Remote writing jobs are more popular than ever, and for good reason. Whether you’re just getting started, freelancing on the side, or building a full-time writing career, remote work offers flexibility, freedom, and the chance to earn a living doing what you love. But with so many jobseekers competing for opportunities, how do you find the right writing role for your skills and goals? Let’s explore what remote writing jobs look like, what they require, and how you can successfully break in — whether you’re a beginner, a freelancer, or a seasoned professional.
What are Some Common Remote Writing Jobs?
Remote writing jobs — like other remote jobs — let you work from home or anywhere with a stable internet connection. These positions span a variety of industries and include everything from creative and marketing content to highly technical documentation. Some of the most common types of remote writing jobs include:
- Blog and article writing
- SEO and web content
- Copywriting for advertising
- Technical writing
- Grant writing
- Social media writing
- Scriptwriting for video/audio
- Email marketing and newsletters
- Ghostwriting
You’ll find remote writing roles with media outlets, nonprofits, universities, healthcare organizations, tech companies, and beyond. Some positions are part-time or freelance-based, while others offer full-time schedules and employee benefits.
The Demand for Remote Writers
Writing is a core function in nearly every industry. Companies need writers to create everything from training manuals to social media posts — and remote workers are often an ideal fit. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs for writers and authors are projected to grow by 5% from 2023 to 2033. Technical writing roles are expected to grow at a slightly slower rate, at 4%, thanks to increasing demand for complex content in science, tech, and digital industries.
According to the BLS, the median annual wage for writers and authors is $72,270, while technical writers earned a higher median of $91,670. Salaries can vary depending on your experience, industry, and the type of writing you do, but both roles offer strong earning potential — especially for those with specialized knowledge or digital content expertise.
What Skills Do You Need to Succeed?
Strong grammar and spelling are just the beginning. To succeed in remote writing roles, you’ll need a mix of hard and soft skills that help you communicate clearly, meet deadlines, and work independently. Here are a few key skills that will help you stand out:
- Research skills: Especially important for technical, academic, or long-form writing.
- SEO knowledge: Many remote writing jobs involve optimizing content for search engines.
- Adaptability: Writers often switch between tones, audiences, and formats.
- Time management: Remote work requires self-motivation and the ability to meet deadlines without supervision.
- Content management systems (CMS): Knowing how to use platforms like WordPress is a bonus.
Not every writing job will require all of these skills, but building them up over time will open more doors and increase your value as a candidate.
How to Get Started as a Remote Writer
If you’re just starting out, building experience is key. Most remote writing jobs — even entry-level ones — ask for writing samples or a portfolio of work. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t have one yet. You can create writing samples on your own or start building experience through:
- Blogging: Start your own blog or write guest posts for others.
- Volunteering: Offer to write for local nonprofits or community newsletters.
- Freelance projects: Take on small, one-off gigs to build your portfolio.
- Internships or school publications: These can be valuable stepping stones.
As you grow, aim to develop a portfolio that highlights your range and strengths. Include a mix of styles and formats — articles, web copy, product descriptions, or whatever matches your target roles.
What Kind of Jobs are Out There?
Remote writing jobs aren’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on your experience level, interests, and goals, you might find opportunities in a wide range of categories. Here are a few specific ideas to get you started!
Entry-Level Remote Writing Jobs
Getting started can be the hardest part. Entry-level remote writing jobs often still require published work or writing samples, so focus on gaining experience first. Once you have a few solid pieces, you can start applying for titles like:
- Junior content writer
- Blog contributor
- Editorial assistant
- Marketing copy assistant
- Content associate
These roles typically involve drafting articles, web copy, or social media posts under the guidance of a more senior writer or editor.
Part-Time Remote Writing Jobs
Part-time roles offer flexibility and are a great way to build experience or supplement other work. These jobs can be project-based or ongoing and often involve blog posts, newsletters, or content writing for websites. Sample job titles might include:
- Part-time content writer
- Freelance grant writer
- Social media content creator
- Newsletter writer
- Freelance article writer
Many part-time writers juggle multiple gigs or combine part-time work with longer-term contracts for greater income stability.
Remote Technical Writing Jobs
If you have a background in science, engineering, healthcare, or IT, technical writing can be a lucrative niche. These writers translate complex information into clear, accessible documents like:
- User manuals
- Training guides
- Knowledge base articles
- Standard operating procedures
- White papers
Common job titles include:
- Technical writer
- Documentation specialist
- Technical content strategist
- Policy and procedure writer
Certifications in technical writing or experience with tools like MadCap Flare or RoboHelp can boost your qualifications.
Remote Content Writing Jobs
Content writers create materials that inform, entertain, or persuade — usually as part of a brand’s content marketing strategy. This type of writing can span many industries and topics. Typical job titles include:
- Content writer
- SEO content writer
- Web content writer
- Product description writer
- Brand storyteller
These roles often require knowledge of SEO, basic HTML, or CMS platforms like WordPress.
Pros and Cons of Remote Writing Jobs
Like any career path, remote writing has its benefits and challenges. Understanding them upfront can help you prepare for success.
Pros:
- High flexibility and location independence
- Opportunities across industries and subjects
- Creative, fulfilling work
- Strong potential for freelance or full-time income
Cons:
- Can be isolating at times
- Income may be inconsistent (especially with freelance work)
- Deadlines can be tight and workloads unpredictable
- Requires self-discipline and time management
Turn Your Love of Writing into a Remote Career
Remote writing jobs are a solid option for anyone who enjoys working with words and values flexibility. With opportunities ranging from blog writing to technical documentation, there’s something for every skill level and interest. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to deepen your experience, you can build a sustainable, rewarding writing career from anywhere. Take the time to build your skills, showcase your work, and stay curious. The more you write, the more doors will open!
Start Your Remote Writing Journey Today
Looking for flexible, fully remote writing jobs that match your skills and goals? Become a Virtual Vocations member to access our comprehensive, hand-screened database of remote writing opportunities. Whether you’re just getting started or ready for your next big writing role, we’ll help you take the next step — on your terms.
Which one of these remote writing jobs caught your eye? Connect with Virtual Vocations on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube to share your thoughts and tips. We’d love to hear from you!
Original September 2021 article written by Skye Rodgers.
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