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Developmental Editing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Content Editor

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

Optimize content development workflows and recommend process improvements. * Review and ensure ... Expertise in editing and proofreading instructional materials. * Strong written communication ...

Handle temp sound design, music editing, and supporting audio work during the editorial process ... and creative development across all stages of filmmaking. This is an in-person role working ...

... editing and refining instructional content, collaborating with subject matter experts (SMEs) and ... Work with SMEs to ensure content accuracy. * Assist in the development of instructional materials ...

Content Editor

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

... editing and refining instructional content, collaborating with subject matter experts (SMEs) and ... Work with SMEs to ensure content accuracy. * Assist in the development of instructional materials ...

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Showing results 1-20

Developmental Editing information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$31

$57

How much do developmental editing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for developmental editing in Virginia is $31.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.20 and $39.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are typical challenges faced in developmental editing, and how do editors overcome them?

Developmental Editors often encounter challenges such as helping authors address major structural issues, balancing the author's voice with editorial recommendations, and managing tight deadlines. Overcoming these challenges requires clear and constructive feedback, patience, and strong project management skills to keep revisions on track. Editors also rely on regular communication with authors and other team members to ensure everyone is aligned throughout the editing process. Successfully navigating these challenges leads to a more polished and marketable manuscript while maintaining a positive author-editor relationship.

What is a Developmental Editing job?

A Developmental Editing job involves evaluating the structure, content, and overall coherence of a manuscript to improve its clarity, organization, and impact. Developmental editors work closely with authors to refine story arcs, character development, pacing, and thematic consistency. Unlike copy editors, they focus on big-picture elements rather than grammar or syntax. This process is common in book publishing, particularly for fiction and nonfiction manuscripts. The goal is to help authors strengthen their work before it moves to the next stage of editing and publication.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Developmental Editing position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Developmental Editor, you need advanced skills in manuscript evaluation, story structure, and content organization, usually supported by a background in English, journalism, or a related field. Familiarity with editorial software such as Microsoft Word with Track Changes, Adobe Acrobat, and project management tools is important, and professional certifications from organizations like the Editorial Freelancers Association are a plus. Excellent communication, collaboration, and diplomacy are essential soft skills when guiding authors through major revisions. These abilities ensure effective manuscript improvement and foster positive relationships with writers and publishing teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Developmental Editing jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Developmental Editing jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Developmental Editing jobs in Virginia? For Developmental Editing jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Newsletter Editor

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Announcement
Newsletter Editor
Primary Function:
The Newsletter Editor leads the strategy, development, and execution of MBN's newsletter products to grow audiences, strengthen reader engagement, and deepen relationships with subscribers. This role sits at the intersection of editorial judgment, audience development, and digital product strategy, with responsibility for curating, writing, editing, and optimizing newsletters that inform, engage, and retain readers.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The following tasks are considered essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions:
  • Own and oversee flagship newsletter products, ensuring high editorial quality, clarity, accuracy, and consistency
  • Curate, write, edit, and proofread newsletter content with strong news judgment and audience focus
  • Select stories, assign topics, and collaborate with reporters and editors on content selection and framing
  • Translate complex news and information into clear, engaging, and accessible formats
  • Maintain consistent editorial standards for tone, style, and voice
  • Develop and execute strategies to grow subscriber bases and improve engagement and retention
  • Propose, launch, and manage new newsletter products aligned with audience needs and organizational priorities
  • Experiment with formats, cadence, personalization, and engagement techniques to optimize performance
  • Monitor industry trends and apply newsletter and email marketing best practices
  • Analyze performance metrics, including open rates, click-through rates, conversions, and engagement
  • Conduct research, testing, and audience analysis to refine content and distribution strategies
  • Produce regular reports on campaign performance and recommend actionable improvements
  • Collaborate with designers to create visually compelling layouts and clear visual hierarchy
  • Partner with product, engineering, and audience teams to improve email CMS tools, workflows, and features
  • Implement newsletter templates and layouts across email distribution platforms and ESPs
  • Manage production schedules and daily publishing workflows to ensure timely delivery
  • Coordinate cross-functional communication among editorial, product, and marketing teams
  • Perform additional related duties as assigned to support departmental and organizational needs.

Other Duties:
Perform additional job-related duties and take on new responsibilities as needed based on organizational requirements and circumstances.
Qualifications and Requirements:
Candidates are required to have:
  • Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Media Studies, or a related field
  • Minimum of 3 years of newsroom, editorial, or digital publishing experience
  • Demonstrated experience writing, editing, or managing newsletters in a media environment
  • Strong editorial judgment and storytelling skills
  • Proficiency using analytics and performance data to inform decisions
  • Experience with email service providers (ESPS) or content management systems
  • Excellent written communication and collaboration skills
  • Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred:
  • Arabic language skills
  • Experience with audience growth strategies, SEO, or digital product experimentation
  • Familiarity with subscription or membership models
  • Employee Acknowledgment:

MBN is an equal opportunity employer committed to workforce diversity.