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Books Editor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Crossway

Editor, Academic Books

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

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

Sourcebooks

Senior Production Editor

Naperville, IL · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

Help bring extraordinary books to life. If you're an experienced publishing professional who ... Sourcebooks is seeking a Senior Production Editor to join our Adult Publishing Operations team.

Sourcebooks

Production Editor - Children's

Naperville, IL · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

At Sourcebooks, we're passionate about creating books that inspire, educate, and entertain readers of all ages. We're looking for a collaborative, detail-oriented Production Editor to support our ...

Sourcebooks LLC

Senior Production Editor

Naperville, IL · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

Help bring extraordinary books to life. If you're an experienced publishing professional who ... Sourcebooks is seeking a Senior Production Editor to join our Adult Publishing Operations team.

Houlihan Lokey, Inc.

Presentations Designer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$60K - $70K/yr

Design and execute PowerPoint pitch books and client presentations * Apply and update client ... editing financial documents, spreadsheets and presentations * Expert knowledge of Microsoft ...

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Books Editor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do books editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for books editor in Chicago, IL is $32.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.02 and $40.87 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 Chicago, IL?

For Books Editor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Books Editor jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Books Editor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Books Editor jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Books Editor job openings:

Books Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Books Editor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,709 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Editor, Academic Books

Crossway

Wheaton, IL • On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Title: Book Department Editor
Reports to: Vice President of Editorial and Director of Editorial, Book Department
General Description of Responsibilities:
The academic book editor will serve Crossway's publishing ministry by copyediting book manuscripts and managing the editorial process for those book projects through the editing, typesetting, proofreading, and indexing stages. He or she will strive to ensure excellence of content, beauty of expression, and theological faithfulness. The editor will work under and closely with the vice president of Editorial and the director of Editorial, and will collaborate with the rest of the Book Department team (including Editorial and Acquisitions colleagues), the Production team, and other Crossway colleagues as needed.
Specific Responsibilities:
  • Copyediting eight to twelve books per calendar year for content, style, and doctrine, with a focus on books toward the academic end of the spectrum but also including some trade books
  • 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 they need to do their jobs effectively
  • Engaging and reviewing the work of freelance proofreaders and indexers
  • Working through projects in an efficient, timely manner
  • Meeting regularly with supervisor and others to discuss project issues
  • Handling other editorial needs that arise

Position Requirements:
  • Undergraduate degree in English, Bible, theology, history, philosophy, or a closely related field
  • Master's or doctoral degree in historical theology, church history, systematic theology, biblical and theological studies, or Old or New Testament
  • Familiarity with biblical languages; familiarity with Latin also helpful
  • Demonstrated copyediting experience for a publishing house or in another professional context, including copyediting of multiple book-length academic manuscripts
  • A thorough knowledge of The Chicago Manual of Style (including but not limited to its citation style)
  • Attention to detail, ability to focus for long periods, ability to communicate clearly, and strong organizational and time-management skills
  • Adherence to a robust evangelical theology in the historic stream of the Reformation-that is, broadly Reformed in line with the doctrinal DNA of Crossway's publishing ministry-and willingness to affirm Crossway's Statement of Faith, Statement of Classic Reformation Orthodoxy, and statements on Human Sexuality and Complementarity

Publishing Ministry Commitment:
Commitment to the Crossway publishing ministry and vision, as summarized in the following statement of purpose: By God's grace: (a) to bring men, women, and children to Christ as their Lord and Savior; (b) to help individual Christians and the church grow in knowledge and understanding of the Bible and the Christian life; (c) to bear witness to God's Truth, Beauty, and Righteousness, and the Lordship of Christ in every area of life; and (d) to glorify our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in every way.
Personal Qualities:
A love for God's Word and His church. Committed to an evangelical, historic Reformation understanding of the Bible, the gospel, and Christian doctrine. A genuine faith in Jesus Christ as one's Lord and Savior, and active participation in a local church. Pleasing personal demeanor with a willing, servant's heart. Creative, energetic, organized, timely, excellence in execution.
Benefit Program:
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans for full time employees after 30 days of employment with employer contribution to costs
  • Three medical plan options available with monthly premium costs for a family from $125-$300
  • Life, long term, and short term disability insurance for full time employees paid by company
  • Additional voluntary life insurance offerings paid by employee
  • Paid vacation and illness days for full time employees (part time employees PTO accrual based on hours worked.)
  • 11 paid holiday for full time employees (part time employees holiday pay dependent on schedule)
  • Participation in retirement plan including 25% company match of up to $1,500 for full time and part time employees (temporary employees not eligible.)

Salary:
Salary range is $65,000 to $95,000. This range reflects the full scope of potential compensation for this role. Most candidates can expect to fall at the midpoint of the range, with placement determined by experience, skills, and demonstrated ability for the position. Salary also will be commensurate with current standards for comparable positions and responsibilities within publishing and other leading not-for-profit ministries.
Other:
  • This is a full-time position.
  • On-site work preferred, but remote work negotiable.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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