Short-Form Writer (Freelance), Simplicissimus

Electrify

3d • Remote

About The Position

Simplicissimus, a leading German-speaking digital outlet for political and social topics with nearly 2.5 million subscribers, is seeking a Short-Form Writer. This role is part of Electrify, a dynamic new digital media company that invests in and scales creators. Simplicissimus focuses on investigative research, video essays, and documentaries for a curious and engaged audience. The Short-Form Writer will ideate and script compelling, accurate, and platform-optimized short-form video concepts for YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, and TikTok. This is a part-time role, a few days per month, focused on generating strong ideas, hooks, and retention-driven scripts for high-performing content.

Requirements

• German language proficiency (essential).
• Proven experience writing high-performing short-form content for social platforms.
• Strong understanding of hook-writing, pacing, and retention strategies.
• Ability to simplify complex topics without losing accuracy or nuance.
• A genuine curiosity across a wide range of topics, including history, geopolitics, science, technology, and society.
• Experience writing for visual formats.
• Strong research skills and attention to factual accuracy.
• Ability to work efficiently and deliver high-quality output within a limited time allocation.
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with remote teams.
• Background in journalism, documentary, or factual storytelling.
• Experience working with educational or documentary-style content.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with Simplicissimus or similar documentary-led channels (desirable).

Responsibilities

• Develop original short-form video ideas aligned to Simplicissimus’ editorial focus.
• Write clear, engaging, and well-researched scripts for short-form platforms.
• Craft strong, scroll-stopping hooks and tightly structured narratives optimised for retention.
• Translate complex topics spanning history, geopolitics, science, technology, and society into accessible, compelling storytelling.
• Work from briefs or existing long-form content to create short-form adaptations where relevant.
• Collaborate with Art Directors, Editors and Animators to ensure scripts translate effectively into visual storytelling.
• Iterate on scripts based on feedback and performance insights.
• Stay up to date with short-form trends, formats, and platform best practices.
• Contribute to occasional branded content ideation where required.

Benefits

• Work from anywhere
• Flexible hours
• Employee referral program
• The opportunity to work in a fast-paced, vibrant, dynamic, and innovative environment where you can learn and grow quickly
• A supportive, inclusive and collaborative team

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed