ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Development Editor Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

leeenterprises

Alabama Editor

Opelika, AL · On-site

The editor will oversee daily and enterprise journalism, audience growth and newsroom development while helping both organizations succeed in a digital-first environment. WHAT YOU'LL DO Lead the news ...

Deloitte

Editor, Consumer Industry

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Stewarding each project through the full content development process, coordinating with authors ... Editing copy for factual accuracy, grammar, punctuation, readability, flow, and style, and applying ...

leeenterprises

Alabama Editor

Opelika, AL

The editor will oversee daily and enterprise journalism, audience growth and newsroom development while helping both organizations succeed in a digital-first environment. WHAT YOU'LL DO Lead the news ...

Deloitte

Editor, Consumer Industry

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Stewarding each project through the full content development process, coordinating with authors ... Editing copy for factual accuracy, grammar, punctuation, readability, flow, and style, and applying ...

Apex Systems

Video Editor

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Job#: 3040589 Video Editor Location: Birmingham, Alabama (Hybrid) Role Overview We are seeking a ... We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a ...

Lee Enterprises

Alabama Editor

Opelika, AL · On-site

The editor will oversee daily and enterprise journalism, audience growth and newsroom development while helping both organizations succeed in a digital-first environment. WHAT YOU'LL DO Lead the news ...

Varsity Tutors

Essay Editing Tutor

Montgomery, AL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of essay structure, thesis development, paragraph organization, transitions ... Emphasizes teaching self-editing skills and connects essay revision to academic success ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDevelopment Editor JobsDevelopment Editor Jobs in Alabama

Development Editor information

See Alabama salary details

$44.9K

$74.6K

$88.8K

How much do development editor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for development editor in Alabama is $74,642.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,100.00 and $87,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much is a Developmental Editor paid?

Developmental editors typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, project scope, and industry. Freelance developmental editors may charge hourly rates ranging from $30 to $100 or more, based on their expertise and the complexity of the work.

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

To thrive as a Development Editor, you need a strong grasp of editorial processes, manuscript evaluation, and subject-matter expertise, typically supported by a degree in English, journalism, or a related field. Familiarity with publishing software like Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat, and content management systems is crucial, as is experience with style guides such as Chicago or APA. Exceptional communication, project management, and collaboration skills help build productive relationships with authors and cross-functional teams. These abilities ensure high-quality content development, adherence to publishing standards, and successful project delivery.

How does a Development Editor typically collaborate with authors and other editorial team members throughout the publishing process?

As a Development Editor, you work closely with authors to shape manuscripts, providing detailed feedback on structure, content, and clarity. Collaboration is key—regular meetings and written communications help guide authors through revisions and ensure the manuscript aligns with the publisher's vision. You’ll also coordinate with copy editors, proofreaders, and sometimes designers to maintain consistency and quality throughout the publication process. This role requires excellent communication skills and the ability to balance constructive criticism with encouragement, ensuring a smooth and productive workflow for all parties involved.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

Development editors in media can earn $150,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in editing and project management, and work at major publishing houses or media companies. High salaries are often associated with senior roles, specialized expertise, or leadership positions within the industry.

What Is a Development Editor?

A development editor works with an author to define and improve the structure and content of a manuscript. Development editors may start early on, from the point when the manuscript is accepted for publication, noting a lack of focus and helping the author refine a more definite direction for the book. They may also discover inconsistent tone, an unclear audience, or a stilted writing style, and provide suggestions to resolve these issues. Some development editors review the book chapter by chapter, until the book is ready for publication. Most developmental editors have a degree in English or a related subject. Many have experience in publishing as copy editors or proofreaders, or have been writers themselves before moving to become developmental editors.

What is the difference between Development Editor vs Content Editor?

AspectDevelopment EditorContent Editor
Primary RoleOversees the development process of a publication, including editing, coordinating with authors, and managing timelines.Focuses on editing and refining the content for clarity, style, and accuracy.
Required SkillsStrong editing, project management, and communication skills; knowledge of publishing processes.Excellent editing, grammar, and style skills; attention to detail.
Work EnvironmentTypically works in publishing houses, educational institutions, or corporate publishing teams.Works in similar environments, often within editorial teams or media companies.

While both roles involve editing, a Development Editor manages the overall development and production process of a publication, whereas a Content Editor concentrates on refining the content itself. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in publishing and editing industries.

What is a Development Editor?

A Development Editor is a publishing professional who works closely with authors to shape and refine the content, structure, and overall direction of a manuscript before it moves to copyediting or production. Their primary focus is on the big-picture elements such as organization, clarity, pacing, and coherence of the work. Development Editors provide constructive feedback and suggestions to help authors strengthen their ideas and ensure the manuscript meets its intended purpose and audience. They are commonly employed in book publishing, academic, and educational settings.

What is the role of a Developmental Editor?

A Developmental Editor is responsible for shaping the content, structure, and overall flow of a manuscript during its early stages. They work closely with authors to improve organization, clarity, and coherence, often providing feedback on plot, character development, and pacing, especially in fiction and non-fiction projects. Strong editing skills and knowledge of the target audience are essential for this role.

How much do developmental editors make?

Developmental editors typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the complexity of projects. Freelance developmental editors may charge hourly rates ranging from $30 to $100 or more, based on their expertise and the scope of work.
More about Development Editor jobs
What are popular job titles related to Development Editor jobs in Alabama? For Development Editor jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Development Editor jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Development Editor jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Development Editor jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Development Editor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Development Editor jobs in AL? For Development Editor jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Development Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Development Editor job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, 75% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 68% In-person, 8% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,642 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Alabama Editor

leeenterprises

Opelika, AL • On-site

Other

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Alabama editor 
 
Lee Enterprises, a leading provider of local news serving 114 markets across 25 states, is seeking an editor to lead the Opelika-Auburn News and Dothan Eagle.
This is an opportunity to lead two respected Alabama newsrooms, shape coverage that matters and build strong connections with the communities we serve. The editor will oversee daily and enterprise journalism, audience growth and newsroom development while helping both organizations succeed in a digital-first environment.
WHAT YOU’LL DO 
Lead the news report
  • Set coverage priorities and direct daily and enterprise reporting.
  • Ensure coverage is timely, accurate, fair and relevant to local readers.
  • Champion accountability, watchdog and public-service journalism.
Grow audiences and subscriptions
  • Use audience data, reader feedback and analytics to guide coverage decisions.
  • Expand readership through strong storytelling, newsletters, social media and multimedia journalism.
  • Strengthen subscriber loyalty by delivering journalism readers can't find elsewhere.
Represent the newsroom in the community
  • Serve as a visible leader through editor columns, public events and community conversations.
  • Build relationships with readers, sources, local leaders and community organizations.
  • Listen to community concerns and ensure they are reflected in coverage.
Develop journalists
  • Recruit, coach and retain talented reporters and editors.
  • Foster a collaborative, accountable newsroom culture.
  • Help staff strengthen digital, visual and audience-engagement skills.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR 
  • Leadership experience in a newsroom environment.
  • Strong news judgment and a commitment to community journalism.
  • Success managing coverage across digital, social and print platforms.
  • Experience using audience insights and analytics to guide strategy.
  • A track record of developing journalists and building effective teams.
  • Excellent communication skills and an interest in community engagement.
  • The ability to balance daily demands with long-term newsroom goals.
If you're passionate about local news, audience growth and leading journalists through a period of transformation and opportunity, we'd like to hear from you.
 

Apply