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Freelance Development Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DataAnnotation

Freelance Writer

Bismarck, ND · Remote

$20/hr

In this role you will need to hold an expert level of writing, editing, and content development ... Freelance Writer jobs in North Dakota, United States . #J-18808-Ljbffr

DataAnnotation

Freelance Writer

Bismarck, ND · Remote

$20/hr

In this role you will need to hold an expert level of writing, editing, and content development ... Freelance Writer jobs in North Dakota, United States . #J-18808-Ljbffr

DataAnnotation

Freelance Writer

Nashville, TN · Remote

$20/hr

Join to apply for the Freelance Writer role at DataAnnotation . We are looking for a Freelance ... In this role you will need to hold an expert level of writing, editing, and content development.

DataAnnotation

Freelance Writer

Lansing, MI · Remote

$20/hr

Overview Join to apply for the Freelance Writer role at DataAnnotation . We are looking for a ... You will need an expert level of writing, editing, and content development. Other related fields ...

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How much do freelance development editor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance development editor in the United States is $82,351.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $97,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Freelance Development Editor do?

A Freelance Development Editor helps authors refine their manuscripts by focusing on structure, clarity, coherence, and overall effectiveness. They provide feedback on elements like plot, pacing, character development, and argument strength, depending on the type of writing. Unlike copy editors, they concentrate on big-picture issues rather than grammar and syntax. Working independently, they collaborate with writers, publishers, or businesses on a project basis to improve content. Their goal is to enhance the manuscript’s impact and readability before it moves to the next stage of editing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Freelance Development Editor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Development Editor, you need expertise in substantive editing, a keen eye for story structure, and a firm grasp of grammar and style, usually supported by a background in English, journalism, or publishing. Familiarity with editing tools such as Microsoft Word (track changes), Google Docs, and project management platforms is common, while certification from organizations like the Editorial Freelancers Association can be beneficial. Excellent communication, time management, and the ability to give and receive constructive feedback are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are essential for ensuring manuscript quality, meeting client expectations, and managing multiple projects efficiently in a freelance environment.

What are some typical challenges faced by Freelance Development Editors?

Freelance Development Editors often juggle multiple projects and clients simultaneously, which requires strong organizational and time management skills. Challenges may include navigating differing author expectations, tight deadlines, and the need for clear communication while working remotely. Since you may work with clients around the world, adapting your approach to fit diverse genres, styles, and publishing standards is important. Overcoming these challenges helps you build a solid reputation and maintain steady workflow in the competitive freelancing market.
More about Freelance Development Editor jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Development Editor jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Development Editor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Development Editor jobs? The most popular types of Development Editor jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Freelance Development Editor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Development Editor jobs are:
Freelance Development Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Development Editor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 3% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 12% Temporary, 69% Contract, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 72% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,351 per year, or $39.6 per hour.
Developmental Editor

Developmental Editor

Manning Publications Co

Shelter Island, NY • On-site

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Manning Publication publishes books for technology professionals including programmers, system administrators, designers, architects, managers and others. We care about the quality of our books, and we think of our authors as the most valuable part of our business. We work with our authors to coax out of them the best writing they can produce. We consult with technical experts on book proposals and manuscripts, and we may use as many as two dozen reviewers in various stages of preparing a manuscript. The abilities of each author are nurtured to encourage him or her to write a first-rate book.
Job Description
Developmental editor
Manning Publications Co. seeks Developmental Editors to work directly with book authors to create high-quality manuscripts on time. Ideal candidates are critical thinkers who skillfully identify and articulate weaknesses in a manuscript's organization and writing, adopt a coaching/mentoring role with authors, firmly but diplomatically communicate with authors, work both independently and in a distributed team environment, and reliably meet deadlines. Candidates must possess passing knowledge of software concepts and technologies (such as mobile application development, responsive design, cloud computing, big data and analytics, and agile and lean development). This is a great position for someone looking for part-time work (15-20 hours a week).
Primary duties
  • Coach authors on techniques for how to teach difficult or important concepts in their manuscript
  • Identify opportunities for authors to improve organization, presentation, clarity, and value to the book's intended audience
  • Continually assess manuscript content at a high level
  • Manage the book-development process so that authors are completing manuscripts by due dates
  • Ensure that manuscripts adhere to Manning's writing guidelines
  • Provide project status and content assessment to publisher, acquisition editor, development manager and other Manning staff
  • Contribute to the ongoing assessment and improvement of editorial procedures and standards
  • Perform occasional tasks related to the marketing of books

Please note: This position does not include copy editing duties
Must have requirements
  • General understanding of technical concepts, software development, and current industry trends
  • 1+ years previous substantive editing experience
  • Must be available for a minimum of 20 hours per week (primarily during U.S. business hours).
  • Strong project- and time-management skills
  • Excellent organization and multitasking skills
  • Must be proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, etc.), Adobe Acrobat, and other tools required in an online environment.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills; comfortable communicating via email, Skype, and phone
  • Must have remote office setup (computer, Internet and email access, reliable phone line)

Preferred qualifications
Previous experience in a book publishing environment
Qualifications
Additional Information
Apply for this position
Email your resume and two references with job DE-2018-8 in the subject line. If selected for an interview, be prepared to complete an editing sample. This is a freelance, telecommute opportunity (no travel).

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