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Developmental Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Developmental Editor Job Duties: Coach authors on techniques for how to teach difficult or important concepts in their manuscript Identify opportunities for authors to improve organization ...

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 ...

Development Editor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$55.27K - $65K/yr

Fairchild Books, an imprint of Bloomsbury Publishing and the leading US publisher in Fashion and Interior Design academic textbooks, is seeking a textbook development editor to join its New York team.

Development Editor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$60.08K - $65K/yr

Fairchild Books, an imprint of Bloomsbury Publishing and the leading US publisher in Fashion and Interior Design academic textbooks, is seeking a textbook development editor to join its New York team.

Development Editor

Manhattan, NY · On-site +1

$55.27K - $65K/yr

Description Fairchild Books, an imprint of Bloomsbury Publishing and the leading US publisher in Fashion and Interior Design academic textbooks, is seeking a textbook development editor to join its ...

Fairchild Books, an imprint of Bloomsbury Publishing and the leading US publisher in Fashion and Interior Design academic textbooks, is seeking a textbook development editor to join its New York team.

Video Development Editor Job Duties: Coach instructors on techniques for how to teach difficult or important concepts in their video courses Give constructive feedback on video modules regarding ...

Video Development Editor Job Duties: Coach instructors on techniques for how to teach difficult or important concepts in their video courses Give constructive feedback on video modules regarding ...

From developmental feedback to line editing and proofreading, you'll be the quality backbone of our publishing pipeline -- ensuring every story we put into the world is the best version of itself.

This role supports the Army Doctrine Development Program through editorial leadership, doctrine ... Coordinate with doctrine authors, government editors, and doctrine proponents * Maintain version ...

This role supports the Army Doctrine Development Program through editorial leadership, doctrine ... Coordinate with doctrine authors, government editors, and doctrine proponents * Maintain version ...

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Developmental Editor information

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How much do developmental editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for developmental editor in the United States is $31.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $39.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Developmental Editor, you need a strong command of language, deep understanding of narrative structure, and experience in editing or writing, often supported by a degree in English, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with editing software such as Microsoft Word (with track changes), Adobe Acrobat, and project management tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and the ability to give constructive feedback help a Developmental Editor guide authors effectively. These skills ensure manuscripts are well-organized, coherent, and compelling, ultimately leading to successful publications.

How does a developmental editor typically collaborate with authors and other editorial team members during the manuscript development process?

Developmental editors work closely with authors, providing constructive feedback on overall structure, content flow, and character development. They often hold regular meetings or exchanges to discuss revisions and clarify the author’s vision, ensuring the manuscript meets both creative and market goals. Collaboration with copy editors, proofreaders, and sometimes project managers is also common, as developmental editors help coordinate the workflow and maintain consistency throughout the editorial process. This teamwork fosters a supportive environment focused on producing the strongest possible manuscript.

What is a developmental editor?

A developmental editor is a professional who works with authors to shape the overall structure, content, and flow of a manuscript. They focus on big-picture elements such as plot, character development, pacing, organization, and clarity, rather than correcting grammar or punctuation. Developmental editors provide feedback and suggestions to help authors strengthen their work, often collaborating through multiple drafts. Their goal is to help the author produce a compelling and coherent final manuscript.

What is the difference between Developmental Editor vs Copy Editor?

AspectDevelopmental EditorCopy Editor
Primary FocusBig-picture content development, structure, and overall flowLine-by-line editing, grammar, and style consistency
Skills & CredentialsStrong editing, developmental, and storytelling skills; often a background in writing or editingExcellent grammar, punctuation, and style knowledge; often a background in editing or journalism
Work EnvironmentCollaborates closely with authors and writers during manuscript developmentReviews and refines existing text for clarity and correctness

Developmental Editors focus on shaping the content's structure and overall narrative, while Copy Editors refine the language, grammar, and style. Both roles require strong editing skills but serve different stages of the editing process, making them complementary in publishing workflows.

More about Developmental Editor jobs
What cities are hiring for Developmental Editor jobs? Cities with the most Developmental Editor job openings:
What states have the most Developmental Editor jobs? States with the most job openings for Developmental Editor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Developmental Editor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 70% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,728 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Developmental Editor

TradeJobsWorkForce

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Developmental Editor Job Duties: Coach authors on techniques for how to teach difficult or important concepts in their manuscript

Identify opportunities for authors to improve organization, presentation, clarity, and value to the book's intended audience

Continually assess manuscript content at a high level

Manage the book-development process so that authors are completing manuscripts by due dates

Ensure that manuscripts adhere to Manning's writing guidelines

Provide project status and content assessment to publisher, acquisition editor, development manager and other Manning staff

Contribute to the ongoing assessment and improvement of editorial procedures and standards

Perform occasional tasks related to the marketing of books