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Development Editor Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Writing, editing, and presenting information in multiple formats to include Microsoft Office Suite ... Act as the user's advocate in the product development process, which requires a solid understanding ...

Writing, editing, and presenting information in multiple formats to include Microsoft Office Suite ... Act as the user's advocate in the product development process, which requires a solid understanding ...

Writing, editing, and presenting information in multiple formats to include Microsoft Office Suite ... Act as the user's advocate in the product development process, which requires a solid understanding ...

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Showing results 1-20

Development Editor information

See Missouri salary details

$46.4K

$77.2K

$91.9K

How much do development editor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for development editor in Missouri is $77,246.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,900.00 and $91,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Development Editor jobs in Missouri? The most popular types of Development Editor jobs in Missouri are:
What are popular job titles related to Development Editor jobs in Missouri? For Development Editor jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Missouri are hiring for Development Editor jobs? Cities in Missouri with the most Development Editor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Development Editor jobs in MO? For Development Editor jobs in MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Development Editor job openings in Missouri as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, 20% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,246 per year, or $37.1 per hour.
Associate Developmental Editor

Associate Developmental Editor

Graphic World, Inc.

Saint Louis, MO • Hybrid

$19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Wake Learning, a division of GW, is looking for a creative individual passionate about education and learning to join our growing team. Wake Learning is the instructional design and content development branch of GW, a premier publishing services provider.


As an Associate Developmental Editor, you will be creating educational (instructional) content and assessments, focusing on higher education and adult learning.


Our mission is to (1) create content that enhances the learning experience, (2) create assessments that accurately assess mastery, (3) provide unmatched customer support throughout development, and (4) have a little fun along the way!


You will directly contribute to these causes by providing support to our in-house instructional designers and subject matter experts (SMEs) and by managing your own projects.


Learn more about being a GW Associate here: 6 Q&As about Associates at GW


Job Duties:

Your daily duties will include a mix of:

  • Critically evaluating content and assessments written by freelance SMEs/writers and bringing materials in line with established standards
  • Ensuring content conforms to supplied templates (file formatting, order of content)
  • Writing new content as needed, including writing summaries and writing/rewriting questions
  • Managing select projects, including communicating directly with the customer, monitoring/managing costs, and keeping the project on schedule


As an Associate Developmental Editor, the majority of your work will be done using Microsoft Office.


Who We Are Looking For:

Our ideal teammate is someone who is passionate about developing and improving educational content-someone who wants to make a difference each and every day. Additionally, this person is an organized and creative critical thinker who enjoys trying new things and who is comfortable creating new workflows, as needed, to achieve project goals.


Requirements:

We are looking for someone who checks 100% of these boxes.

Don't quite meet these qualifications? You may be interested in our Assistant Developmental Editor role, available here: https://gwinc.bamboohr.com/careers/176

  • Bachelor's degree or higher
  • Previous professional assessment writing experience or project management experience
  • Experience with Microsoft Office, especially Track Changes
  • Ability to successfully prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Strong critical thinking skills
  • Strong writing and grammar skills
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Strong attention to detail/accuracy


Other Qualifications:

Although not required, these qualifications will give you a leg up:

  • 1+ year's experience in publishing, education (teaching or research), or training
  • Degree or working toward a degree in instructional design, education (higher ed preferred), or curriculum development
  • Intermediate/advanced knowledge of Microsoft Word

  • Prior experience writing assessment questions


What We Offer:

  • Opportunities for advancement
  • Variety! We work on a large number of disciplines, ranging from health science to psychology to history to biology
  • Generous vacation and holidays: 10 Vacation days your first year, 5 Health days, and 10 paid holidays
  • Full benefits: Health, Vision, Dental, Retirement, Disability, and Gym Membership Discount
  • Company-paid life insurance and short-term disability coverage
  • Flexible start and end times, hybrid work environment
  • Casual work environment
  • Tuition support programs
  • A supportive, collaborative team environment!