the United States.

It is the policy of Sacramento State to provide reasonable accommodations for qualified persons with disabilities who are employees or applicants for employment. If you need a disability related reasonable accommodation as part of the application and/or interviewing process, visit https://www.csus.edu/administration-business-affairs/human-resources/benefits/reasonable-accomodation.html.

The University is committed to creating an education and working environment free from discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. For more information on mandatory training for new employees, visit https://www.csus.edu/people-climate/human-resources/learning-development/support/csu-learn.html.  

Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act Notification: 

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act, the current Annual Security Report (ASR) is available for viewing at https://www.csus.edu/clery . 

The ASR contains the current security and safety-related policy statements, emergency preparedness and evacuation information, crime prevention and sexual assault prevention information, and drug and alcohol prevention programming. The ASR also contains statistics of Clery Act crimes for Sacramento State for the last three (3) calendar years. Paper copies are available upon request by emailing the Clery Director at clery@csus.edu.

Under the Clery Act, this position may be designated as a Campus Security Authority (CSA) depending upon the role on campus and/or job duties. If this position is identified by the Director of Clery Compliance as a CSA position, you will be notified via email and will be assigned the appropriate training in CSU Learn.

Background Check Disclaimer

A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position with California State University, Sacramento. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or continued employment of current California State University, Sacramento employees who apply for the position.

COVID19 Vaccination Policy

Effective May 2023, per the CSU COVID-19 Vaccination Policy, it is strongly recommended that all California State University, Sacramento employees who are accessing office and campus facilities follow COVID-19 vaccine recommendations adopted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) applicable to their age, medical condition, and other relevant indications. 

Out of State Employment

Per CSU-wide policy (HR2021-04), all faculty who will begin initial employment (or return from a 12-month break in service) on or after January 1, 2022 are required to perform their work from within the State of California. Faculty hired prior to January 1, 2022 must be available to perform work in the State of California if their assignment is in-person.

Eligibility Verification

Candidate will be required to provide official transcripts of their highest degree earned and must furnish proof of eligibility to work in the U.S.. California State University, Sacramento is not a sponsoring agent for non-tenure track (temporary/lecturer) faculty for H1-B Visa.

California State University, Sacramento is currently not sponsoring applicants for H-1B employment that are subject to the $100,000 fee established by the "Presidential Proclamation: Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers" issued on September 19, 2025. Applicants are responsible for determining the applicability of the fee.

Advertised: Mar 25 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:

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About California State University

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California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

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