The long-running game show "Jeopardy!" is seeking a new clue writer, a position that offers a salary ranging from $132,000 to $178,000 annually. This marks a rare opening for a role considered by many to be an "elite tier gig."
Ideal candidates must possess "wit and clarity" and be able to successfully complete the show's challenging contestant quiz. This exam covers a wide array of subjects, including U.S. geography, opera, science, and pop culture.
Those interested must first pass the "Jeopardy! Anytime" online quiz, which features 50 questions to be answered within 15 seconds each. This initial screening is designed to assess a candidate's trivia knowledge, similar to the process for selecting contestants.
Following the quiz, successful applicants will be tasked with creating 12 categories of clues across various fields such as business, food, history, pop culture, and science. Additionally, they will need to write three Final Jeopardy clues and rigorously fact-check them without the use of AI or Wikipedia. Permitted research resources include the Oxford English Dictionary and major newspaper archives.
The role is based in Culver City, California, and involves joining a small team of writers. The "Jeopardy!" writing staff is known for its deep expertise, with many members having been with the show for over a decade. The writing team is currently listed at 10 people on IMDB, indicating a close-knit environment.
"Jeopardy!" premiered in 1984 and is preparing to film its 43rd season in August. Since the passing of host Alex Trebek in 2020, the show has been hosted by Ken Jennings. The show has a history of diverse contestants and even featured a category dedicated to its founder, Alexander Hamilton, in 2015.
Applications are currently being accepted through Sony Pictures' website. Candidates are advised to take the entry test only when their knowledge is at its peak, as the test can only be attempted once.