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Editing Jobs in Ottawa, IL (NOW HIRING)

Stay current on developments in technical writing, editing, publishing, and AI-enabled editorial practices * Manage editorial tasks and information flow using Optimizely What success looks like

Editing information

See Ottawa, IL salary details

$11

$31

$57

How much do editing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for editing in Ottawa, IL is $31.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $39.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an editor do?

Editing is the process of reviewing and revising content to improve clarity, accuracy, and overall quality before publication or distribution. An editor checks for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and consistency, and may also reorganize sections to enhance flow and readability. Depending on the field, editors may work on books, articles, videos, or other media, collaborating closely with writers and creators to ensure the final product meets professional standards.

What are different kinds of editing jobs?

There are several different categories of editing jobs, including developmental editing, copy editing, and proofreading. There are also visual editing jobs, such as film or television editing. All of these jobs come with different responsibilities and duties. As a developmental editor, for example, you work closely with an author or writer to flesh out a novel or book. You read rough drafts and provide extensive notes and constructive criticism about character development, narrative structure, and other elements, and assist the writer to publish the manuscript.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Editor, you need strong language proficiency, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of grammar, style guides, and editorial standards, often supported by a degree in English, journalism, or communications. Familiarity with editing software like Adobe InCopy, Microsoft Word's track changes, and content management systems is typically required. Excellent communication, time management, and collaboration skills help editors work effectively with writers and other stakeholders. These competencies ensure content accuracy, consistency, and quality, which are crucial for maintaining publication standards and audience trust.

What are some common challenges editors face when working with multiple writers on a project?

Editors who collaborate with multiple writers often encounter challenges such as maintaining a consistent tone and style across different sections, ensuring deadlines are met by all contributors, and managing varying skill levels or writing approaches. Effective communication and clear editorial guidelines are essential to streamline the process. Editors may also need to provide constructive feedback and mediate creative differences to produce a cohesive final product.

What is the difference between Editing vs Copywriting?

AspectEditingCopywriting
Primary FocusReviewing and refining content for clarity, accuracy, and styleCreating persuasive content to promote products or services
Skills NeededStrong language skills, attention to detail, editing techniquesCreativity, marketing knowledge, persuasive writing
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, media companies, online platformsAdvertising agencies, marketing departments, freelance
Common CertificationsEditing certifications, journalism degreesCopywriting courses, marketing certifications

While both editing and copywriting involve writing skills, editing focuses on improving existing content for clarity and correctness, whereas copywriting aims to craft compelling messages to persuade or inform audiences.

Are editors still in demand?

Editors remain in demand across various industries such as publishing, media, and digital content, especially as the need for high-quality communication grows. Skills in editing software, attention to detail, and adaptability to new formats like digital media are valuable in this field.

How do I get into an editing job?

To start an editing job, develop strong language and communication skills, gain experience through internships or freelance projects, and build a portfolio of your work. Familiarity with editing tools like Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, or Avid Media Composer can also improve your chances. A relevant degree or certification in journalism, communications, or media studies can be beneficial.

What jobs can you get with editing?

Jobs with editing include roles such as copy editor, content editor, technical editor, and proofreader. These positions often require strong language skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with editing tools like Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat. Editors work in publishing, media, marketing, and corporate communications environments.

What cities near Ottawa, IL are hiring for Editing jobs?

Cities near Ottawa, IL with the most Editing job openings:

Infographic showing various Editing job openings in Ottawa, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,980 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Technical Editor

Ottawa, IL • On-site

Ciena
Telecommunications • 5 - 10K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We're a technology company that leads with our humanity-driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

The Technical Editor supports Ciena's Editorial Team by providing editorial review, guidance, and quality assurance for high-quality B2B marketing content. The role edits long-form and short-form content across a wide range of formats-including data sheets, white papers, brochures, articles, web pages, emails, videos, presentations, banner ads, and digital and physical event assets-to ensure clarity, consistency, accuracy, and alignment with Ciena's editorial style and brand guidelines. Working closely with subject matter experts, content strategists, and cross-functional partners, the Technical Editor helps strengthen content quality, improve asset structure and flow, and support efficient content delivery across channels.

How you will make an impact

  • Review and edit marketing assets to improve quality, clarity, consistency, accuracy, and flow
  • Correct spelling, grammar, usage, and mechanics while ensuring adherence to Ciena's editorial style and brand guidelines
  • Work with Brand, Legal, Portfolio Marketing, Communications, and other stakeholders to ensure marketing assets meet internal standards for publishing
  • Provide recommendations on asset structure, organization, tone, and format to help authors strengthen content effectiveness
  • Apply editorial judgment across product-, solution-, and technology-oriented communications
  • Stay current on developments in technical writing, editing, publishing, and AI-enabled editorial practices
  • Manage editorial tasks and information flow using Optimizely

What success looks like

  • Consistent delivery of clear, accurate, high-quality, on-brand marketing content across formats and channels
  • Strong adherence to editorial style, brand guidelines, and internal publishing standards
  • Improved content quality, structure, and readability through thoughtful editorial guidance
  • Positive collaboration with subject matter experts and cross-functional stakeholders
  • Effective management of editorial workflows, priorities, and deadlines across multiple projects

The must haves

  • Bachelor's degree in English, Communications, Writing, or a related field
  • 8+ years of professional editing and writing experience, preferably in technical fields
  • Excellent written and verbal communication/presentation skills
  • Strong understanding of marketing content, from high-level brand messaging to product- and solution-oriented communications
  • Strong attention to detail, quality assurance, and brand governance
  • Ability to collaborate effectively and build consensus across cross-functional global teams
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and SharePoint

Nice to have

  • Experience working in a technology, telecommunications, or B2B environment
  • Familiarity with Ciena's industry, solutions, and competitive landscape
  • Experience with content operations platforms such as Optimizely


Pay range: USD 89,900 to 143,000
CAD 97,900 to 156,000

Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.
At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is anEqual Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.