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Freelance Fiction Book Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crossway

Editor, Academic Books

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Book Department Editor Reports to : Vice President of Editorial and Director of Editorial, Book ... Engaging and reviewing the work of freelance proofreaders and indexers * Working through projects ...

Simon & Schuster

Production Editor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$58K - $62K/yr

... best in fiction and nonfiction for readers of all ages, and in all printed, digital and audio ... Engage and manage freelance copyeditors/proofreaders/indexers; ensure adherence to house style ...

Wayne State University

Assistant Editor

Detroit, MI · On-site

Assistin editing book manuscripts; identifying and overseeing freelancers, electroniccoding and manuscript clean up, and interfacing with authors, contributors andeditors. * Provideassistance in ...

Fox

Freelance Foreign Desk Editor

New York, NY

We are looking for a highly motivated, proactive, and thorough Freelance Editor to join our Foreign ... Book live shots and support field crews covering international stories * Book satellite ...

Hachette Book Group

Production Editor

New York, NY · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

The Production Editor will work closely with the editorial, design, and production teams, and will ... freelancers a plus * Children's publishing experience a plus. As a leading book publisher, we ...

Hachette Book Group

Production Editor

New York, NY · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

The Production Editor will work closely with the editorial, design, and production teams, and will ... freelancers a plus * Children's publishing experience a plus. As a leading book publisher, we ...

Hachette Book Group

Production Editor

New York, NY

$62K - $66K/yr

The Production Editor will work closely with the editorial, design, and production teams, and will ... freelancers a plus * Children's publishing experience a plus. As a leading book publisher, we ...

Bloomsbury

Publicist/Senior Publicist

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Pitch book clubs and festivals for genre fiction leads * Managing pitching and coordinating for 5-10 author events per year * Cultivate and maintain relationships with reviewers, editors, freelancers ...

Macmillan

Designer - Celadon

Manhattan, NY · On-site +1

$60K - $65K/yr

... fiction and non-fiction book jackets. The ideal candidate will have a keen sense of commercial ... Collaborate with freelancers, illustrators, photographers, and agents * Identify, hire, and manage ...

Macmillan Learning

Designer - Celadon

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

... fiction and non-fiction book jackets. The ideal candidate will have a keen sense of commercial ... Collaborate with freelancers, illustrators, photographers, and agents * Identify, hire, and manage ...

Macmillan Learning

Designer - Celadon

Austin, TX · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

... fiction and non-fiction book jackets. The ideal candidate will have a keen sense of commercial ... Collaborate with freelancers, illustrators, photographers, and agents * Identify, hire, and manage ...

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Freelance Fiction Book Editor information

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How much do freelance fiction book editor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance fiction book editor in the United States is $64,031.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do freelance fiction book editors get paid?

Freelance fiction book editors typically earn between $25 and $75 per hour, depending on experience, project complexity, and client budget. Some editors charge flat rates per project, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars for a full-length book. Rates vary widely based on skill level, reputation, and the scope of editing required.

How does a freelance fiction book editor typically collaborate with authors throughout the editing process?

Freelance fiction book editors usually work closely with authors via email, video calls, or shared documents to provide feedback and guidance. The process often involves multiple rounds of edits, starting with developmental feedback on plot, character, and pacing, followed by line and copyediting for language and consistency. Clear communication and flexibility are key, as editors must respect the author's vision while offering constructive suggestions. Regular check-ins and transparent timelines help ensure a smooth workflow and a successful partnership.

What does a freelance fiction book editor do?

A Freelance Fiction Book Editor works with authors to improve the quality of fiction manuscripts before publication. Their responsibilities include correcting grammar and punctuation, refining plot structure, enhancing character development, and ensuring consistency in style and tone. They may offer developmental editing (big-picture feedback), line editing (sentence-level improvements), or copyediting (grammar and mechanics). Freelance editors work independently, often managing multiple clients and projects simultaneously. Their goal is to help authors produce polished, engaging, and market-ready books.

How do I become a freelance fiction book editor?

To become a freelance fiction book editor, develop strong editing skills through training or experience, familiarize yourself with editing tools like Microsoft Word or editing software, and build a portfolio of editing samples. Networking with authors and publishers, setting competitive rates, and establishing an online presence can help attract clients and grow your freelance editing business.

What is the difference between Freelance Fiction Book Editor vs Freelance Non-Fiction Book Editor?

AspectFreelance Fiction Book EditorFreelance Non-Fiction Book Editor
CredentialsTypically requires editing certifications, writing experience, and familiarity with storytellingRequires editing certifications, subject matter expertise, and research skills
Work EnvironmentRemote, project-based, collaborating with authors and publishersRemote, project-based, working with authors, publishers, and academic or professional content
Industry UsageUsed mainly in publishing fiction novels, short stories, and literary worksUsed mainly in publishing textbooks, memoirs, and professional or academic books

While both roles involve editing skills and work in publishing, Freelance Fiction Book Editors focus on storytelling, character development, and narrative flow, whereas Freelance Non-Fiction Book Editors emphasize accuracy, clarity, and factual integrity. Understanding these differences helps authors and publishers choose the right editor for their project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance fiction book editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Fiction Book Editor, you need a strong command of grammar, narrative structure, and genre conventions, often supported by a relevant degree or substantial editing experience. Familiarity with editing tools such as Microsoft Word (Track Changes), style guides (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style), and project management platforms is essential. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to provide constructive feedback help build trust and rapport with authors. These skills ensure manuscripts are polished, market-ready, and meet both industry standards and client expectations.
What cities are hiring for Freelance Fiction Book Editor jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Fiction Book Editor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Fiction Book Editor jobs? The most popular types of Fiction Book Editor jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Fiction Book Editor jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Fiction Book Editor jobs include:
Freelance Fiction Book Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Fiction Book Editor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,031 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Editor, Academic Books

Crossway

Wheaton, IL • On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Title: Book Department Editor
Reports to: Vice President of Editorial and Director of Editorial, Book Department
General Description of Responsibilities:
The academic book editor will serve Crossway's publishing ministry by copyediting book manuscripts and managing the editorial process for those book projects through the editing, typesetting, proofreading, and indexing stages. He or she will strive to ensure excellence of content, beauty of expression, and theological faithfulness. The editor will work under and closely with the vice president of Editorial and the director of Editorial, and will collaborate with the rest of the Book Department team (including Editorial and Acquisitions colleagues), the Production team, and other Crossway colleagues as needed.
Specific Responsibilities:
  • Copyediting eight to twelve books per calendar year for content, style, and doctrine, with a focus on books toward the academic end of the spectrum but also including some trade books
  • Managing book projects through the editing, typesetting, proofreading, and indexing phases, concluding with handoff to the Manufacturing Department
  • Interacting with typesetters to provide all that they need to do their jobs effectively
  • Engaging and reviewing the work of freelance proofreaders and indexers
  • Working through projects in an efficient, timely manner
  • Meeting regularly with supervisor and others to discuss project issues
  • Handling other editorial needs that arise

Position Requirements:
  • Undergraduate degree in English, Bible, theology, history, philosophy, or a closely related field
  • Master's or doctoral degree in historical theology, church history, systematic theology, biblical and theological studies, or Old or New Testament
  • Familiarity with biblical languages; familiarity with Latin also helpful
  • Demonstrated copyediting experience for a publishing house or in another professional context, including copyediting of multiple book-length academic manuscripts
  • A thorough knowledge of The Chicago Manual of Style (including but not limited to its citation style)
  • Attention to detail, ability to focus for long periods, ability to communicate clearly, and strong organizational and time-management skills
  • Adherence to a robust evangelical theology in the historic stream of the Reformation-that is, broadly Reformed in line with the doctrinal DNA of Crossway's publishing ministry-and willingness to affirm Crossway's Statement of Faith, Statement of Classic Reformation Orthodoxy, and statements on Human Sexuality and Complementarity

Publishing Ministry Commitment:
Commitment to the Crossway publishing ministry and vision, as summarized in the following statement of purpose: By God's grace: (a) to bring men, women, and children to Christ as their Lord and Savior; (b) to help individual Christians and the church grow in knowledge and understanding of the Bible and the Christian life; (c) to bear witness to God's Truth, Beauty, and Righteousness, and the Lordship of Christ in every area of life; and (d) to glorify our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in every way.
Personal Qualities:
A love for God's Word and His church. Committed to an evangelical, historic Reformation understanding of the Bible, the gospel, and Christian doctrine. A genuine faith in Jesus Christ as one's Lord and Savior, and active participation in a local church. Pleasing personal demeanor with a willing, servant's heart. Creative, energetic, organized, timely, excellence in execution.
Benefit Program:
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans for full time employees after 30 days of employment with employer contribution to costs
  • Three medical plan options available with monthly premium costs for a family from $125-$300
  • Life, long term, and short term disability insurance for full time employees paid by company
  • Additional voluntary life insurance offerings paid by employee
  • Paid vacation and illness days for full time employees (part time employees PTO accrual based on hours worked.)
  • 11 paid holiday for full time employees (part time employees holiday pay dependent on schedule)
  • Participation in retirement plan including 25% company match of up to $1,500 for full time and part time employees (temporary employees not eligible.)

Salary:
Salary range is $65,000 to $95,000. This range reflects the full scope of potential compensation for this role. Most candidates can expect to fall at the midpoint of the range, with placement determined by experience, skills, and demonstrated ability for the position. Salary also will be commensurate with current standards for comparable positions and responsibilities within publishing and other leading not-for-profit ministries.
Other:
  • This is a full-time position.
  • On-site work preferred, but remote work negotiable.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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