Interested in melding your career with your passion for classic tomes?
You’re about to discover a range of top-notch job options tailored specifically for classic literature enthusiasts. If you’ve always felt more at home in the 19th-century novels of Dickens or the epic poems of Homer, this is your guide to career nirvana.
What Makes a Good Job for People Who Love Classic Literature?
We looked for jobs that:
- Allow for deep intellectual engagement
- Offer opportunities for written expression
- Provide an environment rich in storytelling
- Involve research or historical context
- Let you interact with like-minded literature enthusiasts
Best Jobs for People Who Love Classic Literature
You might think that high-paying jobs in the field of classic literature all require a degree. But guess what? Many of them don’t. With the right skill set and maybe a few specialty certifications, you can still land a job that pays well and lets you indulge in your love for classic literature.
Time to skip the preamble. Let’s jump right into this handpicked list of job ideas for people who love classic literature.
1. Literary Consultant
Average salary: $56,725
A Literary Consultant advises authors, publishers, and agents on the quality and marketability of manuscripts. Sometimes known as a manuscript consultant or book doctor.
Job duties:
- Reviewing manuscripts for content and style
- Offering actionable feedback to authors
- Suggesting edits or revisions
- Advising on publishing routes
- Scouting market trends for genre fit
Job requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Literature, Journalism, or related field
- Minimum of 3 years experience in publishing
- Strong understanding of storytelling elements
- Ability to work under tight deadlines
- Good communication skills
2. Screenwriter
Average salary: $72,110
A Screenwriter creates scripts for films, TV shows, and other visual media. Also known as a scriptwriter or playwright for screen.
Job duties:
- Developing story ideas
- Creating characters and dialogue
- Writing and revising scripts
- Collaborating with directors and producers
- Conducting research for historical accuracy
Job requirements:
- Portfolio with completed scripts or screenplays
- Understanding of screenwriting software like Final Draft
- Ability to work collaboratively
- Strong grasp of plot development and pacing
3. Content Strategist
Average salary: $67,437
A Content Strategist plans and oversees a company’s content needs, often overlapping with roles like Content Manager or Content Editor.
Job duties:
- Researching target audience
- Planning content calendar
- Analyzing content performance
- Coordinating with writers and designers
- Optimizing content for SEO
Job requirements:
- Minimum 2 years of experience in content strategy
- Familiarity with SEO best practices
- Strong analytical skills
- Ability to work well in teams
4. Textbook Writer
Average salary: $68,578
A Textbook Writer creates educational materials for students, usually specializing in a specific subject. Also known as an educational content writer.
Job duties:
- Researching subject matter
- Writing chapters and lessons
- Collaborating with subject experts
- Editing for clarity and style
- Ensuring factual accuracy
Job requirements:
- At least 3 years of writing experience
- Proficiency in research methods
- Good attention to detail
- Strong organization skills
5. Grant Writer
Average salary: $56,542
A Grant Writer specializes in creating persuasive proposals to secure funding from foundations or government agencies.
Job duties:
- Researching grants
- Writing proposals
- Editing drafts
- Submitting applications
- Tracking submissions
Job requirements:
- Minimum 2 years of grant writing experience
- Familiarity with research tools
- Ability to meet deadlines
- Strong writing skills
6. Ghostwriter
Average salary: $63,491
A Ghostwriter writes content credited to another person, often spanning various genres including books, articles, and social media posts.
Job duties:
- Conducting interviews
- Drafting content
- Editing text
- Meeting client deadlines
- Adhering to style guides
Job requirements:
- Proven writing portfolio
- Minimum 2 years of writing experience
- Ability to match client’s tone and style
- Strong research skills
- Good time management skills
7. Script Supervisor
Average salary: $52,781
A Script Supervisor, also known as a “continuity supervisor,” ensures that a film’s visual and story details are consistent from shot to shot.
Job duties:
- Monitoring script during shooting
- Taking notes on set
- Coordinating with director
- Tracking shot times
- Reviewing daily footage
Job requirements:
- Film school degree or equivalent experience
- Proficient in script software like Final Draft
- Strong attention to detail
- Good organizational skills
- Ability to work long hours
8. Audiobook Narrator
Average salary: $25/hour
An Audiobook Narrator brings written material to life through vocal performance.
Job duties:
- Reading scripts
- Interpreting characters
- Recording audio
- Editing minor mistakes
- Meeting deadlines
Job requirements:
- Proven portfolio of vocal work
- Training in voice acting or related field
- Ability to interpret text
- Basic audio editing skills
- Strong reading skills
9. Art Director for Book Publishers
Average salary: $142,765
An Art Director for Book Publishers oversees the visual style and imagery in book publications, sometimes referred to as a Design Director in the industry.
Job duties:
- Directing cover designs
- Coordinating with authors
- Overseeing layout
- Managing design team
- Approving final art
- Setting project deadlines
Job requirements:
- Proven experience in publishing
- Strong design software skills
- Leadership experience
- Good at time management
- Effective communicator
10. Copy Editor
Average salary: $54,563
A Copy Editor polishes written content for errors and coherence, often specialized as manuscript editors or news copy editors.
Job duties:
- Correcting grammar
- Checking facts
- Reworking sentences
- Aligning text with style guide
- Proofreading final copy
Job requirements:
- Experience in editing
- Strong grammar skills
- Attention to detail
- Familiarity with AP or Chicago style guides
- Deadline-oriented
11. Writing Coach
Average salary: $50,225
A Writing Coach helps individuals improve their writing skills, sometimes known as a Writing Mentor or Writing Consultant.
Job duties:
- Assessing writing skills
- Providing feedback
- Creating improvement plans
- Conducting writing exercises
- Tracking progress
- Offering emotional support
Job requirements:
- Professional writing experience
- Teaching or coaching experience
- Strong feedback skills
- Patient and supportive demeanor
- Familiarity with different writing styles
12. Manuscript Reviewer
Average salary: $55,201
A Manuscript Reviewer evaluates and critiques manuscripts, commonly serving as a Beta Reader in less formal settings.
Job duties:
- Reading manuscripts
- Identifying plot holes
- Noting inconsistencies
- Suggesting improvements
- Writing summary reports
- Communicating with authors
Job requirements:
- Previous editorial experience
- Avid reader of the manuscript’s genre
- Detail-oriented nature
- Strong written communication skills
- Ability to meet deadlines
13. Special Collections Librarian
Average salary: $44,000
A Special Collections Librarian manages and curates unique, rare, or specialized materials in a library, sometimes referred to as a Curator of Special Collections.
Job duties:
- Cataloging items
- Assisting researchers
- Preserving materials
- Hosting exhibits
- Acquiring new items
- Conducting tours
- Managing digital records
Job requirements:
- Master’s degree in Library Science
- Previous library experience
- Knowledge of archival practices
- Familiarity with cataloging software
- Good public speaking skills
- Ability to lift up to 40 pounds
- Detail-oriented nature
See, There Are Careers for People Who Love Classic Literature!
From Audiobook Narrator to Art Director for Book Publishers, this list is stacked with top-tier jobs for the bookworm in you.
Got a favorite from the lineup? Share your pick in the comments section.