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Assistant Editor Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Distant Moon

Sr. Film Editor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

Serve as a creative and technical resource for editors and assistant editors * Review edits and provide feedback before director or client review * Help maintain editorial standards, workflows, and ...

Distant Moon

Film Editor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

Distant Moon Film Editor | Leesburg, VA Distant Moon is an award-winning production company seeking ... While much of the role involves desk-based editorial work, team members may occasionally assist ...

C2 Technologies

Content Editor

Arlington, VA

$50K - $100K/hr

The Content Editor will assist in editing and refining instructional content, collaborating with subject matter experts (SMEs) and other team members to ensure that content meets quality and ...

C2 Technologies, Inc.

Content Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

The Content Editor will assist in editing and refining instructional content, collaborating with subject matter experts (SMEs) and other team members to ensure that content meets quality and ...

BryceTech

Senior Editor

Arlington, VA

Maintain consistency in organizational messaging, formatting, and style * Assist in developing ... Demonstrated experience editing executive-level correspondence and official government documents

BryceTech

Senior Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

Maintain consistency in organizational messaging, formatting, and style * Assist in developing ... Demonstrated experience editing executive-level correspondence and official government documents

BryceTech

Senior Editor

Arlington, VA

Maintain consistency in organizational messaging, formatting, and style * Assist in developing ... Demonstrated experience editing executive-level correspondence and official government documents

National Academy of Sciences

Editor

Washington, DC · On-site

$73K - $92K/yr

May have supervisory responsibility for editorial assistants, including hiring, training, and ... Advises staff and authors on editing and publishing options. Holds meetings to discuss current and ...

Distant Moon

Series Film Editor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

Distant Moon Series Film Editor | Leesburg, VA Distant Moon is seeking a Series Editor to lead post ... While much of the role involves desk-based editorial work, team members may occasionally assist ...

The Lawfare Institute

Associate Editor

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$48K - $60K/yr

What you'll do The associate editor works at the direction of the managing editor to perform or assist with significant aspects of Lawfare's work, including: * Reviewing submissions for possible ...

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All JobsEditor JobsAssistant Editor JobsAssistant Editor Jobs in Reston, VA

Assistant Editor information

See Reston, VA salary details

$24.4K

$53.3K

$67.6K

How much do assistant editor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant editor in Reston, VA is $53,281.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,200.00 and $61,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an assistant editor do?

An assistant editor works with an editorial team that includes writers and other editors, so a collaborative approach is beneficial. Primary responsibilities cover both writing and editing duties, along with research, fact-checking, and story pitching tasks. As an assistant editor, you serve as a copy editor and support a creative team through designing and publishing copy. You focus on accuracy and producing quality content on online platforms and in print. Time management and technical skills are an asset as well.

What does an assistant editor do?

An Assistant Editor supports the editorial team in managing content, coordinating workflow, and ensuring accuracy and consistency in publications. Their responsibilities often include proofreading, fact-checking, organizing submissions, and assisting with the layout or digital publishing process. They work closely with editors, writers, and designers to help bring content from draft to final publication. Assistant Editors may also handle administrative tasks and contribute ideas for new articles or features. This role is key in maintaining the quality and efficiency of the editorial process.

How much does an assistant editor get paid?

The average salary for an assistant editor typically ranges from $35,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants working in larger markets or with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

What are some common challenges an assistant editor faces when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Assistant Editors often juggle several projects at once, which can make time management and organization critical challenges. Balancing competing deadlines, updating edits based on client or senior editor feedback, and tracking version control require strong attention to detail and clear communication. Utilizing project management tools and maintaining well-organized file structures can help ensure nothing falls through the cracks. Collaborating closely with editors, producers, and other team members also helps streamline the workflow and keep projects on track.

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

To thrive as an Assistant Editor, you need strong editing, proofreading, and organizational skills, often supported by a relevant degree in English, journalism, or communications. Familiarity with editing software such as Adobe InDesign, Microsoft Word, and content management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating with writers and managing deadlines. These skills ensure high-quality content production and smooth workflow within publishing or media environments.

What is the difference between Assistant Editor vs Content Editor?

AspectAssistant EditorContent Editor
CredentialsBachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or related fieldBachelor's degree, often with experience in editing or content creation
Work EnvironmentMedia companies, publishing houses, online platformsMedia outlets, publishing firms, digital content teams
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with editing, fact-checking, and preparing content for publicationOverseeing content quality, editing, and ensuring consistency and style

The main difference is that Assistant Editors support the editing process by handling preliminary tasks, while Content Editors take on more responsibility for final content quality and style. Assistant Editors often work under supervision, gaining experience, whereas Content Editors have a more independent role in managing content standards.

Is an assistant editor an entry-level job?

An assistant editor is often considered an entry-level position in editing and publishing, typically requiring some relevant skills or experience with editing software and content management. It serves as a starting point for careers in editing, media, or publishing, with opportunities to advance to senior editing roles. However, requirements can vary depending on the industry and organization.
More about Assistant Editor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Editor jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Editor jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Editor jobs in Reston, VA? For Assistant Editor jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Assistant Editor jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Assistant Editor job openings:
Assistant Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Editor job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,281 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Sr. Film Editor

Distant Moon

Leesburg, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Distant Moon Senior Film Editor | Leesburg, VA

Distant Moon is an award-winning production company seeking a Senior Film Editor to lead editorial work across documentary, commercial, and narrative projects while helping shape the creative standards of the post-production team.

This role is for a highly experienced editor with strong storytelling instincts, sound creative judgment, and the ability to independently guide projects from assembly through final delivery. We're looking for someone who can operate with minimal oversight, make strong creative decisions, and help elevate the quality and consistency of work across the team.

We care far more about the quality of an editor's work, storytelling instincts, and creative judgment than checking every box on a rsum.

What You'll Do
  • Lead edits from assembly through final delivery
  • Collaborate closely with directors to shape story, pacing, tone, and structure
  • Serve as a creative and technical resource for editors and assistant editors
  • Review edits and provide feedback before director or client review
  • Help maintain editorial standards, workflows, and post-production best practices
  • Organize footage, oversee project structure, and maintain clean deliverables
  • Handle temp sound design, music editing, and supporting audio work during the editorial process
  • Source archival footage, music, and supporting media assets when needed
  • Upload and manage review versions through Frame.io
  • Occasionally collaborate with production teams during shoots or production planning when editorial involvement is beneficial.
What We're Looking For
  • Typically 7 - 10+ years of professional editing experience across documentary, commercial, branded, or narrative projects
  • A strong portfolio demonstrating high-level storytelling, pacing, emotional structure, and editorial leadership
  • Ability to take ownership of projects and move edits forward with minimal oversight
  • Strong creative judgment and confidence making editorial decisions while remaining collaborative with directors and post leadership
  • Experience mentoring editors or contributing to collaborative post-production environments
  • Advanced proficiency in Premiere Pro and Adobe Creative Cloud
  • Strong communication, organization, and collaborative leadership skills
  • Self-directed, dependable, and comfortable managing priorities across multiple projects

Exceptional creative work, editorial leadership, and portfolio strength may be considered in place of strict years-of-experience requirements.

Bonus Experience
  • After Effects, Audition, or motion graphics experience
  • Color workflow familiarity
  • Experience leading editorial teams or managing post-production workflows
  • Interest in long-form narrative filmmaking
About Distant Moon

Distant Moon creates films and media designed to move audiences, challenge ideas, and engage deeper questions about culture, meaning, and human flourishing. Our work spans documentary, commercial, educational, and narrative storytelling across a wide range of mission-driven clients and partners.

Many of our projects involve values-driven subject matter and require thoughtful storytelling, strong creative judgment, and editorial sensitivity. We value people who work collaboratively, communicate well, and take pride in producing polished, emotionally grounded work.

Work Environment

Distant Moon operates from a purpose-built creative studio in Leesburg, Virginia designed specifically for filmmakers, editors, and storytellers. Our workspace was intentionally built to support collaboration, focused editorial work, production planning, and creative development across all stages of filmmaking.

This is an in-person role working alongside directors, editors, producers, and creatives in a highly collaborative studio environment. The space includes dedicated edit suites, production areas, collaborative workspaces, and creative gathering spaces designed to support both focused work and team collaboration.

While much of the role involves desk-based editorial work, team members may occasionally assist with production-related activities, equipment movement, or on-set support as needed.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.