Script Writer for History Channel (Mostly WW2)
Worldwide
I am looking for a skilled historical scriptwriter for a faceless YouTube documentary channel. Details of the channel can be provided. The channel focuses primarily on World War II, although applicants should also have a good understanding of World War I, the Vietnam War, the Cold War and other major 20th-century events. I am looking for someone who is genuinely interested in these topics and enjoys digging into the research. You should be the type of person who gets excited about finding an overlooked detail, understanding why something happened and turning it into a strong story. This is a long-term role, with approximately one script required each week. You need to research and complete all scripts, and provide source links. All major claims, dates, quotations and statistics must be traceable to the supplied sources. Script Length and Payment * Scripts will generally be between 2,000 and 3,500 words. * Payment will normally be between $35 and $75 per completed script, depending on its length, complexity and research requirements. Responsibilities * Research each assigned topic independently * Produce an accurate, engaging and publication-ready script * Provide a complete source list with every submission * Deliver the first draft within seven days * Complete unlimited revisions until approval * Follow the title, angle and editorial direction precisely * Maintain strict historical accuracy * I don't want low effort AI generated scripts that I could get myself with simple prompts. Required Script Structure Scripts must read as narrative documentaries with constant escalating tension, not academic essays, or generic summaries. 1. Hook * Open with a concrete moment, decision, consequence or situation already in motion. * The opening should immediately create intrigue and establish the stakes. Do not begin with broad historical background, dictionary-style explanations or phrases such as “Throughout history.” * The hook may use a compelling question, unexpected fact, unresolved outcome or dramatic historical scene, but must never invent details. * Quickly establish what the video will examine and confirm the promise made by the title and thumbnail. * Introduce the central unresolved question or conflict without revealing the full outcome. 3. Main Narrative * Follow a clear chronological and cause-and-effect structure * Focus on named people, institutions, decisions and consequences * Ensure every paragraph advances the story * Avoid unnecessary background * Use smooth transitions and unresolved questions to maintain interest * Include a meaningful mid-script development that renews tension * Build toward the central decision, revelation, consequence or accountability question The preferred narrative progression is: * Decision, consequence, new constraint, further decision - this is the escalating tension style I'm after. 4. Ending * Resolve the central question or conflict clearly. * Do not repeat the entire script or include a long summary. Scripts must: * Be historically accurate and properly sourced * Distinguish confirmed fact from disputed interpretation * Avoid exaggerated or unsupported claims * Remain clear and accessible without oversimplifying the history * Prioritize storytelling, causality and human decisions over information dumping Requirements * Experience writing YouTube documentary scripts * Strong knowledge of World War II * Knowledge of World War I, the Vietnam War and the Cold War * Genuine interest in military and 20th-century history * Ability to turn complex history into an engaging narrative * Willingness to complete revisions until approval Test Assignment * Shortlisted applicants will be invited to complete a paid test assignment before any long-term contract is awarded. * The test will assess historical accuracy, source quality, narrative structure, originality and ability to follow the required editorial style. * Begin your application with the word overlord to confirm that you have read the complete job description. Please include: 1. Links or attachments to your best relevant writing samples 2. Examples of historical or documentary scripts, where available 3. A brief explanation of your research process 4. The historical subjects and periods you know best 5. A short explanation of why you are interested in this type of history 6. Confirmation that you can deliver a 2,000 to 3,500-word script within seven days 7. Your proposed rate within the stated range 8. Details of any AI tools you use while researching or writing
- Less than 30 hrs/weekHourly
- 6+ monthsDuration
- ExpertExperience Level
$35.00
-
$75.00
Hourly- Remote Job
- Ongoing projectProject Type
Skills and Expertise
Activity on this job
- Proposals:5 to 10
- Last viewed by client:2 hours ago
- Interviewing:0
- Invites sent:0
- Unanswered invites:0
About the client
- United KingdomOrpington8:26 PM
- $2.5K total spent16 hires, 5 active
- EducationIndividual client
Explore similar jobs on Upwork
How it works
Create your free profileHighlight your skills and experience, show your portfolio, and set your ideal pay rate.
Work the way you wantApply for jobs, create easy-to-by projects, or access exclusive opportunities that come to you.
Get paid securelyFrom contract to payment, we help you work safely and get paid securely.
About Upwork
- 4.9/5(Average rating of clients by professionals)
- G2 2021#1 freelance platform
- 49,000+Signed contract every week
- $2.3BFreelancers earned on Upwork in 2020
Find the best freelance jobs
Growing your career is as easy as creating a free profile and finding work like this that fits your skills.
Trusted by