YouTube Scriptwriter

Posted last week

Worldwide

Summary

YouTube Scriptwriter – Horror, True Crime & Mystery Position Summary We are seeking a highly creative and research-driven YouTube Scriptwriter to produce captivating long-form video scripts focused on horror, true crime, psychological mysteries, unexplained events, and dark historical stories. The ideal candidate has exceptional storytelling abilities, can transform complex research into emotionally compelling narratives, and understands how to maximize audience retention through pacing, suspense, and cinematic storytelling. This role combines investigative research, narrative writing, and audience psychology to create binge-worthy content that consistently drives engagement and viewer retention. ⸻ Key Responsibilities Research & Story Development * Research true crime cases, unsolved mysteries, historical events, folklore, paranormal encounters, and psychological phenomena. * Verify facts using credible sources while identifying compelling narrative angles. * Organize large amounts of information into structured story outlines. * Stay current on trending topics and emerging stories with strong audience potential. ⸻ Script Writing * Write engaging YouTube scripts ranging from 10–20 minutes (approximately 1,500–3,000 words). * Develop compelling openings that capture viewer attention within the first 30 seconds. * Build suspense through strategic pacing, foreshadowing, and cliffhangers. * Balance factual accuracy with emotionally engaging storytelling. * Create memorable endings that encourage discussion and audience retention. ⸻ Storytelling & Audience Engagement * Apply cinematic storytelling techniques including: * Narrative arcs * Emotional tension * Suspense building * Character development * Psychological hooks * Open loops * Write conversational narration optimized for AI voiceovers or human narration. * Maintain consistent tone and pacing throughout each script. ⸻ Content Optimization * Collaborate with editors, voice actors, and thumbnail designers. * Incorporate SEO-friendly keywords naturally into scripts. * Structure scripts for maximum audience retention and watch time. * Adapt writing style based on YouTube analytics and viewer feedback. * Revise scripts based on performance metrics and editorial feedback. ⸻ Preferred Content Categories * True Crime * Serial Killers * Cold Cases * Missing Persons * Psychological Mysteries * Internet Mysteries * Dark History * Urban Legends * Paranormal Encounters * Horror Stories * Survival Stories * Cults and Secret Societies * Unexplained Disappearances * Historical Crimes ⸻ Required Qualifications * Exceptional storytelling and narrative writing skills. * Strong research and fact-checking abilities. * Experience writing long-form YouTube or documentary-style content. * Ability to simplify complex topics into engaging narratives. * Excellent grammar, editing, and proofreading skills. * Understanding of audience psychology and viewer retention techniques. * Ability to meet deadlines while maintaining quality. ⸻ Preferred Qualifications * Experience writing for successful YouTube channels. * Background in journalism, creative writing, history, or criminal justice. * Familiarity with YouTube SEO and audience analytics. * Experience working with AI voice platforms. * Knowledge of copyright and fair use principles. * Understanding of documentary storytelling techniques.

  • More than 30 hrs/week
    Hourly
  • 6+ months
    Duration
  • Expert
    Experience Level
  • $5.00

    -

    $10.00

    Hourly
  • Remote Job
  • Ongoing project
    Project Type

Contract-to-hire opportunity

This lets talent know that this job could become full time.
Learn more
Activity on this job
  • Proposals:10 to 15
  • Last viewed by client:last week
  • Interviewing:
    7
  • Invites sent:
    0
  • Unanswered invites:
    0
About the client
Member since Nov 12, 2022
  • United States
    Atlanta4:01 AM
  • $446 total spent
    5 hires, 4 active
  • 17 hours

Explore similar jobs on Upwork

Part-Time Screenwriting Course DeveloperHourly‐ Posted 6 months ago
English
Elearning Video
Creative Writing
Writing
Script Writer - Luxury Real EstateHourly‐ Posted 5 days ago
Urdu
Content Writing
Creative Writing
English
Real Estate

How it works

  • Post a job icon
    Create your free profile
    Highlight your skills and experience, show your portfolio, and set your ideal pay rate.
  • Talent comes to you icon
    Work the way you want
    Apply for jobs, create easy-to-by projects, or access exclusive opportunities that come to you.
  • Payment simplified icon
    Get paid securely
    From contract to payment, we help you work safely and get paid securely.
Want to get started? Create a profile

About Upwork

  • Rating is 4.9 out of 5.
    4.9/5
    (Average rating of clients by professionals)
  • G2 2021
    #1 freelance platform
  • 49,000+
    Signed contract every week
  • $2.3B
    Freelancers 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

  • Microsoft Logo
  • Airbnb Logo
  • Bissell Logo
  • GoDaddy Logo