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Developmental Editor Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Epitec

Editor - III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$46 - $50/hr

... development, editing, and publication of high-quality research content. This individual will edit scholarly articles, research periodicals, e-newsletters, website content, and speeches, helping ...

The Elizabeth Hospice

Editor

Deerfield, IL · On-site

Actively participates in the meetings by providing committees professional opinions on test material editing. f) Assists Managers, Test Development with preparation of final test copy of written and ...

Crain

Deputy Editor

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

Oversee the development of newsletters, recurring franchises, and editorial products that build ... Editing Excellence * Raise the quality and impact of daily journalism through strong editing and ...

American

Managing Editor, IRW

Campus, IL

Oversee those on contract for reporting, editing, design, and web development. * Approve any and all use of proprietary or subscription-based tools to do our work. * Collaborate with the data editor ...

VIVA USA INC

Research Editor

Chicago, IL · On-site

Research Editor - Contractor The client is seeking a talented, mission-driven editor with a passion ... development, and financial services Ability to collaborate effectively and thrive in a team ...

Stefanini Group

Research Editor

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

Stefanini is looking for Research Editor in Chicago, IL (Hybrid) For quick apply, please contact ... Understanding of and keen interest in economics, community development, and financial services

Stefanini

Research Editor

Chicago, IL · On-site

Stefanini is looking for Research Editor in Chicago, IL (Hybrid) For quick apply, please contact ... development, and financial services Ability to collaborate effectively and thrive in a team ...

Stefanini

Research Editor

Chicago, IL · On-site

Stefanini is looking for Research Editor in Chicago, IL (Hybrid)For quick apply, please contact ... development, and financial servicesAbility to collaborate effectively and thrive in a team ...

Stefanini Group

Research Editor

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

Stefanini is looking for Research Editor in Chicago, IL (Hybrid) For quick apply, please contact ... Understanding of and keen interest in economics, community development, and financial services

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All JobsDevelopmental Editor JobsDevelopmental Editor Jobs in Illinois

Developmental Editor information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$30

$55

How much do developmental editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for developmental editor in Illinois is $30.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.72 and $38.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a developmental editor?

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Developmental Editor jobs in Illinois?

For Developmental Editor jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Developmental Editor jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Developmental Editor jobs in Illinois are:

Developmental Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Developmental Editor job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,692 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

Editor - III

Epitec

Chicago, IL • On-site

$46 - $50/hr

Contractor

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

  • Location: Chicago, Illinois
  • Type: Contract
  • Job #105807

Title: Research Editor
Location: Chicago, IL
Details: 24-month contract with ongoing need, opportunity for direct hire, Hybrid position onsite 4 days weekly
Pay Rate: $46.00 - 50.00/hr. with benefit inclusions
Job Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented Research Editor to support the development, editing, and publication of high-quality research content. This individual will edit scholarly articles, research periodicals, e-newsletters, website content, and speeches, helping translate complex technical and economic subject matter into clear, engaging communications for broad audiences. The ideal candidate is a collaborative, highly organized editor with strong writing skills, a commitment to accuracy, and an interest in leveraging AI tools to enhance editorial workflows.
Responsibilities
  • Copyedit and proofread research publications, periodicals, e-newsletters, and related editorial content.
  • Perform substantive editing of manuscripts and research documents to improve clarity, consistency, and readability.
  • Edit and review content intended for publication on public-facing websites and digital platforms.
  • Collaborate with researchers and subject matter experts to translate complex topics into accessible communications.
  • Communicate editorial processes, revisions, and timelines with authors and stakeholders.
  • Review and verify bibliographies, citations, tables, charts, figures, indexes, and other publication elements.
  • Utilize AI-enabled tools to improve editorial efficiency and content quality.
  • Review HTML-converted content and coordinate revisions with web production teams.
  • Maintain accurate records of editorial projects within tracking and documentation systems.
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting quality standards and deadlines.

Years of Experience and Education
  • Bachelor's degree in English, Journalism, Economics, Communications, or a related field; equivalent professional experience may be considered.
  • Minimum of 4 years of professional experience in content editing, copyediting, proofreading, or related editorial work.
  • Experience editing technical, academic, research, or subject matter expert-driven content preferred.
  • Experience supporting publications through review, approval, and production processes.

Skills Required
  • Advanced copyediting, proofreading, and substantive editing skills.
  • Strong knowledge of editorial style guides, including Chicago Manual of Style or similar standards.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to explain and present complex subject matter in a clear and engaging manner.
  • Experience reviewing page layouts, content formatting, and publication-ready materials.
  • Familiarity with AI research tools and prompt engineering concepts.
  • Experience working with web content management systems and reviewing HTML-formatted content.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with authors, researchers, and cross-functional teams.
  • Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to prioritize competing deadlines.
  • Demonstrated curiosity, adaptability, and commitment to continuous learning.
  • Interest in economics, public policy, research communications, financial services, or related subject matter.

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