1

Development Editor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Support proposal development efforts through content creation, writing, editing, formatting, and presentation preparation. * Develop professional slide decks and presentation materials for scope ...

Support proposal development efforts through content creation, writing, editing, formatting, and presentation preparation. * Develop professional slide decks and presentation materials for scope ...

Audience Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

FOX 32 is seeking an Audience Development Manager to spearhead the growth and engagement strategies ... Key Responsibilities Collaborate with the Executive Producer, Streaming and Managing Editor to ...

FOX 32 is seeking an Audience Development Manager to spearhead the growth and engagement strategies ... Key Responsibilities Collaborate with the Executive Producer, Streaming and Managing Editor to ...

Transform outlines, keyword and prompt targets, and strategic direction into fully developed ... Content Editing & Quality Control Refine and elevate AI-generated drafts to ensure clarity ...

Transform outlines, keyword and prompt targets, and strategic direction into fully developed ... Content Editing & Quality Control Refine and elevate AI-generated drafts to ensure clarity ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Development Editor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$51K

$84.9K

$101K

How much do development editor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for development editor in Chicago, IL is $84,898.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,300.00 and $100,000.00 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Development Editor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Development Editor jobs in Chicago, IL? For Development Editor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Development Editor job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 66% In-person, 18% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,898 per year, or $40.8 per hour.

Social Content Designer & Editor/ Retail Content Manager - SCDE 26-06686

NavitasPartners

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

$48/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Social Content Designer & Editor / Retail Content Manager
Location: Chicago, IL
Job Type: Contract (Part-Time)
Schedule: Flexible Hours (Approx. 25-40 hours/week)


Position Overview

We are seeking a creative and trend-savvy Social Content Designer & Editor to support the development of engaging, social-first content across digital platforms. This role focuses on bringing brand storytelling to life through visually compelling and performance-driven content. The ideal candidate is deeply immersed in social media culture and excels at translating ideas into impactful visual experiences.


Key Responsibilities
  • Design and develop social-first creative assets for platforms such as Instagram, including Stories, Reels, and in-feed content
  • Capture, produce, and edit high-quality photo and video content optimized for social media
  • Create polished, narrative-driven video edits aligned with brand voice and social strategy
  • Collaborate with social and creative teams to brainstorm, storyboard, and execute content concepts
  • Stay current with emerging social trends, platform updates, and creative best practices
  • Incorporate motion graphics, animation, and visual effects to enhance engagement

Required Qualifications
  • 3-5 years of experience creating and editing content for social media platforms
  • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro; After Effects preferred)
  • Strong experience shooting and editing short-form social content
  • Solid understanding of visual storytelling, composition, typography, and color theory
  • Strong organizational and time management skills with attention to detail
  • Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
  • Excellent collaboration and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with motion graphics and animation
  • Agency experience or experience supporting multiple brands/accounts
  • Strong understanding of social media trends, creator culture, and platform-native content

Key Skills
  • Social Media Content Creation
  • Video Editing & Production
  • Motion Graphics & Animation
  • Visual Storytelling
  • Adobe Creative Suite
  • Trend Analysis & Digital Engagement

Work Environment
  • Flexible, part-time schedule with a hybrid or onsite component as needed

For more details reach at vgill@navitassols.com or Call / Text at 516-862-1203.

About Navitas Healthcare, LLC: It is a Joint Commission Certified / WBENC and one of the fastest-growing healthcare staffing firms in the US providing Medical, Clinical and Non-Clinical services to numerous hospitals. We offer the most competitive pay for every position we cater. We understand this is a partnership. You will not be blindsided, and your salary will be discussed upfront.