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Developmental Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BJU Education Group

Editor (Science)

Greenville, SC · On-site

Developmental Editing-Evaluate the overall soundness of a writer's manuscript from a broad perspective; make corrections and/or query the writer in areas such as length, organization, factual and ...

Marylandconnect

This position is essential for the development, editing, and publication of research documents. Responsibilities: * Duties and responsibilities are, but not limited to - * Develop relationships with ...

Macmillan

Associate Editor

Manhattan, NY · On-site +1

$60K - $65K/yr

Working closely with a Senior Editor, this role will acquire or co-acquire and edit primarily ... Key responsibilities include acquisitions, editorial development of manuscripts, maintaining strong ...

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How much do developmental editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 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 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.
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Developmental Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Developmental Editor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,728 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Medical Editor

Medical Editor

American College of Physicians

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

The Medical Education Division of the American College of Physicians (ACP) is seeking a candidate for the position of Medical Editor for the Assessment and Education Programs (AEP) department. ACP, a national organization of internal medicine physicians with headquarters in Philadelphia, is the largest medical specialty organization and the second-largest physician group in the United States with more than 163,000 members worldwide.  

The Medical Editor is responsible for the management of assigned AEP products from planning through production. This includes substantive/developmental editing of selected Medical Knowledge Self-Assessment Program (MKSAP) clinical material in the content areas of internal medicine, including syllabus, multiple-choice questions (MCQs), updates, and digital enhancements; the Internal Medicine In-Training Examination (IM-ITE); and other Medical Education Division programs as assigned. This is a hybrid position with 2 days a week in-office required.

 Responsibilities of the Medical Editor include but are not limited to:

  • Substantively edit all AEP materials, including syllabus text, tables, figures, and MCQs, while adhering to the AEP style guide and standardized grammatical, punctuation, spelling, and usage rules.
  • Work with committees, subject matter experts, and clinical editors to develop content outlines, direct discussions, and evaluate and revise material; ensure assignments are completed on time and according to program specifications.
  • Represent ACP and AEP at committee meetings and conduct tutorials on the development and evaluation of MCQs.
  • Understand all facets of production, from file conversion through electronic production.
  • Contribute to management and organization of AEP content and assets via content management and/or MCQ database systems.
  • Collaborate with the Creative Services department on the production of all graphics.
  • Collaborate with the Senior Digital Content Associate on development of multimedia.
  • Assist with proofreading of products in all electronic production stages using standard proofreading conventions. 

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree, preferably in English, Journalism, or Biology, and two or more years of work-related experience in a medical editing environment.
  • Ability to substantively edit medical content and address issues of organization, clarity, and appropriateness for the audience, conforming to departmental style and usage.
  • Thorough knowledge of grammatical and punctuation concepts and consistent application of this knowledge during all editorial tasks; strong proofreading and copyediting skills essential.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of electronic production for a digital platform preferable. Knowledge of test development principles, psychometric activities, and concepts in self-assessment and continuing medical education helpful.
  • Excellent skills in Word required; familiarity with Excel and PowerPoint preferable. 
  • Strong oral and written communication skills required to interact effectively with all levels of ACP staff and physician-based committees.


ACP offers a competitive salary, superior benefits, and a supportive work environment. Find out more about ACP at: https://www.acponline.org/working-at-acp. Interested candidates should apply on our ADP link with their cover letter and resume.

ACP is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their age, race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected class.