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Books Editor Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

MIT Human Resources

Acquisitions Editor

Cambridge, MA · On-site

ACQUISITIONS EDITOR, MIT Press , will strategically acquire and develop books for general readership, professional readers, and scholarly and academic audiences across science, education, and ...

Museum of Fine Arts

Editor, Publications

Boston, MA · On-site

... books on the permanent collection. The Editor partners with authors to shape and finalize manuscripts, copy edits and proofreads as needed, and ensures that all necessary components (captions ...

Harvard University

Editorial Specialist

Cambridge, MA · On-site

Provides developmental edit, copyedit, fact-check, and proofread of alumni-authored personal narratives for assigned books annually, editing for the alum's colloquial voice and following an in-house ...

BookBub

Content Marketer/Merchandiser

Cambridge, MA · On-site +1

$58K - $65K/yr

Millions of readers use our products every day to find great books, and our service empowers ... Have excellent copywriting, editing, and proofreading skills * Be excited to work in a fast-paced ...

BookBub

Content Marketer/Merchandiser

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$58K - $65K/yr

Millions of readers use our products every day to find great books, and our service empowers ... Have excellent copywriting, editing, and proofreading skills * Be excited to work in a fast-paced ...

Hbpublishing

Marketing Coordinator

Boston, MA · Remote

$46K - $63K/yr

Through its flagship magazine, books, and digital content and tools published on HBR.org, Harvard ... RFP (Request for Proposal) Support * Assist in drafting, editing, and submitting marketing sections ...

Ver-Tex

Senior Administrative Assistant

Boston, MA · On-site

$39 - $58/hr

Books flights/hotels, completes expense reports, and arranges team lunches/dinners and offsite ... editing PowerPoint presentations * Processes group purchase orders, invoices, and contracts

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Books Editor information

See Boston, MA salary details

$12

$34

$62

How much do books editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for books editor in Boston, MA is $34.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.22 and $43.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a books editor do?

A Books Editor is responsible for reviewing, selecting, and refining manuscripts for publication. They work closely with authors to improve the content, structure, and style of a book, ensuring it meets the publisher's standards and appeals to the target audience. Books Editors also coordinate with other publishing professionals, such as proofreaders, designers, and marketing teams, to guide a book through the entire publishing process. Their role is crucial in shaping the final version of a manuscript before it goes to print.

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

To excel as a Books Editor, you need a strong command of language, editorial judgment, and a background in literature, journalism, or publishing—often with a relevant degree. Familiarity with editing software like Adobe InCopy, Microsoft Word, and content management systems is typically required. Outstanding communication, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with authors and other stakeholders distinguish top editors. These skills ensure manuscripts are polished, cohesive, and meet both publisher standards and reader expectations.

How does a books editor typically collaborate with authors and other editorial staff throughout the publishing process?

Books Editors work closely with authors to refine manuscripts, providing constructive feedback and guiding revisions to enhance the overall quality and coherence of the book. They also coordinate with copy editors, proofreaders, and designers to ensure the manuscript transitions smoothly through each stage of production. Effective communication and project management skills are essential, as Books Editors often juggle multiple projects and deadlines while acting as a liaison between the author and the publishing team. Collaboration is key to producing a polished final product that aligns with both the author's vision and the publisher's standards.

What is the difference between Books Editor vs Books Writer?

AspectBooks EditorBooks Writer
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in English, Literature, or related field; editing experienceUsually a bachelor's degree in English, Literature, or creative writing; strong writing portfolio
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, editing firms, freelance editingIndependent, publishing companies, freelance writing
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by publishers to refine manuscripts before publicationUsed by publishers, authors, or freelancers to create original content
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding editing roles, responsibilities, and skillsUnderstanding writing roles, skills, and career paths

The main difference between a Books Editor and a Books Writer lies in their roles: editors focus on refining and improving manuscripts, ensuring clarity, consistency, and quality, while writers create original content from scratch. Both roles require strong language skills and relevant education, but their day-to-day tasks and career paths differ significantly.

How much money do books editors make?

Books editors typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the type of publishing. Senior editors or those working for major publishing houses can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Many editors also benefit from freelance opportunities, which can vary widely in income based on workload and reputation.

How to get work as a books editor?

To work as a books editor, develop strong editing and writing skills, often through a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or related fields. Gaining experience via internships, freelance editing, or working in publishing houses can improve job prospects, and familiarity with editing tools like Microsoft Word or editing software is beneficial.

Is there a demand for books editors?

Books editors are in steady demand as publishers seek skilled professionals to improve manuscript quality and ensure marketability. Employment opportunities often depend on experience, industry connections, and proficiency with editing tools, with demand remaining relatively stable in publishing and media industries.

What qualifications do I need to be a books editor?

To become a books editor, a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field is typically required. Strong editing skills, attention to detail, excellent communication, and proficiency with editing tools or software are also important qualifications for the role.

What are popular job titles related to Books Editor jobs in Boston, MA?

For Books Editor jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Books Editor jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Books Editor jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Books Editor jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Books Editor job openings:

Books Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Books Editor job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,407 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

Acquisitions Editor

MIT Human Resources

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

ACQUISITIONS EDITOR, MIT Press, will strategically acquire and develop books for general readership, professional readers, and scholarly and academic audiences across science, education, and scholarship, as determined by signing goals; manage a pipeline of projects and work with authors and peer reviewers to develop the highest quality manuscripts for general readers, academics, students, and professionals; actively oversee a backlist of projects and serve as the primary point of contact with authors; establish robust relationships with MIT faculty members and wider networks of advisors and prospective authors; and will exercise good judgment to promote the growth and continued success of this portfolio.

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About MIT Human Resources

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our mission is to advance a vibrant and diverse work community where individuals and groups thrive and contribute to MIT's excellence. We offer Support, Services, and Programs to enhance your work life. We're here to help. MIT is committed to helping employees achieve a healthy balance between their careers and the full lives they lead off-campus. Explore all of MIT's Work & Life resources, including MyLife Services, which provides 24/7 access to a network of experts available to help with life’s challenges.

Industry

Human resource programs administration

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

2014

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