Writers and Authors
Originate and prepare written material, such as scripts, stories, advertisements, and other material.
How to read this profile
BLS projects U.S. employment for Writers and Authors to decrease by -0.3% between 2024 and 2034, from 140,300 to 139,900 jobs. Its estimate of 11,900 annual openings includes replacement needs, so it does not represent current vacancies, contract postings, or freelance demand. The wage ($76,910), education (Bachelor's degree), and related experience (None) figures on this profile describe typical U.S. employees. O*NET skills describe the occupation; they do not assess an individual worker's proficiency.
Base employment (2024)
140,300
Projected employment (2034)
139,900
Projected change (2024–2034)
-0%
Annual openings (projected average)
11,900
Pay & Preparation
$76,910
Bachelor's degree
None
Long-term on-the-job training
Essential Skills
Writing (5/5) • Writing (4.75/5) • Reading Comprehension (4.25/5) • Reading Comprehension (4.12/5) • Speaking (3.88/5) • Speaking (3.75/5)
O*NET describes occupational requirements; these ratings do not measure current job-posting frequency or an individual worker’s proficiency.
BLS projections are long-term estimates; annual openings include growth and replacement needs and are not current vacancies.
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