1

Short Film Writer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Brainstorm, outline, write, and assist in development of a 3D animated short film * Research relevant topics surrounding the setting, characters and themes of the story including film inspiration

John Funk Productions (ROSES ON THE VINE) is looking for an Executive Producer collaborator on the short film, AMERICAN FOLK STORY, written and to be directed by John Funk. EP will work with the team ...

Youtube Creator & Educator

New York, NY · On-site +1

$150K - $215K/yr

You'll show people how to make a real ad, cut a real short film or build a real production workflow ... Write, film, edit and finish every video, including screen recordings, on-camera segments and ...

Short Term Disability * Life Insurance * Paid Time Off * Paid Holidays * Employee Referral Bonus ... Demonstrates clear and polite written and oral communication. * Accurately follow verbal and ...

$16.50/hr

Collaborate on planning, shooting, and editing short documentaries and video content Create ... Possess outstanding interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, ensuring clear and ...

$20/hr

Collaborate on planning, shooting, and editing short documentaries and video content Create ... Possess outstanding interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, ensuring clear and ...

Writer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

Experience writing episodic, serialized, short-form, or entertainment-driven content * Ability to ... Passion for film, television, animation, internet culture, and emerging storytelling formats * Self ...

Experience writing episodic, serialized, short-form, or entertainment-driven content * Ability to ... Passion for film, television, animation, internet culture, and emerging storytelling formats * Self ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Short Film Writer information

See salary details

$11

$24

$42

How much do short film writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for short film writer in the United States is $24.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a short film writer do?

A Short Film Writer is responsible for creating the script or screenplay for a short film, typically under 40 minutes in length. They develop the story, characters, dialogue, and structure, ensuring the narrative is compelling and suitable for the condensed format. The writer collaborates closely with directors and producers to refine the script and adapt it to practical filming constraints. Their main goal is to tell a complete and engaging story within a limited timeframe.

What are some common challenges short film writers face when developing scripts within limited runtimes?

Short Film Writers often encounter the challenge of telling a compelling, complete story within a condensed timeframe, typically under 40 minutes. This requires careful selection of themes, efficient character development, and precise dialogue to ensure every scene advances the narrative meaningfully. Balancing creativity with brevity is key, as is collaborating closely with directors and producers to align the script with production constraints. Writers must also be adaptable, frequently revising drafts based on feedback from the creative team.

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

To thrive as a Short Film Writer, you need strong storytelling ability, scriptwriting expertise, and a solid grasp of cinematic structure, often supported by a background in film studies or creative writing. Familiarity with industry-standard screenwriting software like Final Draft or Celtx, and understanding of screenplay formatting, are critical technical skills. Creativity, adaptability to feedback, and strong communication help writers collaborate effectively with directors and producers. These skills ensure that scripts are compelling, professionally formatted, and suited for successful production in the fast-paced world of short filmmaking.

How much do short film writers get paid?

Short film writers typically earn between $0 and $1,000 per project, with pay often depending on the budget, experience, and whether the project is paid or unpaid. Many short film writers work on a volunteer basis or for credit, especially in independent filmmaking, but some paid opportunities exist for those with industry connections or a strong portfolio.

How to become a short film writer?

To become a short film writer, develop strong storytelling skills through writing practice and studying screenwriting techniques. Create a portfolio of short scripts, collaborate with filmmakers or join filmmaking communities, and gain experience by submitting work to festivals or online platforms. Familiarity with screenwriting software and understanding film production processes can also enhance your prospects.

What cities are hiring for Short Film Writer jobs?

Cities with the most Short Film Writer job openings:

What states have the most Short Film Writer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Short Film Writer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Short Film Writer jobs?

For Short Film Writer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Short Film Writer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 29% Temporary, and 28% Nights. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,519 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

The 48 Hour Film Project - Cleveland Horror & Sci Fi

Cleveland, OH • On-site

Greater Cleveland Film Commission
11 - 50 employees

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

The 48 Hour Film Project - Cleveland Horror & Sci Fi

Gather Teammates – Friends/Colleagues/Family!

Write, shoot and edit a short film based on the genre you draw at The Kickoff and the required character, prop, and line assigned for your city.

Premiere YOUR film!

Celebrate with Awards, including Audience Award.

The winner of Best Film goes to Filmapalooza in March 2027.

Try something new, level up your filmmaking, and join our community.

Sign up your team today! Make a movie!

DEADLINES:

Early Bird - Tuesday, September 15th, Cost: $158/team

Regular - Friday, October 9th, Cost: $178/team