15 different writing careers

Do you have a way with words? If the idea of writing stories, creating content or teaching literature sparks your interest, then you might consider a career in writing. 

Writing has always been a good career choice, with lots of opportunities for those who can do it well. Today, with communications in all forms expanding across all industries, there are more types of writing careers than ever before. Whether your preferred writing style is narrative, technical, funny, salesy or something more niche, there’s a diverse range of jobs for you to explore. 

In this article, we cover what a career in writing entails, different types of writing roles, and the average salaries for some of the most common writing careers.

What is a writing career? 

A writing career is a professional pathway where you use your written communication skills to create ‘content’ for different audiences and platforms. You might write articles, novels, blogs, web copy, grant applications, script or legal papers – and these are just a few examples.

To build a successful writing career it goes without saying that you need good excellent communication skills, plus creativity, attention to detail, critical thinking, and the ability to work autonomously. It also helps to be flexible and adaptable, as most writing jobs involve receiving feedback, making revisions, and generally being receptive to critique.

Different types of jobs for writers

There’s a wide variety of roles in writing that go beyond novel authorship and creative writing. Here’s an overview of some of the most common jobs that require writers.

1. Content writer 

Content writers write for online platforms like websites and social media. That content can be in the form of web pages, blogs, videos, podcast scripts or emails. They usually have to work to tight deadlines and be able to take complex ideas or topics and explain them in an easy-to-understand way. Content writers can work internally for companies like marketing agencies, media outlets, and organisations with a large digital component, or externally as freelancers creating content for multiple clients at once. 

A typical day as a content writer would include: 

• Researching topics
• Writing a high volume of words, across a variety of content types (web pages, blog posts, social media captions, etc.)
• Reviewing content for style and grammar
• Editing and proofreading
• Integrating keywords and links

For this role, you need to have strong knowledge of grammar and punctuation, creativity, knowledge of trends, and good research skills. Successful content writers will have the ability to write across a wide range of channels and media. Attention to detail is also crucial for editing and proofreading. Time management skills are essential so that deadlines are met.

Qualifications required: no formal qualifications needed, but a bachelor’s degree in communication or journalism may be beneficial, as this is a highly competitive field.

Average salary range: $65,000 to $80,000 

2. Content strategist 

A content strategist plans, creates, edits and publishes website content based on a company’s goals, like increasing brand awareness or driving conversions or clicks. Part of the planning process includes analysing data and market research to create strategies that bring in new customers or get more traffic through to a sales funnel.  

A content strategist’s day would include tasks such as: 

• Developing content calendars
• Researching SEO keywords
• Analysing content performance
• Managing social media campaigns
• Liaising with content writers
• Reporting performance to leadership/clients

While this role requires good writing and editing skills, it’s more important to be able to come up with creative concepts. Knowledge of marketing and social media trends is essential, as are data-analysis skills for interpreting results and measuring the success of content strategies. Strong communication skills are also a must, for collaborating with team members and presenting ideas and performance reports to stakeholders. This role requires high attention to detail, as content strategists need to manage multiple projects and deadlines at once.

Qualifications required: a degree in communications or digital marketing, or proven experience in the field.

Average salary range: $75,000 to $95,000  

3. Communications officer 

A communications officer is responsible for maintaining a brand’s image – it’s a role tied to public relations. They assist with the company’s communication activities under the direction of the communications or public relations manager, creating content that adheres to brand guidelines. They work with in-house or third-party designers, writers, videographers and ad agencies, making sure all creative campaigns maintain the brand’s tone of voice and messaging.

Daily tasks for a communications officer typically include: 

• Writing and editing copy (press releases, social media captions, newsletters, etc.)
• Juggling multiple content timelines
• Supporting public relations activities
• Managing social media and website content calendars
• Working on the organisation’s communication strategies

Skills needed for this role include: excellent writing, editing and proofreading abilities, strong organisational and time management skills, campaign ideation, and event organisation. It’s important to have experience with CRM databases, email marketing software and social media analytics dashboards. 

Qualifications required: a degree in a related field such as communications, marketing, public relations or journalism. 

Average salary range: $75,000 to $95,000  

4. English teacher 

English teachers specialise in teaching curriculum English to highschool students, from years 7 to 12. Classes cover reading and analysing classic and contemporary literature, creative writing practice, essay writing, screenplay reading, and more. In addition to their subject expertise and technical writing knowledge, English teachers must be skilled in keeping students engaged and accommodating different learning styles, as well as communicating with colleagues and parents. 

Tasks as an English teacher include:

• Planning and delivering English lessons
• Assessing students’ reports and work on writing assignments
• Writing reports on student learning and progress
• Staff meetings
• Parent-teacher interviews
• Organising extra-curricular activities
• Engaging students in young writers’ competitions

The skills required to be an English teacher include excellent communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to adapt teaching style to meet diverse student needs, and strong organisational skills to plan and deliver lessons. In order to mark and correct student work, teachers need technical English grammar abilities and in-depth knowledge of popular literature. Being detail-oriented and comfortable in public speaking are also essential skills to have. 

Qualifications required: most teachers study a four-year bachelor of education, but you can also get into teaching by completing a bachelor’s degree, then a one-year graduate diploma in teaching or a two-year master of teaching.

Average salary range: $95,000 to $105,000 

5. Content marketer 

A content marketer helps plan and execute an organisation’s content strategy, and reports to a content marketing manager. They make sure that the content (blogs, videos, social media posts, etc.) produced is high quality, engaging and relevant to the target audience. They are similar to content writers, but have more to do with strategising and planning (using confidential company data), so are more likely to work in-house at a company than as a freelancer. 

Day-to-day tasks for a content marketer may include:

• Researching the audience 
• Analysing data from previous campaigns
• Defining topics and formats
• Managing production or creating content
• Auditing the online content of competitors
• Creating editorial calendars

Some of the skills required for this role include writing and editing, though a large proportion of this role is creative strategy. The role also requires you to be detail-oriented to ensure content is error-free and on brand. Being able to use content management systems and analytics tools is also essential.

Qualifications required: bachelor’s degree in marketing, English, communications or a related field. 

Average salary range: $95,000 to $110,000

6. Copywriter

Catchy slogans, fast-paced TV ads and captivating marketing copy – this is the work of a copywriter. Copywriters create the words behind marketing and ad campaigns, which must meet the client’s objectives and speak to the right target audience for the desired result. In an ad agency environment, they usually team up with a graphic designer, who they’ll work with to produce pitch ideas and execute campaigns. An in-house copywriter for a large company will generally work with marketing teams, design teams and other stakeholders to create copy across all customer-facing channels.

A typical day as a copywriter includes: 

• Researching products
• Writing copy according to client (or internal) briefs
• Liaising with designers
• Creating copy for different media platforms
• Receiving and implementing feedback
• Presenting ideas to stakeholders 
• Coming up with product names, slogans, copy for packaging and any other words the company or client needs

Skills required for this role include strong written communication, research skills, editing skills, and the ability to understand and convey complex information in a clear and engaging way. Copywriters should also be well-read, have excellent general knowledge, have high emotional intelligence and know consumer trends, in order to write copy that connects to customers.

Qualifications required: to work in an ad agency, a bachelor’s degree in a related field is required, followed by AWARD school. To be an in-house copywriter, a bachelor’s degree in communications, writing, or marketing would be best. Freelance copywriters don’t necessarily need a degree or certification, but need a portfolio of work.

Average salary range: $70,000 to $110,000 

7. Publisher 

A publisher prepares and manages the distribution of books, magazines, and other printed materials, working with writers and creators to bring their work to as many readers as possible. Publishers oversee the entire publishing process, from reviewing materials and negotiating publishing terms to managing editors and producers. Publishers also collaborate with design professionals and oversee marketing efforts to promote published works.

Some of a publisher’s daily tasks include:

• Reviewing potential materials
• Meeting with writer, editors, authors and their managers
• Negotiating publishing terms
• Managing production timelines and budgets

Some of the skills in this role include strong communication and negotiation skills, as well as project management and budgeting skills. Publishers must be detail-oriented and able to work well under pressure. Creativity and a passion for storytelling is also important. The publishing field is quite competitive, as there are fewer available roles than people wanting to do them (especially at the larger production houses), so aspiring publishers also need personal attributes like resilience and persistence.  

Qualifications required: a minimum of a bachelor's degree in a related field like English, professional writing, marketing or communications.

Average salary range: $80,000 to $100,000

8. Translator 

A translator converts written documents from one language to another, while maintaining the meaning and tone of the original text. They work across many settings, like education, healthcare, government departments or legal firms. Commercial books – novels, non-fiction, children’s books, etc. – also require translators, to be able to transcreate stories with the same mood and message as the source material.   

Daily tasks for a translator include: 

• Meeting with clients to understand what they need
• Providing quotes based on how long and complex the job is
• Reading or listening to the source material to grasp its meaning and context
• Translating the material into the target language
• Collaborating with editors and designers
• Making revisions

Skills required for this role include fluency in at least two languages, excellent writing skills in both languages, attention to detail, and cultural knowledge and awareness. Translators must also have excellent research skills and be able to work to deadlines. 

Qualifications required: no specific formal qualifications are required, but tertiary qualifications are preferred. An advanced diploma in translating, a bachelor’s in interpreting and translation or a master’s of applied linguistics are all examples of qualifications that can help you follow this path.

Average salary range: $80,000 to $100,000

9. Grant writer 

A grants officer manages and secures funding for an organisation from government agencies and private companies. They find potential grants, write applications for grants, and handle the application process and grant-acquittal requirements after it is obtained. 

Daily tasks include:

• Finding funding opportunities
• Researching grant requirements 
• Writing grant proposals to deadlines
• Managing grant budgets
• Organising documents to explain how grant money was spent. 

The skills needed to be a grants officer include good writing and research skills. They also need strong communication skills, to speak to other parties involved in the grant process. Attention to detail skills are also important to ensure that all grant applications are accurate. Grant writers should have a passion for working in the non-profit sector.

Qualifications required: no formal qualifications are required, however it’s recommended to have a bachelor’s degree or diploma in a relevant field, such as business administration, public administration, or nonprofit management. Depending on the organisation, a background check may be required. 

Average salary range: $80,000 to $100,000

10. Editor 

An editor helps plan and create written material, with the main responsibility being to correct and improve written copy. They give writers advice on content best practices, advise on story ideas and make sure the finished product is well-structured, consistent in style and language, and engaging. Editors work across all areas of print and online publishing, for media channels, for government, and in film and television, both as permanent employees and as freelancers. Their jobs often include proofreading, fact checking and sub-editing.

An editor’s daily tasks include: 

• Editing copy messaging to be in line with brand guidelines
• Ensuring that copy is written in the right tone
• Formatting layout
• Correcting errors in grammar and spelling
• Simplifying complex language
• Checking for legal issues like plagiarism
• Fact checking

Skills required for this role include strong editing and writing skills (technical English grammar knowledge), attention to detail, effective communication with managers and writers, and the ability to work well under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously. 

Qualifications required: most editors start out as writers, so you would likely need tertiary qualifications in professional writing or journalism to launch a career with a permanent entry-level role (the minimum of a Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification such as Certificate IV in professional writing and editing or a bachelor’s degree.) Editing for print requires technical knowledge of software like InDesign and Illustrator as well as print publishing knowledge. Online editing requires technical knowledge of CMS platforms like WordPress, plus G Suite and Microsoft programs. 

Average salary range: $85,000 to $125,000

11. Social media manager 

A social media manager is responsible for creating the online presence of a product, brand or individual across a variety of social media platforms. The role involves creating and curating content, engaging with online communities, developing strategies to increase engagement and measuring how effective campaigns were. A social media manager is often seen as the ‘voice of the company’.

A social media manager’s day is diverse and fast paced, and includes tasks like:

• Creating content tailored to different platforms like Instagram or Facebook (writing captions, shooting and editing video, etc.)
• Monitoring social media analytics to track campaign performance
• Creating social media strategies 
• Measuring return on investment 
• Scheduling posts 
• Engaging with the audience and monitoring comments
• Maintaining a content calendar
• Reporting on performance
• Pitching ideas to stakeholders
• Liaising with influencers and other content partners
• Managing social media budgets

A social media manager needs advanced skills in communication: with company stakeholders of all levels and with the public. They also need design skills, research skills, data analytics, and budgeting knowledge. Transferable skills – being adaptable, detail-oriented, organised and creative – is also helpful in this field. They also need to have a sound understanding of how different platforms work to create engaging content that resonates with the target audience.

Qualifications required: no formal qualifications needed, but would be helpful, as there is high competition for these types of roles. It would be beneficial to have qualifications in marketing (particularly social media strategy), public relations or communications. You would also need proven abilities in managing a successful social media account, even if it’s your own. 

Average salary range: $70,000 to $90,000 

12. Technical writer 

A technical writer is someone who creates documents that explain complex ideas or processes in a simple and understandable way. They often work on manuals, textbooks or multimedia products, especially for educational or corporate purposes. 

Technical writer’s tasks may include:

• Researching and gathering technical information from subject-matter experts
• Using information to create documents like instruction manuals, guides, reports, articles and white papers
• Proofreading and fact checking of documents
• Reviewing and editing documents based on feedback from stakeholders

Technical writers need excellent writing skills, research abilities and knowledge of the subject matter. They may also need knowledge of certain technical skills and requirements, specific to a certain industry. Soft skills like attention to detail, good communication and time management are also important. 

Qualifications required: a formal qualification in your specialist field is usually required to work as a technical writer.

Average salary range: $90,000 to $110,000

13. Reporter 

A reporter is a news journalist. They investigate and gather information about current affairs, sports, travel, and other areas of interest, then share that information with the public through some form of media: newspapers, magazines, online platforms, etc. They may also write scripts for radio or television broadcasts. Reporters keep people informed about what’s happening in their community and around the world. 

A reporter’s day is varied and can include: 

• Researching stories
• Conducting interviews with sources
• Attending press conferences and events
• Writing articles
• Collaborating with editors to ensure accuracy and quality of content

Reporters need to work well under pressure, meet deadlines, and work fast in the field. Skills needed to be a successful reporter include writing and storytelling, research abilities, interviewing and observation. Reporters should have journalistic integrity, critical thinking skills, and the ability to talk to and connect with people from all walks of life. 

Qualifications required: formal qualifications are usually required as they teach critical technical knowledge and reporting techniques. Getting a bachelor of journalism and studying bachelor of media/communication with a journalism major are the two most common routes.

Average salary range: $70,000 to $85,000 

14. Director of communications 

A director of communications is in charge of an organisation’s overall messaging to the public. For a smaller company, this role might also include internal communications, but usually a communications director focuses only on external, public-facing campaigns. They oversee the promotion of the brand, manage the company’s public reputation through PR activities, look for opportunities to market the company, and often personally represent the company at corporate or industry events.

Daily tasks for this role include: 

• Overseeing an organisation’s entire public relations communications strategy
• Overseeing marketing activities and campaigns (though marketing may be a separate department to PR)
• Overseeing, the production of all customer-facing collateral (press releases, websites, newsletters, etc.) to boost brand awareness
• Meeting with stakeholders and reporting on PR reach and performance 
• Liaising with media
• Liaising with commercial partners to create PR opportunities
• Organising PR events
• Managing the company’s involvement in industry events 

Being a director of communications is a senior leadership role that requires advanced skills in all elements of communication, stakeholder management, data analysis, product expertise in their field, and knowledge of marketing trends.

Qualifications required: tertiary qualifications in communications or a related field, such as a degree in communications, marketing, public relations or journalism. At least 10 years’ experience in PR or marketing – the more related experience you have, the less your qualifications matter, though an MBA or some kind of business diploma would be advantageous.

Salary range: $115,000 to $250,000+

15. Journalist 

A journalist investigates, researches and writes articles or news stories for newspapers, magazines, TV and other media platforms. Similar to a reporter, they gather information by conducting interviews and doing research. However, their articles may be longer or be in a specialised area, like science, business or international affairs. They provide more context and subjectivity to current affairs than a reporter does, through feature writing, opinion pieces and investigative journalism (reporters usually just relay bare facts). They work closely with editors and sometimes other journalists (when working on collaborative articles). 

A journalist’s day may include:

• Researching and planning stories 
• Conducting interviews with sources  
• Engaging in field work like on-the-ground investigation or gathering first-hand accounts
• Writing their stories 
• Fact checking their work to ensure accuracy 
• Editing and reviewing their own work

To be a good journalist, you need skills in researching, interviewing, writing, critical thinking, communication and time management. You also need to be adventurous and curious, and confident talking to people as well as working alone. Good journalists have a high degree of integrity and the ability to be open-minded and unbiased. They need good storytelling skills and a strong ‘voice’.  

Qualifications required: most employers prefer a minimum of a degree such as a bachelor of journalism or bachelor of communication with a journalism major, though formal qualifications aren’t always required for freelance jobs. In order to get freelance work, you will need to show a hiring editor a portfolio of published work, in addition to well-thought-out story ideas. 

Average salary range: $60,000 to $90,000 

If you’ve got a talent for writing and you’re prepared to work on your technical skills, there are countless roles out there where you can make money from your passion for words. Whether you prefer the excitement of journalism, the predictability of technical writing, or the challenge of a role as an educator, your writing skills can set you up for a rewarding and well-paid career. Consider your interests, personal attributes, and the type of writing you enjoy, and you can create a career plan that suits your abilities and passions. 

FAQs 

Is writing a well-paid job? 

Yes, writing can be a well-paid job, especially if you work in advertising copywriting, technical writing or journalism for well-known media titles (or you write a bestseller!) Salaries tend to start low, but rise steadily the more experience you accrue and the more skills you can offer (like writing for different channels/formats, editing, proofreading, etc.) Location and industry also affect salaries.

Is writing a good career path? 

If you love writing, then it can be a rewarding career path. Because writing is a versatile skill, it offers the opportunity to work in diverse industries and roles, as well as the ability to have a positive impact through your words.

What is the best job for writers? 

The best job for a writer depends on your personal interests and abilities. Some writers may enjoy roles that call for a lot of creativity, such as novel writing or content creation, while others may prefer more structured writing, such as technical writing or grant writing. If you like variety in your days, you might get into reporting, journalism or editing.

Do I need a specific degree to become a writer? 

No, becoming a writer doesn’t strictly require a degree. But it is a highly competitive field, and tertiary studies will improve your technical knowledge and overall writing ability, so it’s helpful to have a degree in a relevant area. With formal education as a foundation, you’re in a better position to get a job with a reputable company that will give you experience. However, if you don’t have a degree, you can build a successful career as a writer through practice, work experience and networking. 

Is there a demand for freelance writers? 

Yes, there is a demand for freelance writers, especially in online content creation. There are a lot of organisations and publications looking for talented writers to create engaging content for their websites, blogs and social media. Although print publishing is more competitive, freelance writers are also in demand to provide stories for newspapers and magazines, generally at higher pay rates. 

What skills are essential for success in a writing career? 

Essential skills for a writing career include: 

• Strong writing skills
• Creativity
• Research skills
• Attention to detail
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Communication skills
• Ability to work independently
• Integrity and reliability

How can I build a strong portfolio as a writer? 

You can build a strong portfolio as a writer by contributing articles to publications (online or print) or volunteering to write for various organisations. Another way to build your portfolio is to create your own blog or website where you can showcase your work and hone your skills. To start a portfolio of published articles, pitch editors at publications with story ideas (their websites will have information on how to pitch.) Have writing samples ready to share if you don’t have published articles yet.

Is it important to specialise in a specific writing style? 

While specialising in a specific writing style can help you stand out or work in a niche, it can also limit the type of work you get. Different writing projects call for different tones and voices, so the ability to be versatile and adaptable in your writing style could be more beneficial, depending on what your goals are. 

What are the biggest challenges aspiring writers face?  

Some of the biggest challenges people wanting a career in writing can face include:

• competition,
• rejection, and 
• self-doubt. 

Some areas of professional writing can be competitive, so in addition to writing talent, you also need resilience, persistence and a commitment to ongoing learning.