Senior Scriptwriter

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Industry networking events

Project-based bonuses

Home office setup

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Scriptwriter in Pretoria, Gauteng, to join a renowned production company. You will craft scripts for TV, film, and digital content, develop outlines and characters, and collaborate with directors and producers to bring visions to life.

Hybrid work from Pretoria with remote options enables flexible scheduling while maintaining deadlines. The role requires strong storytelling skills, excellent dialogue, and a portfolio of produced or optioned work.

Qualifications

• Proven experience with produced or optioned work.
• Demonstrated ability to write across genres with strong narratives.
• Excellent command of language, grammar, and dialogue construction.
• Proficiency in screenwriting software such as Final Draft or Celtx.
• Understanding of screenplay structure and industry conventions.

Responsibilities

• Write original scripts for television, film, and digital platforms.
• Develop outlines, treatments, and character profiles.
• Craft authentic, nuanced dialogue serving the story.
• Adapt existing material into screenplay format.
• Collaborate with producers/directors/writers to refine scripts.
• Participate in story development meetings and contribute ideas.

Skills

Story structure

Character development

Dialogue writing

Research skills

Pitching ideas

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Screenwriting/Film Studies/English

Tools

Final Draft

Celtx

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned production company operating in Pretoria, Gauteng , is seeking a highly skilled and imaginative Senior Scriptwriter to join their dynamic creative team. This role is instrumental in developing compelling narratives and dialogue for a range of entertainment projects, including television series, films, and digital content. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of story structure, character development, and audience engagement. You will be responsible for crafting original scripts, adapting existing material, and collaborating closely with directors, producers, and development executives to bring creative visions to life. Working in a hybrid capacity from our Pretoria offices, you'll contribute to a collaborative atmosphere while also benefiting from the flexibility of remote work. We are looking for a writer who is passionate about storytelling, possesses a sharp wit, and can deliver polished, impactful scripts under tight deadlines. This is an exciting opportunity to leave your mark on significant productions within the South African entertainment industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Write original scripts for television, film, and digital platforms, adhering to genre conventions and target audience expectations.
• Develop detailed outlines, treatments, and character profiles.
• Craft engaging dialogue that is authentic, nuanced, and serves the narrative.
• Adapt existing literary works or source material into screenplay format.
• Collaborate with producers, directors, and other writers to refine scripts through rewrites and revisions.
• Participate in story development meetings and contribute creative ideas.
• Ensure scripts are formatted correctly and meet industry standards.
• Conduct research as needed to ensure accuracy and authenticity in subject matter.
• Maintain a consistent writing schedule and meet all script delivery deadlines.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a professional Scriptwriter, with a portfolio of produced or optioned work.
• Demonstrated ability to write compelling narratives and well-developed characters across different genres.
• Exceptional command of language, grammar, and dialogue construction.
• Proficiency in scriptwriting software such as Final Draft or Celtx.
• Strong understanding of screenplay structure, formatting, and industry conventions.
• Excellent research and analytical skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective pitching and feedback sessions.
• Bachelor's degree in Screenwriting, Film Studies, English, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and portfolio.
• Hybrid work model offering a blend of office and remote work flexibility in Pretoria, Gauteng .
• Opportunity to contribute to high-profile entertainment projects.
• Access to industry networking events and professional development.
• Creative and supportive work environment.
• Standard employee benefits and potential for project-based bonuses.
• Contribution towards home office setup.