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Developmental Editor Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

BryceTech

Senior Editor

Arlington, VA

We specialize in systems engineering, advanced analytics, R&D programs, and strategic advisory ... BryceTech is seeking a Senior Editor to support National Guard Bureau executive leadership by ...

BryceTech

Senior Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

We specialize in systems engineering, advanced analytics, R&D programs, and strategic advisory ... BryceTech is seeking a Senior Editor to support National Guard Bureau executive leadership by ...

BryceTech

Senior Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

We specialize in systems engineering, advanced analytics, R&D programs, and strategic advisory ... BryceTech is seeking a Senior Editor to support National Guard Bureau executive leadership by ...

Distant Moon

Film Editor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

... and creative development across all stages of filmmaking. This is an in-person role working ... directors, editors, producers, and creatives in a highly collaborative studio environment. The ...

Stand Together

Deputy Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

This role will oversee Development Communications, including the editorial calendar, workflows, review cycles, deadlines, approvals, and handoffs. The Deputy Editor will directly manage writers ...

Stand Together

Deputy Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

This role will oversee Development Communications, including the editorial calendar, workflows, review cycles, deadlines, approvals, and handoffs. The Deputy Editor will directly manage writers ...

Stand Together

Deputy Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

This role will oversee Development Communications, including the editorial calendar, workflows, review cycles, deadlines, approvals, and handoffs. The Deputy Editor will directly manage writers ...

The Washington Post

Economics Editor

Washington, DC

$137K - $228K/yr

Work closely with editors across the Politics & Government department and other parts of the newsroom to execute comprehensive coverage of major economic developments. * Partner with Visuals and ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Technical Editor

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

... and development practices. Summary: Goldbelt Hawk is seeking a Technical Editor to provide continued support to the DTRA NE-MA Department's customers and programs. Facilitating vulnerability ...

The Washington Post

Economics Editor

Washington, DC · On-site

$137K - $228K/yr

Work closely with editors across the Politics & Government department and other parts of the newsroom to execute comprehensive coverage of major economic developments. * Partner with Visuals and ...

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Developmental Editor information

See Washington salary details

$12

$35

$65

How much do developmental editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for developmental editor in Washington is $35.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.23 and $44.90 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 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.

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 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.
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What cities in Washington are hiring for Developmental Editor jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Developmental Editor job openings:
Developmental Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Developmental Editor job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,443 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

Senior Technical Editor

Patriot Enterprises LLC

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description:
  • The FHA Senior Technical Editor oversees the entire editorial process for high-stakes technical documentation, ensuring stylistic consistency across large-scale programs and mentoring junior staff
  • Leads a team responsible for transforming raw data and engineering jargon into authoritative documents that meet the stringent requirements of the agency, including reference checking, fact checking, and ensuring copyright compliance

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Focus on substantive editing, verifying technical accuracy, and ensuring compliance with agency style guides for all documents, reports, and manuals
  • Lead an independently working team, managing the full lifecycle of a document from outline to final publication including online and web publishing
  • Collaborate with subject matter experts (SMEs), project managers, technical staff, leadership, and stakeholders to translate complex technical, scientific, regulatory, or policy information into clear, concise, and audience-appropriate communications
  • Establish, maintain, and enforce editorial standards, writing conventions, branding requirements, and document formatting guidelines to ensure consistency across all organizational publications
  • Provide substantive editing, copy editing, line editing, and developmental editing to improve document quality, logical flow, readability, and usability while preserving technical accuracy and author intent
  • Review documents for compliance with applicable organizational policies, contractual requirements, regulatory guidance, publication standards, and accessibility requirements

Education:
  • Master's Degree (Senior) in English, Journalism, or a technical field

Experience:
  • 10+ years of supervisory and project management experience; FHA transportation experience, especially in highway and surface transportation is preferred
  • This position requires an expert-level command of the US Government Publishing Office (GPO) Style Manual and an eye for detail when ensuring quality control for all publications and documents

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