5261 contract writer jobs found

everything you need to know about contract writers.

Good writers are always in demand. A company’s ability to effectively communicate internally with employees, and externally with customers and business partners is a key success factor. 

A contract writer working within an administration support role can mean many things. You could be hired to write internal communications, instruction guides and manuals, marketing material, technical documents and help with many other types of content projects. Contract writers can also work under a number of employment agreements. They can work on contract, by the project and full time. 

average contract writer salaries in the U.S.

Contract writer salaries will vary based on experience and location, with the median salary coming in at about $57,000 per year.. Your starting salary and maximum salary will depend largely on your level of experience and the type of work you are doing. Experience and quality work samples can help increase the salary you can command. 

One of the key ways to boost your earning potential is to work for multiple companies. Working on a number of projects allows you to increase your overall salary and have career flexibility. Many contract writers work full time and take on freelance projects on the side. 

what contract writer jobs entail

Contract writers' jobs can vary based on your employee agreement. Most work in-house in an office setting with the possibility of working remotely. Contract writers can work on contract, freelance, part time or full time. You will report to a project manager or department manager. 

Part of your job will include conducting research, meeting with people internally and externally and sitting in on meetings related to the writing project on which you are working. Additional hours may be required to meet tight deadlines. 

your day-to-day tasks

Writing is only one part of a contract writer’s role. Contract writers need to have detailed knowledge of what they are writing, work collaboratively with others within the organization and ensure what they write is aligned with business goals and objectives. Here are some of the tasks included in contract writers’ responsibilities:

• Writing content.
• Researching content ideas.
• Meeting and interviewing people with insights into writing projects.
• Proofreading and editing.
• Creating content outlines.
• Strategizing with key stakeholders.
• Revisions and edits.
• Working with copy editors and translators.
• Collaborating with marketing, HR and legal to ensure content meets specifications.

More specific tasks will be assigned based on the content of the project assigned and company specifications. 

where you can work

Good content writers are needed by every company, especially to support human resources and administrative tasks. Popular industries for contract writers include marketing, sales, communications, technology and business services. Jobs are also available in many other industries. Contract writer positions are available in cities across the country. However, you may be able to work remotely, depending on the company. This opens the door to job opportunities outside of where you live. 

what you bring to the table

Contract writers are required to have a diverse skill set to support their writing abilities. You need to be a strong communicator, insightful and have experience with the subject matter you are writing about. Here are some of the highly desirable skills companies look for in contract writers:

• good writing samples and a track record of success
• experience writing about specific subject matter related to the business
• the ability to write clear, concise and engaging copy
• strong attention to detail
• the ability to follow detailed instructions
• excellent communication skills
• a strong team player
• the ability to work under tight deadlines
• a creative mindset
• the ability to write about a variety of types of content 
• experience working with a variety of word processing software tools and applications

Specific technical or business skills may be required, depending on the hiring company. 

training and certifications

While there are no specific educational requirements for contract writers, most hiring companies require candidates to have a college degree in communications, business administration, marketing, English or other related fields. Expect hiring companies to request writing samples or require you to write a sample piece as part of your application. Companies want experienced writers who have had success and are experienced in their industry. 

where your career is headed

Contract writers have diverse career options. There is never a shortage of companies looking for great writers to help them with business, marketing and communications. Some contract writers move into content management roles or other related roles in administration and marketing. 

Are you a writer? Looking to take the next step in your career? Contact Randstad USA today to explore your writing career options.

Looking to add a contract writer to your team? We can help. Contact us today to find great candidates for the role you need to fill.