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Book Editing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

VIZ Media

Editor

San Francisco, CA

$73K - $78K/yr

Manage all editorial duties involved in the graphic novel, simultaneous serializations, and trade book production process for both print and digital formats, including: editing manuscripts ...

Hachette Book Group

Senior Cartographer

Oakland, CA

$65K - $68K/yr

The Senior Cartographer works closely with the cartography crew, production department, and book editors to produce maps for print travel guides. You will use Adobe Illustrator equipped with Avenza ...

Hachette Book Group

Senior Cartographer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$65K - $68K/yr

The Senior Cartographer works closely with the cartography crew, production department, and book editors to produce maps for print travel guides. You will use Adobe Illustrator equipped with Avenza ...

The J. Paul Getty Trust

Senior Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$85K - $113K/yr

... editing, copyediting, and proofreading-for publications on a variety of topics and with different levels of complexity, from concept through transmittal. The Senior Editor works as part of a book ...

New

J. Paul Getty Trust, The

Senior Editor

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

... editing, copyediting, and proofreading-for publications on a variety of topics and with different levels of complexity, from concept through transmittal. The Senior Editor works as part of a book ...

J. Paul Getty Trust

Senior Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

... editing, copyediting, and proofreading--for publications on a variety of topics and with different levels of complexity, from concept through transmittal. The Senior Editor works as part of a book ...

J. Paul Getty Trust, The

Senior Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$85K - $113K/yr

... editing, copyediting, and proofreading-for publications on a variety of topics and with different levels of complexity, from concept through transmittal. The Senior Editor works as part of a book ...

Nashville Public Radio

Editor

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$73 - $78/hr

Manage all editorial duties involved in the graphic novel, simultaneous serializations, and trade book production process for both print and digital formats, including: editing manuscripts ...

New

Patagonia

Category Editor, Climb

Ventura, CA · On-site +1

$94K - $108K/yr

You've stuck with writing and editing because you care deeply about the written word, and you take ... Familiarity with Chicago Manual of Style and AP Style Book. * Bachelor's degree in Literary Arts ...

Chronicle Books

ASSISTANT EDITOR

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$27.41 - $31.50/hr

We need a quick-thinking, pop-culture and trend-loving editor who has many creative ideas, an interest in growing publishing relationships, and a clear vision for what makes a book irresistible.

Hachette-Livre

Senior Cartographer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$65 - $68/hr

The Senior Cartographer works closely with the cartography crew, production department, and book editors to produce maps for print travel guides. You will use Adobe Illustrator equipped with Avenza ...

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Book Editing information

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 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.

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 can I work as a book editor?

To work as a book editor, you typically need a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field, along with strong editing, writing, and communication skills. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level editing positions and becoming proficient with editing software like Microsoft Word or Adobe InDesign can improve job prospects. Building a portfolio of editing work and networking within the publishing industry are also important steps.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Book Editing jobs in California?

The most popular types of Book Editing jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Book Editing jobs in California?

For Book Editing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Book Editing jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Book Editing jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Book Editing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Book Editing job openings:

Book Editing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Book Editing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Editor

VIZ Media

San Francisco, CA

$73K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Manage all editorial duties involved in the production process for print and digital publications, including editing manuscripts, proofreading proofs, and reviewing digital editions.

  • Oversee freelance translators, rewriters, and letterers for the production of graphic novels, serializations, and trade books.

  • Collaborate with departments such as Licensing, Design, Production, and Marketing to ensure quality, consistency, and timely delivery of publications.

Job description

Job Summary

VIZ Media is looking to add two Editors to our publishing department - come join a team of dedicated storytellers and artists and help bring your favorite manga to the English-speaking market! As an Editor at VIZ Media, you'll have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of print and digital publications, collaborate with talented creative colleagues, and even propose series for acquisition. 

What you'll do:

  • Manage all editorial duties involved in the graphic novel, simultaneous serializations, and trade book production process for both print and digital formats, including: editing manuscripts, proofreading page and cover proofs, checking bluelines, and reviewing digital editions to ensure quality and consistency
  • Oversee freelance translators, rewriters, and letterers for the production of graphic novels, simultaneous serializations, and trade books
  • Work with our Publishing Licensing department to address licensor requirements and concerns and to secure approval for publication projects
  • Collaborate with in-house Designers and freelance designers on the timely and high-quality creation of cover and miscellaneous text layout for graphic novels and trade books
  • Write cover text, catalog copy, and other related marketing and sales materials
  • Check promotional copy in items such as sell sheets, samplers, and other marketing materials to make sure they are consistent with the facts and spirit of the title
  • Work with Production staff to determine production specifications and with senior Publishing staff to conduct cost analysis and stay within the title budget
  • Research and propose potential publishing acquisitions
  • Represent and advocate titles placed under your responsibility
  • Provide supporting editorial and informational services for other departments, including Digital Publishing, Sales, Marketing, and Animation

The ideal candidate has:

  • 2-4 years of experience in delivering high quality editorial services related to book publication, simultaneous serialization, graphic novels, video games and/or trade books
  • Knowledge about book publishing, comics, manga, or anime
  • Experience writing and editing high-quality copy and maintaining continuity in projects
  • The ability to balance creative judgements with business requirements
  • Strong skill with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Excellent project and deadline management skills
  • A Bachelor's Degree in English, Journalism, Creative Writing, Comparative Literature, Communications, or related field or equivalent experience

Additional Preferred Experience:

  • Prior experience in the publishing industry
  • Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (particularly InDesign and Photoshop)
  • Working knowledge of the Japanese language (a plus, not a must)

Work Location, Schedule, and Compensation

Location: The Editor must be local to the San Francisco Bay Area. VIZ Media operates on a hybrid schedule, and the Editor should expect to work onsite at our Downtown San Francisco office 1-2 times per week. There may be some required travel for this position to attend conventions or trade shows.

Schedule: This is a Regular Full-Time position with flexibility in working hours outside of our core hours of 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. The Editor may need to work late or on weekends or be on call for occasional urgent issues. 

Compensation: $73,000 - $78,000 annually, depending on experience, with additional variable compensation

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