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Book Editing Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

... editors and producer/editors, juggling multiple projects while keeping your eye on the creative vision. What You'll Do * Orchestrate production logistics end-to-end: book travel, arrange ...

Acquisitions Assistant ACQUISITIONS ASSISTANT, MIT Press, assists two Acquisitions Editors with project management for the MIT Press's book programs in cognitive science, philosophy, linguistics, and ...

... editors, juggling multiple projects while keeping your eye on the creative vision. What You'll Do * Orchestrate production logistics end-to-end: book travel, arrange accommodation, coordinate ...

... annually, editing for the alum's colloquial voice and following an in-house style guide, the ... Writes drafts of front matter pieces for assigned book as needed for alumni volunteers.

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Book Editing information

See Massachusetts salary details

$9

$32

$79

How much do book editing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for book editing in Massachusetts is $32.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.99 and $39.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Book Editing jobs in Massachusetts? The most popular types of Book Editing jobs in Massachusetts are:
What are popular job titles related to Book Editing jobs in Massachusetts? For Book Editing jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Book Editing jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Book Editing job openings:
Infographic showing various Book Editing job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,913 per year, or $32.2 per hour.

Writer/Editor Consultant - Institutional History Book Project

Forsyth Dental Infirmary for Children

Somerville, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

ADA Forsyth Institute, a globally recognized dental research institution with more than a century of scientific leadership and innovation, seeks an experienced journalist, writer, or editor to assist in the development of a book documenting the Institute's history and its evolution as a pioneer in dental and oral health research.
The project has archival materials, research data, and interviews. There is a draft manuscript for much of the text.
The selected consultant will help synthesize, organize, write, and edit these materials into a compelling and cohesive narrative suitable for publication.
The consultant will collaborate with Institute leadership, Communications, and Senior Investigator to ensure the manuscript accurately reflects Forsyth's history, scientific contributions, and lasting impact on the field.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience researching, writing, and editing books.
  • Strong journalism, nonfiction writing, or editorial background.
  • Experience covering healthcare, science, medicine, public health, or related topics.
  • Knowledge of the history of science, medicine, or research institutions is preferred.
  • Excellent research, interviewing, writing, and communication skills.

Compensation
This is a project-based consulting engagement. Compensation will be negotiated based on experience and qualifications and will be structured around agreed-upon project milestones and deliverables.
To Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
  • A brief statement describing their interest in and qualifications for the project;
  • A résumé or CV; and
  • Links to published articles, books, writing samples, or other relevant work.

ADA Forsyth Institute is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for this opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions or any other characteristic protected by law.
Salary Description
Project-based consulting engagement