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First Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Free Press

Contributions Editor

New York, NY · On-site

$140K - $165K/yr

We need an editor who can respond quickly to news events, craft smart stories, and get the best out ... In this role, you'll work directly with outside writers-from established voices to first-time ...

The Global Talent Co

Video Editor

Video Editor Full-Time (40 hours/week) | Fully Remote Check out The Global Talent Co.'s talent ... Create and optimize social-first video content for YouTube, TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts ...

The Free Press

Contributions Editor

New York, NY · On-site +1

We need an editor who can respond quickly to news events, craft smart stories, and get the best out ... In this role, you'll work directly with outside writers--from established voices to first-time ...

Howard

Video Editor

Locke, NY · On-site

... first abolitionist newspapers for a new day. Our mission, like those who came before us, is to ... The Video Editor is a multimedia producer who can nimbly report, script, shoot, edit, and produce ...

Dude Perfect

Social Content Editor

Frisco, TX

Social Content Editor About Us Dude Perfect isn't just a YouTube channel, we're a global sports and ... Transform and repurpose long-form content, applying a social-first lens to pacing, structure ...

Baltimore Sun

Sports Editor

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Description The Baltimore Sun, Maryland's leading news organization since 1837, is seeking a digital-first Sports Editor to lead coverage focused on exclusive insight, accountability journalism, and ...

Dude Perfect

Social Content Editor

Frisco, TX · On-site

Social Content Editor About Us Dude Perfect isn't just a YouTube channel, we're a global sports and ... Transform and repurpose long-form content, applying a social-first lens to pacing, structure ...

Always Lancaster

Website Editor

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$50.70K - $56K/yr

The website editor, working under the digital production team leader, is the gatekeeper for ... digital-first content · Create shell posts for breaking news and support rapid publishing · ...

143 Studios LLC

Video Editor

Boston, MA · On-site +1

... first-of-its-kind audio and visual content that inspires and empowers millions of people globally ... About the Role We're looking for a highly skilled Video Editor to join our Post Production team.

Bally's Corporation

Feature Editor

Chicago, IL

STADIUM is looking for a team-first, highly professional, and creative Feature Editor to help in creating industry-leading OTA & OTT video programs covering college and pro sports for distribution on ...

Bloomsbury

Development Editor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$55.27K - $65K/yr

... textbook development editor to join its New York team. Position Summary: Communicate the ... Ensure that author meets interim schedule for delivery of 1st draft through final manuscript ...

WHYY

Managing Editor, Delaware

Wilmington, DE

About the Role WHYY News seeks a Managing Editor, Delaware to support the journalism and the team of journalists covering the First State. The editing responsibilities include assigning, shaping ...

Bloomsbury Publishing Inc

Development Editor

Manhattan, NY · On-site +1

$55.27K - $65K/yr

... textbook development editor to join its New York team. Position Summary: Communicate the ... Ensure that author meets interim schedule for delivery of 1st draft through final manuscript ...

Bloomsbury Publishing

Development Editor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$60.08K - $65K/yr

... textbook development editor to join its New York team. Position Summary: Communicate the ... Ensure that author meets interim schedule for delivery of 1st draft through final manuscript ...

WHYY Inc

Managing Editor, Delaware

Wilmington, DE

About the Role WHYY News seeks a Managing Editor, Delaware to support the journalism and the team of journalists covering the First State. The editing responsibilities include assigning, shaping ...

The Free Press

Contributions Editor

New York, NY · On-site +1

$140K - $165K/yr

We need an editor who can respond quickly to news events, craft smart stories, and get the best out ... In this role, you'll work directly with outside writers-from established voices to first-time ...

Always Lancaster

Website Editor

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$50.70K - $56K/yr

The website editor, working under the digital production team leader, is the gatekeeper for ... and digital-first content Create shell posts for breaking news and support rapid publishing ...

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How much do first editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for first 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Editor, you need excellent language proficiency, strong attention to detail, and a solid background in editing or journalism, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with editing tools like Adobe InCopy, Microsoft Word track changes, and content management systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, collaboration, and time management skills help editors work effectively with writers and meet strict deadlines. These skills ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency in published content, maintaining the publication's quality and reputation.

What are some common challenges a First Editor faces when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

A First Editor often juggles several projects at different stages of development, which requires strong organizational and time management skills. Balancing tight deadlines, coordinating with writers, and ensuring consistent quality across all content can be challenging. Effective communication and prioritization are essential to keep projects on track, address unexpected issues, and maintain a smooth workflow within the editorial team.

What are First Editors?

First Editors are professionals in the publishing or media industries responsible for reviewing and revising initial drafts of content. Their main role is to ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency before the material moves further along in the editorial process. They may suggest structural changes, correct grammar and style issues, and provide feedback to writers. First Editors play a crucial role in shaping the quality and readability of articles, books, or scripts.

What is the difference between First Editor vs Copy Editor?

AspectFirst EditorCopy Editor
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or related field; experience in editingSimilar credentials; often holds a degree in English, journalism, or communications
Work EnvironmentWorks in publishing houses, media companies, or freelance settings, overseeing content qualityWorks in publishing, media, or freelance, focusing on correcting grammar, style, and consistency
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in publishing, media, and content production to manage editorial workflowCommonly employed in publishing, journalism, and corporate communications for detailed editing

While both First Editors and Copy Editors work in editing and share similar qualifications, First Editors typically oversee the entire editing process and manage content flow, whereas Copy Editors focus on correcting language, grammar, and style details. Understanding these roles helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the editing industry.

More about First Editor jobs
What job categories do people searching First Editor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for First Editor jobs are:
First Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Editor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 74% Part Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 70% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,728 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Contributions Editor

The Free Press

New York, NY • On-site

$140K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

The Free Press is growing fast. We need an editor who can respond quickly to news events, craft smart stories, and get the best out of writers. We're looking for a sharp, creative, and highly organized Contributions Editor to join our editorial team. In this role, you'll work directly with outside writers-from established voices to first-time contributors-to bring compelling stories, and arguments to life for our audience. You'll be the bridge between The Free Press and a diverse set of thinkers, ensuring that every piece we publish is distinctive, rigorous, and true to our mission.
Responsibilities
  • Source, commission, and edit contributions from freelance writers, subject-matter experts, and opinion leaders.
  • Shape pitches into strong, clear, and original stories aligned with The Free Press's editorial standards.
  • Provide structural, line, and copy edits as needed, guiding contributors through the process from draft to publication.
  • Work closely with senior editors to set priorities, maintain the editorial calendar, and ensure timely delivery of content.
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with writers, academics, journalists, and other potential contributors.
  • Help brainstorm editorial packages, special series, and big-picture coverage ideas.
  • Collaborate with design, audience, and production teams to maximize reach and impact.

Qualifications
  • 4+ years of experience as an editor in journalism, publishing, or related fields.
  • Demonstrated skill in editing op-eds, essays, or reported features.
  • A strong editorial voice with the ability to sharpen arguments and elevate prose.
  • Excellent organizational skills and ability to juggle multiple projects at once.
  • Familiarity with the current media and cultural landscape, with an eye for stories that break through.
  • A track record of working with a wide range of writers, from seasoned journalists to emerging voices.
  • Passion for The Free Press's mission and curiosity about ideas across the political and cultural spectrum

$140,000 - $165,000 a year
Location: New York, NU (in office; remote US considered for exceptional candidates)
Employment: Full-time
Other benefits: health, dental, vision; 401(k); paid time off and holidays; parental leave; short and long-term incentive plans
The Free Press is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please email to [email protected].

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