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Acquisitions Editor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Specific duties include supporting the writing and editing of acquisition packages, which include but are not limited to market research, acquisition document development, cost/price estimates ...

Government Acquisition Management & Budget Execution * Government Management Consulting Services ... Senior Writer/Editor ID: 1617 Location: Arlington, VA Department: N/A More about this job ...

$78K - $85K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled Technical Writer/Editor to support the US Army Combined Arms ... Acquisition Specialists. Hive Group will never request payment details or money during the ...

We are seeking a highly skilled Technical Writer/Editor to support the US Army Combined Arms ... Acquisition Specialists. Hive Group will never request payment details or money during the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Acquisitions Editor information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$59.1K

$64.4K

How much do acquisitions editor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for acquisitions editor in Virginia is $59,110.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $59,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an acquisitions editor?

An Acquisitions Editor is a publishing professional responsible for identifying, evaluating, and acquiring new manuscripts or book proposals for publication. They review submissions, assess their market potential, and collaborate with authors to develop content that aligns with the publisher’s goals. Acquisitions Editors also negotiate contracts, work closely with other editorial staff, and help guide projects from acquisition to publication. Their role is crucial in shaping a publisher’s catalog and ensuring the success of new titles.

What is the role of an acquisitions editor?

The role of an acquisitions editor is to acquire and prepare commercial books, academic papers, or other written projects for print or digital production. They work on the editorial team, and select projects based on their employer’s objectives. Common job duties are to read manuscripts, stay within budget, negotiate royalties, finalize contracts for new titles and reprints, build relationships with authors and agents, and hire contractors or contributors such as photographers and illustrators. Career qualifications for an acquisitions editor include a bachelor’s or master’s degree and publishing experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an acquisitions editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Acquisitions Editor, you need strong editorial judgment, market awareness, and excellent written communication skills, typically supported by a degree in English, journalism, or a related field. Familiarity with manuscript tracking systems, content management tools, and publishing contracts is essential. Negotiation skills, relationship-building, and the ability to assess potential in authors and projects make someone stand out in this role. These abilities ensure the acquisition of high-quality, marketable content and foster successful collaborations with authors and stakeholders.

What are some common challenges faced by an acquisitions editor, and how can applicants prepare to address them?

Acquisitions Editors often face the challenge of balancing the publisher’s strategic goals with market trends and author expectations. Identifying promising manuscripts while managing tight deadlines and multiple submissions requires strong analytical and organizational skills. Additionally, building relationships with authors and agents is essential, as is negotiating contracts and ensuring projects align with the publisher’s vision. Applicants can prepare by developing industry awareness, refining negotiation skills, and gaining experience in manuscript evaluation and project management.

What is the difference between Acquisitions Editor vs Content Editor?

AspectAcquisitions EditorContent Editor
Primary RoleIdentifies and acquires new content or manuscripts for publicationReviews, revises, and improves existing content for publication
Work EnvironmentEditorial departments, publishing houses, media companiesPublishing teams, media organizations, online platforms
Required SkillsEditorial judgment, negotiation, industry knowledgeEditing, writing, content management
Common UsageBook, magazine, or media acquisition processesContent refinement and quality control

The main difference is that an Acquisitions Editor focuses on sourcing and acquiring new content, while a Content Editor concentrates on editing and improving existing material. Both roles are essential in publishing but serve different stages of the content lifecycle.

How much do acquisitions editors make?

Acquisitions editors typically earn between $50,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the publishing company. Senior or specialized acquisitions editors can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000. The role often requires strong editing, negotiation skills, and industry knowledge.

What are the most commonly searched types of Acquisitions Editor jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Acquisitions Editor jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Acquisitions Editor jobs in Virginia?

For Acquisitions Editor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Acquisitions Editor jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Acquisitions Editor job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Acquisitions Editor jobs in VA?

For Acquisitions Editor jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Acquisitions Editor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,110 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Technical Writer/Editor

Vienna, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Essential Job Functions: 

The Technical Writer/Editor supports the creation, review, revision, and coordination of technical projects, business processes, human resource and acquisition documents, operating manuals, training materials, guidance, processes and procedures, branding, newsletters, and other required documents. Specific duties include supporting the writing and editing of acquisition packages, which include but are not limited to market research, acquisition document development, cost/price estimates, quality assurance surveillance plans, statements of work, statements of objectives, performance work statements, product specifications, synopses, solicitations, and price negotiation memoranda. The Technical Writer/Editor assesses technical and business documents derived from attending meetings and develops processes and procedures that support the implementation of acquisition life-cycle activities. The Technical Writer/Editor develops and modifies risk management plans for acquisitions and provides project progress reports and a list of issues and risks as required. The Technical Writer/Editor develops integrated plans, processes and products, justification strategies, issue papers, white papers, management charters, nomination letters, and other related documents, including Expenditure Plans and other Fiscal Year budget requests that comply with the ICE and DHS Investment Management Process (IMP), statutory and directed requirements, and prepares responses to ICE and the DHS Investment Review Board (IRB); the OMB; GAO; and congressional staff according to ICE/DHS approval processes.

Skills/Experience: 

  • Required: 
  • The Technical Writer/Editor must demonstrate the following skills: gathering, analyzing, and composing technical information; conducting research and ensuring the use of proper technical terminology; translating technical information into clear, readable documents for use by both technical and non-technical personnel; organizing material and writing descriptive copy according to established standards regarding order, clarity, conciseness, style, and terminology; and developing, writing, and editing functional descriptions, specifications, special reports, or any other customer deliverables and documents. To perform the requirement satisfactorily, the Technical Writer/Editor must be able to fluently read, write, speak, and understand the English language.
  • Preferred:

The following skills are considered beneficial but not required: strong working knowledge or experience with MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and SharePoint; ability to work independently to create, track, and report on plans to complete multiple documents within the project in a timely fashion; ability to work under tight deadlines; and meticulous attention to detail and effective professional correspondence.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited university.
  • Ability to obtain public trust security clearance.
  • Five (5) years of experience gathering, analyzing, and composing technical information, as well as a minimum of five (5) years of requirements/specifications writing for federal contracts.