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Developmental Editor Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

ISTE+ASCD

Sr. Editor

Arlington, VA

The Sr. Editor, Integrated Content supports the editorial development, production, and optimization ofEducational Leadership magazine, EdSurge journalism, newsletters, and sponsored content ...

New

Sage

Acquisitions Editor

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$90K - $105K/yr

Content development -work closely with content development editors to resolve schedules, establish ... development achievements, hone unique value propositions, and agree upon digital resources and ...

Heartland Consulting

Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

$98K/yr

About the Role Deliver precise editing, writing, and quality oversight that ensures NGB and ANG ... development support, and the opportunity to directly influence the quality of National Guard ...

Bloomberg Industry Group

Editor at Large

Arlington, VA · On-site

As an Editor-at-Large I, you will coordinate with reporters, editors, and outside authors to direct work and boost the quality of our writing, contributed content, and idea development. You will ...

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 ...

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 ...

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All JobsDevelopmental Editor JobsDevelopmental Editor Jobs in Washington

Developmental Editor information

See Washington salary details

$12

$35

$65

How much do developmental editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 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, 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.
What are popular job titles related to Developmental Editor jobs in Washington? For Developmental Editor jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Developmental Editor jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Editor jobs in Washington are:
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

Sr. Editor

ISTE+ASCD

Arlington, VA

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

The Sr. Editor, Integrated Content supports the editorial development, production, and optimization ofEducational Leadership magazine, EdSurge journalism, newsletters, and sponsored content initiatives. This role serves as lead editor and producer for assigned content and collaborates with the Editorial Director and Editor-in-Chief to execute editorial priorities, enhance audience engagement, and maintain publishing excellence.

The ideal candidate is passionate about K-12 education and excels at shaping developing ideas and drafts into compelling stories. They bring strong digital publishing expertise and know how to adapt content to maximize engagement across search, newsletters, and social media platforms.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Magazine and News Development, Editing, and Support

  • Research critical topics, emerging teaching and learning practices, prospective authors, and content opportunities forEducational Leadership magazine; identify and recommend editorial concepts aligned with established editorial priorities.
  • Solicit articles and manage assigned content through the editorial life cycle, guiding authors through substantive revisions to ensure quality, clarity, and alignment with publication standards.
  • Substantively edit, fact-check, and proofread news stories, columns, blog posts, and other short-form content to maintain editorial excellence and publication readiness.
  • Interview education thought leaders and write feature profiles, short Q&As, blog posts, and related editorial content.
  • Leverage AI-enabled tools and emerging publishing technologies to improve editorial workflows, content operations, and production efficiency while maintaining ethical standards, editorial integrity, and publishing best practices.

Digital Newsletter Strategy and Management

  • Lead editorial planning, production, testing, and distribution of Express, a biweekly digital newsletter; provide editorial content and production support for SmartBrief daily in alignment with audience engagement goals.
  • Execute audience engagement and SEO best practices to optimize newsletter performance, including open rates, click-through rates, subscriber growth, and content reach.
  • Build, test, distribute, and troubleshoot newsletters using HubSpot and related publishing platforms.
  • Monitor newsletter and advertising performance metrics; analyze results, identify trends, provide recommendations, and execute A/B testing to continuously improve effectiveness and audience engagement.

Multimedia Production

  • Publish and optimize digital content using content management systems, including formatting articles, applying SEO metadata, and ensuring accessibility standards through practices such as alt text implementation.
  • Collaborate on podcasts and short-form, social-first video and coordinate production to maximize content distribution and audience engagement.

PRIORITY WILL BE PROVIDED TO CANDIDATES LIVING IN THE DC METRO AREA (MD, DC, or Northern VA); you will be REQUIRED to come into the Arlington, VA office one day per week.

Knowledge

  • Bachelor's degree in English, journalism, education, communications, or related field required; equivalent experience may be considered.
  • Understanding of print and/or digital publishing life cycles and developmental editing workflows.
  • Strong knowledge of digital audience psychology, SEO best practices, and newsletter distribution algorithms.

Skills and Abilities

  • Exceptional substantive writing and editing skills, with knowledge ofChicago, APA, and AP formatting.
  • Advanced proficiency in CMS and newsletter platforms.
  • Working knowledge of Adobe InCopy, video/audio editing tools, Canva, and Google Workspace.
  • Demonstrated experience using analytics tools to monitor web and newsletter performance.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask in a deadline-driven environment.
  • High adaptability and a knack for finding innovative solutions when a project throws a curveball.

Experience

  • Minimum 5-7 years of progressively responsible editorial, publishing, or digital content experience.
  • Proven track record of managing, writing, and growing digital newsletters.
  • K-12 education knowledge/experience is a plus.

Apply