ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Book Editing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crossway

Editor, Academic Books

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Managing book projects through the editing, typesetting, proofreading, and indexing phases, concluding with handoff to the Manufacturing Department * Interacting with typesetters to provide all that ...

Hachette Book Group

Production Editor

New York, NY

$62K - $66K/yr

The Hachette Book Group is seeking a Production Editor for its Workman imprints to manage 20-25 titles per year, from manuscript to bound book, as well as review reprints. The Production Editor will ...

Hachette Book Group

Production Editor

New York, NY · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

The Hachette Book Group is seeking a Production Editor for its Workman imprints to manage 20-25 titles per year, from manuscript to bound book, as well as review reprints. The Production Editor will ...

Hachette Book Group

Production Editor

New York, NY · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

The Hachette Book Group is seeking a Production Editor for its Workman imprints to manage 20-25 titles per year, from manuscript to bound book, as well as review reprints. The Production Editor will ...

Hachette Book Group

Editor, Basic Venture

New York, NY

$65K - $80K/yr

The Basic Books Group is a division of Hachette Book Group dedicated to making the world smarter by publishing works of serious non-fiction by expert authors. We are seeking an Editor to acquire ...

Hachette Book Group

Editor, Basic Venture

New York, NY · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

The Basic Books Group is a division of Hachette Book Group dedicated to making the world smarter by publishing works of serious non-fiction by expert authors. We are seeking an Editor to acquire in ...

Hachette Book Group

Editor, Basic Venture

New York, NY

$65K - $80K/yr

The Basic Books Group is a division of Hachette Book Group dedicated to making the world smarter by publishing works of serious non-fiction by expert authors. We are seeking an Editor to acquire ...

The New York Times

Reporter, Book Review

New York, NY

$26.75 - $36.50/hr

The Book Review is looking for an experienced, ambitious and creative reporter to cover the ... Collaborate with visual editors on new story formats and multimedia, including reporter video

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBook Editing Jobs

Book Editing information

See salary details

$8

$29

$74

How much do book editing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for book editing in the United States is $29.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $36.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a book editor?

To become a book editor, you typically need a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field, along with strong language and communication skills. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level editing positions and developing proficiency with editing tools like Microsoft Word or style guides such as the Chicago Manual of Style can help advance your career.

How much to edit a $50,000 Word book?

For a book editing job, editing a manuscript of this size typically costs between $0.02 and $0.10 per word, resulting in a total fee of $1,000 to $5,000. Rates depend on the editor's experience, the complexity of the content, and the level of editing required, such as developmental, copy, or proofreading.

What is book editing?

Book editing is the process of reviewing and revising a manuscript to improve its clarity, coherence, style, and overall quality before publication. Editors work closely with authors to correct grammar and spelling, ensure consistency, and enhance the structure and flow of the content. There are different types of book editing, including developmental editing, copy editing, and proofreading, each focusing on specific aspects of the manuscript. The goal of book editing is to ensure the final book is polished, professional, and ready for readers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Book Editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Book Editor, you need strong language proficiency, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of grammar, style, and publishing standards, often supported by a relevant degree or editorial experience. Familiarity with editing software like Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat, and content management systems, as well as certifications from organizations like the Editorial Freelancers Association, is common. Excellent communication, time management, and collaborative skills help editors work effectively with authors and publishing teams. These skills ensure manuscripts are polished, consistent, and ready for publication, maintaining high quality and meeting industry expectations.

What qualifications do I need to be a book editor?

To become a book editor, a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field is typically required. Strong language skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with editing tools like Microsoft Word or editing software are essential, along with experience in writing or editing. Some editors also pursue certifications such as the Certified Editor credential from professional organizations.

What is the difference between Book Editing vs Copy Editing?

AspectBook EditingCopy Editing
Primary FocusOverall content, structure, and flow of the bookGrammar, punctuation, and style consistency
Required SkillsStrong editing, storytelling, and developmental skillsAttention to detail, grammar, and style adherence
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, freelance, or self-publishingPublishing companies, freelance, or in-house editing
Typical TasksRevising content, improving narrative, and ensuring coherenceCorrecting language errors, consistency, and formatting

Book editing involves shaping the overall content and structure of a manuscript, focusing on narrative flow and coherence. Copy editing concentrates on refining language, grammar, and style at a sentence level. Both roles require strong editing skills, but they serve different stages of the publishing process and have distinct responsibilities.

How much do book editors get paid?

Book editors' salaries vary based on experience, location, and the type of editing, but the median annual wage in the industry is around $63,000. Freelance editors may charge hourly rates from $30 to $100 or more, depending on their expertise and project complexity.

What are some common challenges book editors face when working with authors, and how can these be managed effectively?

Book editors often encounter challenges such as balancing an author's creative vision with the need for clear, marketable content and maintaining consistent communication throughout the editing process. Navigating differing opinions about revisions requires tact, empathy, and strong negotiation skills. Effective editors build trust by providing constructive feedback, establishing clear timelines, and collaborating closely with authors to align on goals, which helps ensure a smooth editorial process and a polished final manuscript.
More about Book Editing jobs
What cities are hiring for Book Editing jobs? Cities with the most Book Editing job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Book Editing jobs? The most popular types of Book Editing jobs are:
What states have the most Book Editing jobs? States with the most job openings for Book Editing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Book Editing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Book Editing jobs are:
Book Editing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Book Editing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,373 per year, or $30 per hour.
Senior Editor, Renew Team (Hybrid)

Senior Editor, Renew Team (Hybrid)

HarperCollins Publishers

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Overview
Discover an extraordinary opportunity to infuse your sharp editorial skills into the Christian publishing world with the world's leading Christian publisher, HarperCollins Christian Publishing.
We're seeking a passionate, forward-thinking Visionary Senior Editor to join our innovative Renew division. This is a rare opportunity to bring your sharp editorial vision and creative instincts into the heart of the Christian publishing industry, where your work will directly impact the creation and revitalization of powerful books that reach new readers and deepen spiritual journeys.
If you're the kind of editor who doesn't just polish words but sees the potential in them - someone who can reimagine content, spot market opportunities, and craft books that truly matter - we want to talk to you. You'll collaborate closely with senior editors and the publisher to strategically build title plans that deliver both strong fiscal results and life-changing Christian products.
What You'll Do:
  • Drive Impactful Storytelling
  • Build Lasting Relationships
  • Master Project & Production Excellence
  • Contribute Creatively
  • Shape the Future of Christian Content

The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, and skilled at managing multiple projects and deadlines. A strong interest in books and publishing is essential, and familiarity with the Christian book market is a plus.
This is more than an editing job - it's a chance to leave your mark on the Christian publishing world, partner with gifted authors, and help deliver books that matter for eternity while driving Renew's continued success.
Our preference is to fill this position in Nashville, TN but we are also open to qualified candidates that are located outside of the Nashville area. Travel may be required based on the need of the business.
Responsibilities
Editorial and Author Relations
  • Actively participate in regular editorial/team meetings
  • Work with authors and agents to secure permissions, releases, and endorsements, as needed, and obtains approval for text design, copyediting, cover design, and cover copy
  • Provide necessary support to the editorial team on front list manuscripts through production all the way to delivery of final files to the printer
  • Build and maintain trustworthy relationships with authors and agents
  • Select and manage freelancers when necessary
  • Assist with the catalog copy process (metadata) and back-ad process, including reviewing, proofing, editing, routing, and BISAC process

Project Management
  • Review project list throughout the year, research potential projects, and schedule repacks and updated editions
  • Revitalize up to 12 titles annually, working with authors and internal publishing imprints
  • Provide valuable editorial insights that influence decision making and ideation
  • Implement edits on manuscripts as requested, and review for accuracy
  • Coordinate with sales, operations, and publishers for approvals
  • Ensure projects are delivered on schedule
  • Drive a consistent, prompt publishing pipeline

Research
  • Spot market trends and comprehend readers' needs
  • Generate ideas for proprietary books and brands
  • Research competing/comparable titles

Qualifications
Knowledge: We're seeking a senior editor with a strong grasp of the Chicago Manual of Style and flawless English. A keen eye for spotting errors and profound understanding of the book editing process will be beneficial. Familiarity with the Christian Writer's Manual of Style is helpful.
Work Experience: Minimum 5 years' editorial experience, preferably in trade book publishing. Experience in the book publishing industry, with a focus on Christian trade publishing, is preferred. Knowledge of key authors and ministries in the Christian space is a plus.
Education: A bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or related field is required. A working understanding of Biblical teaching or Theology would be a great advantage.
Industry Knowledge: Keeps up with trends in the publishing industry. Working knowledge of the trade book market, leading authors and agents is required. Experience serving the Christian market in publishing or related field, strongly preferred. Attuned to doctrinal landscape of the Christian market, preferred.
Skills:
  • Ability to cordially work in harmony with authors, vendors, imprint editors, production, and marketing
  • Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent editing skills, with an understanding of the copyediting and proofreading process
  • A knack for juggling multiple projects and meeting deadlines within budget
  • Ability to anticipate needs, plan ahead, and effectively encourage planning ahead
  • Capability to realize and articulate convincing new product ideas
  • An eye for identifying market trends and reader needs
  • Ability to prioritize, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines successfully and within budget.
  • Ability to evaluate and conceive worthwhile product ideas
  • Innovation, relational and creativity skills are crucial for success
  • Ability to identify or recognize market trends and felt needs in the market
  • Ability to articulate in writing and speech a convincing case for new products
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products and intermediate skill set of Adobe products
  • Ability to quickly learn and use electronic databases and new software applications; maintain awareness of new and emerging technologies
  • Working understanding of AI programs is helpful

HarperCollins Christian Publishing is an equal opportunity employer.
HarperCollins Christian Publishing is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, in our job application and/or interview process. If you need assistance or accommodation in completing your application, due to a disability, email us at TalentManagement@harpercollins.com. Note: we will only respond to accommodation requests.

Apply