Writers and Authors
Writers and authors originate and prepare written material for various purposes, including scripts, stories, advertisements, and other content. They work in diverse settings such as publishing houses, media companies, advertising agencies, freelance operations, and corporate communications departments. The work involves researching, drafting, editing, and refining written content to meet specific requirements and audiences.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against writers and authors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week might include researching topics, conducting interviews, and drafting initial material. Writers revise and edit their work based on feedback from editors or clients. Some time goes toward administrative tasks like tracking submissions, managing deadlines, and communicating with collaborators. Freelance writers may spend part of their week marketing their services and pitching ideas. Published writers often participate in promotional activities or attend industry events.
Who this work suits
Holland code AEC. Artistic work is creating and designing, with room for self-expression. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy this work if you have strong artistic inclinations and the entrepreneurial drive to promote ideas or build an audience. You tend to be detail-oriented, self-motivated, and able to meet deadlines while maintaining creative standards. You're comfortable with both the solitary work of writing and the collaborative aspects of receiving feedback and revision.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- WRITER EDITOR (PRINTED MEDIA) · National Defense University · Fort McNair, District of Columbia · $102415–$133142
- Technical Writer · Patent and Trademark Office · Alexandria, Virginia · $121785–$158322
- TECH WRITER/EDITOR · U.S. Coast Guard · Elizabeth City, North Carolina · $62640–$81436
- WRITER-EDITOR · Organization of the Joint Chiefs of Staff · Pentagon, Arlington, Virginia · $85447–$158322
- Writer-Editor (Senior) · Patent and Trademark Office · Alexandria, Virginia · $143913–$187093
- Policy Analysis / Writer · U.S. Coast Guard · Washington, District of Columbia · $121785–$158322
- TECHNICAL WRITER-EDITOR · Defense Health Agency · Aberdeen, Maryland · $70623–$91815
- Intern Content Writer - Remote Job · EnthuZiastic · United States · Remote
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $100,320 | $129,300 | $158,020 | 1,050 |
| Maryland | $77,020 | $104,330 | $140,670 | 540 |
| Connecticut | $73,610 | $98,460 | $129,260 | 480 |
| Vermont | $79,920 | $94,430 | $107,590 | 110 |
| Louisiana | $55,860 | $89,520 | $105,970 | 480 |
| California | $75,530 | $86,480 | $127,870 | 8,390 |
| Washington | $65,330 | $85,700 | $109,000 | 770 |
| Massachusetts | $67,770 | $85,260 | $108,030 | 1,350 |
| Virginia | $64,730 | $85,000 | $104,000 | 1,530 |
| New Jersey | $60,610 | $81,590 | $103,120 | 1,180 |
| Oregon | $52,620 | $80,540 | $104,010 | 950 |
| Pennsylvania | $54,030 | $77,410 | $102,480 | 1,080 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Author Accelerator Book Coach Certification — Author Accelerator
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
and 37 more
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against writers and authors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 27-3043.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.