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Freelance Development Editor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Fundraising and development editorial is a significant part of this role, requiring a leader who ... freelancers, and agencies. * Partner closely with Communications, Marketing, and executives to ...

Fundraising and development editorial is a significant part of this role, requiring a leader who ... freelancers, and agencies. * Partner closely with Communications, Marketing, and executives to ...

Fundraising and development editorial is a significant part of this role, requiring a leader who ... freelancers, and agencies. * Partner closely with Communications, Marketing, and executives to ...

Freelance Filmmaker

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

... editing, and collaborative project development. This hands-on program encourages creativity, teamwork, and technical skill development while giving students the opportunity to create their own short ...

Freelance Filmmaker

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

... editing, and collaborative project development. This hands-on program encourages creativity, teamwork, and technical skill development while giving students the opportunity to create their own short ...

Freelance Development Editor information

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.

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 popular job titles related to Freelance Development Editor jobs in Virginia? For Freelance Development Editor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Freelance Development Editor jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Freelance Development Editor job openings:
Infographic showing various Freelance Development Editor job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Production Editor

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Current ATD Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account.
Come work at a place where innovation and teamwork come together to support the most exciting missions in the world!
Job Description:
About the Role
ATD's Production, Editorial, and Creative department is responsible for editing, designing, producing, and distributing ATD's publications, including 15+ books annually, two bi-monthly periodicals, research reports, and white papers. Additionally, the department supports the editorial and creative needs of all ATD business lines, including Marketing, Education, Conferences, Membership, Enterprise, and Global.
As a Production Editor at ATD, you will report to the Senior Manager, Editorial Services and will be responsible for managing the editorial production workflow of ATD Press books and research reports at all stages, from copyediting through delivery of final files to ensure completion of projects on time.
About ATD
The Association for Talent Development (ATD) is the premier membership organization for professionals in the learning and talent development field. Our mission is to create a world that works better by empowering professionals to develop talent in the workplace. Through training programs, membership, globally recognized certifications and events. We support individuals and organizations in talent development, to perform at the highest level.
What You'll Do
  • Project managing publications through the production life cycle, ensuring that ATD's books and research reports are published on time and meet our quality standards.
  • Working closely with authors and various in-house departments including editorial, design, and production to troubleshoot and resolve problems that arise and ensure all deadlines are met.
  • Preparing manuscripts for typesetting.
  • Contracting with freelance copyeditors, proofreaders, and indexers, and reviewing their work.
  • Reviewing copyedited manuscripts and reconciling copyeditor and author markups; and reviewing, routing, and collating corrections for all stages of manuscripts and proofs.
  • Copyediting, proofreading, and routing metadata and cover materials.
  • Creating and maintaining publishing timelines in Wrike for each title.
  • Creating scripts for audiobooks.
  • Copyediting and proofreading publications and other long-form content as required.

What We're Looking For
  • 3 years' experience editing, proofreading, and writing.
  • Bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or equivalent degree.
  • Proven editorial skills, including the ability to edit, rewrite, proofread (using formal proofreading marks and practices), and quality check at a variety of publishing stages, including manuscripts, page proofs, and printer proofs.
  • Familiarity with Chicago Manual of Style and accustomed to working with specific style guides.
  • Excellent project management skills, including scheduling, time management, and risk management.
  • Detail and accuracy oriented and able to balance many projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while maintaining high standards of quality.
  • Works comfortably with basic computer programs, including tracked changes in Word and the commenting tools in Adobe Acrobat.
  • Knowledge of InDesign and InCopy.
  • Experience using Wrike or similar project management tools.

Why Join Us
  • Opportunity to contribute to the creation and publication of books, research reports, and other resources that advance the talent development profession.
  • Collaborative and mission-driven team environment.
  • Exposure to all aspects of the publishing process, from manuscript development through final production.
  • Opportunity to work with authors, editors, designers, and subject matter experts across the organization.
  • Opportunity to grow and develop professionally within a well-established organization.

Meet the Editorial Team
  • The Editorial Services team is a collaborative team that supports the broader Production, Editorial, and Creative department.
  • We are responsible for editing ATD's books, research reports, education content, marketing emails, promotional materials, website content, and event content.

Work Environment
This role is based in Alexandria, VA and follows a hybrid work model, offering a mix of in-office collaboration and flexibility.
Our office is located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria on King Street - just steps from the Metro, waterfront, and a vibrant mix of shops and restaurants. The environment is energetic and collaborative, providing regular opportunities to connect with teammates and leadership.
We are committed to employee growth and development, offering professional development resources, dedicated learning time, and organization-wide learning initiatives. We also foster a strong sense of community through team events, recognition programs, and company gatherings.
If this opportunity aligns with your experience and interests, we'd love to hear from you!
Benefits:
Employment at ATD isn't just about a job - it's about our employees' well-being. Our ATD LiveWell program provides a variety of essential and fun benefits based on areas of Physical, Financial, Social, and Career health. Look at some (but not all) of what we offer and see for yourself!
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Paid Time Off (PTO, Personal Days, Sick Time, Sabbaticals, Learning Hours)
  • 403(b) plan options with 6% company match and immediate vesting on employee contributions
  • Flexible Spending and Health Savings accounts
  • Unlimited Professional Development through ATD (classes, certifications, resources, etc.)
  • Wellness library and events (virtual and in-person)
  • On-site gym
  • Basic and supplemental life insurance coverages
  • Accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity
  • Company paid Teladoc visits
  • New parent benefits
  • Short- and long-term disability
  • Employee discount program (Tickets at Work, Verizon, Hertz, and more)
  • Pet insurance

EEO Statement:
ATD is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, age, color, national origin, sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Need Assistance:
ATD is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations for any applicant with a disability. If you are disabled and need assistance participating in the application or hiring process please contact us at recruiting@td.org or you may call us at 1.800.628.2783.