What is dream job? 'Jeopardy!' is hiring for this position
What is, "a dream job for trivia lovers?"
"Jeopardy!" is searching for a new writer to join its Emmy award-winning writing team, giving one trivia expert the chance to help create clues for one of television's most recognizable game shows.
The position, listed by Sony Pictures Entertainment, calls for someone who can combine creativity, research skills and a sharp command of language to craft clues using the show's signature answer-and-question format.
The full-time role is based in Culver City, California, and comes with an anticipated base salary between $138,000 and $172,000, according to the job posting. The position may also include annual incentives and comprehensive benefits.
But before a candidate can start writing clues for contestants, they will have to prove they have the knowledge and creativity needed to become part of the "Jeopardy!" team.
Applicants must pass a trivia test and submit writing samples
The application process begins with the "Jeopardy! Anytime Test," which candidates must complete as part of their submission. Applicants who move forward must then provide a detailed writing sample demonstrating their ability to create game material.
Candidates are asked to write 12 categories, split between the "Jeopardy!" round and "Double Jeopardy!" round, with five clues for each category. The sample must include categories covering subjects such as history, geography, literature, science, art, music, current trends, food or business, wordplay, famous people and pop culture.
Applicants must also create three "Final Jeopardy!" categories and clues, with every clue accompanied by at least one source supporting the information.
The show's posting emphasizes that writers must follow strict research standards, noting that source material cannot come from Wikipedia or artificial intelligence tools.
What does a 'Jeopardy!' writer actually do?
The new writer would be responsible for creating an average of eight categories per week while working closely with the show's research staff. Writers also participate in meetings, revise clues based on feedback and help ensure game material meets the show's standards.
The role can also include assisting during tapings by providing last-minute replacement clues and helping with research needed for on-stage judging during gameplay.
Sony Pictures says candidates should have a four-year college degree, exceptional writing and communication skills and the ability to collaborate with different areas of production. Writers Guild of America membership and familiarity with FileMaker Pro are listed as preferred qualifications.
A rare opportunity behind one of TV's biggest quiz shows
"Jeopardy!" remains one of the most recognizable game shows in television history, with Sony Pictures describing it as "America's favorite quiz show." The program is produced by Sony Pictures Television and has earned dozens of Emmy Awards throughout its run.
For trivia fans who have dreamed of creating the clues that challenge contestants every night, this opening offers a chance to work behind the scenes on a show built around curiosity, knowledge and wordplay.
Applications for the writer position are currently open through Sony Pictures Entertainment.
Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@usatodayco.com, or on X @athompsonUSAT
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is dream job? 'Jeopardy!' is hiring for this position
Reporting by Anthony Thompson, USA TODAY / USA TODAY
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect
This story was originally published July 8, 2026 at 12:18 PM.