ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Book Editing Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

News Corporation

Marketing Director

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

Communicates with internal leadership, with editors, authors, sales, and retailers. * Develops and implements strategic individual book marketing campaigns working closely with cross functional ...

City of Dearborn Career Opportunities

$75K - $86K/yr

Serve as principal editor and administrator of visual brand guidelines on all design products ... book for the City of Dearborn. 7. Convenes and leads a "brain trust" of designers and those ...

All JobsBook Editing JobsBook Editing Jobs in Michigan

Book Editing information

See Michigan salary details

$7

$26

$65

How much do book editing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for book editing in Michigan is $26.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.09 and $32.30 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 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

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

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

Book Editing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Book Editing job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,775 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Senior Acquisitions Editor - HarperChristian Resources

Nashville Public Radio

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

HarperChristian Resources (HCR) is looking for a Senior Acquisitions Editor to join our dynamic team. HCR creates original proprietary Bible study content and Bible study resources based on book content published by Thomas Nelson and Zondervan, as well as other Christian trade book publishers. We publish video Bible studies, Bible study guides, small group study guides, ministry programs, and church campaigns in both print and digital formats.

The Senior Acquisitions Editor serves in a leadership role in the acquisition and editorial/product development for group and individual Bible studies, video curriculum, and small group resources in the Christian market.

This role will oversee and manage new titles from Pub Board acceptance through editorial process management to printer-ready files. The Senior Acquisitions Editor will interface with the HCR editorial, marketing, and creative team members as well as shared service areas of the company to support best tools, processes, and practices.

Our preference is to fill this position in Nashville, TN or Grand Rapids, MI but we are also open to qualified candidates that are located outside of the area. Travel may be required based on the need of the business.

Responsibilities
  • Actively acquires 12 to 14 titles per year, consistent with publishing strategy and financial goals. Develops Publishing Announcement forms, financial product details, and contract request forms.
  • Possesses expertise in the landscape of the Christian church, Bible study resources, as well as an understanding of cultural, entertainment, and publishing trends. Also possess strong editorial and writing skills.
  • Demonstrates strong editorial judgment about which authors to acquire and re-sign; negotiates with authors and/or agents in a manner that is fair and within financial benchmarks; and develops, nurtures, and grows those author and agent relationships.
  • Oversees editorial development of Bible studies and curriculum acquired, including the delivery of expert and timely editorial work and strong author management. Will be responsible for securing qualified freelance writers, video production teams, submitting approved content to copyeditors/proofreaders, and selecting internal or external composition/interior designers.
  • Shepherds the titling, packaging, and cataloging process for acquired titles.
  • Provides timely communication with current and potential authors and their agents regarding the status of their propsals and/or contracted projects.
  • Communicates with authors throughout the development process and serves as the lead/project manager until the project is deemed complete and accepted and is submitted to the printer.
  • Responds to inquiries from sales, marketing, and other HCCP teams on matters related to the project.
  • Represents HCR persuasively within HCCP and within the broader publishing community, including at author events, conferences, and industry events.
  • Participants in brand meetings (where applicable) and other author-related meetings.
  • Influences and informally mentors junior editorial staff.
Qualifications Knowledge

Expert market knowledge, proven leadership ability, proven success in acquisitions, proven ability to maintain strong relationships with internal and external constituencies.

Work Experience

Proven success as an acquisitions editor with 7-8 years’ editorial experience or other relevant publishing experience.

Education

BA in Humanities, English, Journalism, or Theology or equivalent degree required. MA degree preferred.

Industry Knowledge
  • K nowledge of the Bible Study market and Christian books, leading authors, and publishers.
  • Expertise in Chicago Manual of Style and/or Christian Writers Manual of Style.
  • A strong grasp of proper English, grammar, and an eagle-eye for errors.
  • Editing experience, including substantive editing, editorial project management, and speaking into aesthetics and design
  • Personal experience in leading or participating in a small group and/or Bible study, preferred.
  • Good understanding of the Bible and Christian doctrine.
  • Be well versed and engaged in social media, including emerging trends and voices in areas like TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, Meta, and more as it relates to authors to acquire.
  • Understanding the role of the church and ministry for publishing Bible study resources, preferred
Skills
  • Excellent developmental editing, line editing, proofreading, and communication skills; ability to work with authors in developing content
  • Manuscript management experience
  • Familiarity with Christian Bible study content and a variety of theological frameworks
  • Able to work with and lead/influence others in a team environment
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to juggle multiple assignments at any given time
  • Able to manage and coach creative people and desire to see them thrive
  • Skilled in understanding book offers, publishing terms, and negotiation tactics
  • Decisive, well organized, strategic planner in the context of a team environment with shared processes and goals. Innovation and creativity skills are crucial for success
  • Relationship builder, networker, diplomatic and collaborative
  • Outstanding communication and public speaking skills
  • Must be able to work in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving marketplace and environment
  • Able to travel as needed

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.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply