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Development Editor Jobs in Richmond, VA (NOW HIRING)

CJK Group

Senior Managing Editor

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

The Senior Managing Editor may also support new client onboarding, business development efforts, workflow assessments, manuscript management system configuration, editorial transitions, and other ...

Career Site

Senior Managing Editor

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

The Senior Managing Editor may also support new client onboarding, business development efforts, workflow assessments, manuscript management system configuration, editorial transitions, and other ...

Hive Group LLC

Tech Writer / Editor

Petersburg, VA · On-site

We are seeking a highly skilled Technical Writer/Editor to support the US Army Combined Arms ... development opportunities, and lifestyle benefits. A Commitment to Equal Opportunity Hive Group is ...

Varsity Tutors

Essay Editing Tutor

Richmond, VA · 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 ...

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All JobsDevelopment Editor JobsDevelopment Editor Jobs in Richmond, VA

Development Editor information

See Richmond, VA salary details

$49.1K

$81.7K

$97.2K

How much do development editor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for development editor in Richmond, VA is $81,682.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $96,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

More about Development Editor jobs

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Development Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Development Editor job openings in Richmond, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,682 per year, or $39.3 per hour.

Writer/Editor II (Doctrine Development)

Summit Technologies, Inc.

Petersburg, VA

$65K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Writer/Editor II (Doctrine Development)

Location: Fort Lee, VA
Clearance: Active Secret Required

Overview

The Writer/Editor II develops and refines Army doctrine and policy documents supporting Operational Contract Support. This role ensures accuracy, clarity, and compliance with Army publishing standards.

Key Responsibilities
  • Research, draft, and edit doctrinal publications
  • Manage document lifecycle (initial draft through final publication)
  • Adjudicate comments and maintain change resolution matrices
  • Review doctrine and policy documents for accuracy and OCS integration
  • Develop OCS handbooks and supporting materials
  • Provide monthly doctrinal updates and workload reports
Qualifications
  • Active Secret clearance
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • 5+ years of experience in military writing/editing
  • Experience with TRADOC publishing standards (TR 25-30, 25-36)
  • Strong editing, proofreading, and technical writing skills
  • 6+ years using Microsoft Office and Adobe Pro
Preferred
  • Experience with Army doctrine development
  • Familiarity with OCS concepts and operations

Note: The anticipated salary range for this contingent upon award position is $65,000 to $85,000 annually. The final offered salary will be determined by the candidate's specific qualifications, relevant experience, location, and the final funding level approved by the client upon contract award.  

Summit Technologies, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Position descriptions serve as a guideline and may not be construed as a guarantee of employment. Summit Technologies, Inc. is an at-will organization.

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