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Freelance Publishing Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

PreciseTarget

Managing Editor

Bethesda, MD · On-site

... and managing day-to-day publishing operations while building a high-performing team ... • Manage a freelance roster of 8-12 contributors • Partner with data and product teams to ...

National Academy of Sciences

Editor

Washington, DC · On-site

$73K - $92K/yr

May coordinate freelance activities in the unit, including finding and coordinating work among ... Advises staff and authors on editing and publishing options. Holds meetings to discuss current and ...

Leadership Connect

Content Manager

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$95K - $105K/yr

Reporting to the VP of Marketing, you decide what we publish, when, and why - translating brand ... freelancers) for added capacity and accountable for the output either way. Core Functions of the ...

Leadership Connect

Content Manager

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$95K - $105K/yr

Reporting to the VP of Marketing, you decide what we publish, when, and why -- translating brand ... freelancers) for added capacity and accountable for the output either way. Core Functions of the ...

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All JobsPublishing JobsFreelance Publishing JobsFreelance Publishing Jobs in Reston, VA

Freelance Publishing information

See Reston, VA salary details

$15

$49

$137

How much do freelance publishing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance publishing in Reston, VA is $49.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.24 and $64.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance publisher?

To thrive as a Freelance Publisher, you need strong editorial skills, knowledge of the publishing process, and experience in content management, often backed by a degree in English, journalism, or communications. Familiarity with publishing software like Adobe InDesign, content management systems (CMS), and digital marketing tools is typically required. Excellent time management, networking, and communication skills help freelancers attract clients and manage multiple projects efficiently. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure high-quality outputs, meet client deadlines, and sustain a successful independent publishing business.

What are some common challenges freelance publishing professionals face when managing multiple clients and projects?

Freelance publishing professionals often juggle projects for different clients with varying deadlines, editorial standards, and communication styles. This can make time management and organization particularly challenging, as freelancers must prioritize tasks, set clear expectations, and maintain consistent quality across all assignments. Additionally, freelancers are responsible for their own client acquisition, contract negotiation, and invoicing, which requires strong business skills alongside editorial expertise. Successful freelancers typically use project management tools and clear communication to navigate these challenges and deliver projects on time.

What is freelance publishing?

Freelance publishing refers to the practice of independent professionals offering publishing-related services such as editing, proofreading, design, or content creation to clients on a contract basis, rather than being employed by a single publishing house. Freelancers in this field can work with authors, publishers, or businesses on various projects, ranging from books and eBooks to magazines and online content. This career offers flexibility and the opportunity to work with a wide range of clients and genres, but also requires strong self-management and marketing skills.

What is the difference between Freelance Publishing vs Freelance Editing?

AspectFreelance PublishingFreelance Editing
CredentialsExperience in publishing, writing, or mediaStrong editing, grammar, and language skills
Work EnvironmentRemote or freelance, project-basedRemote or freelance, project-based
Industry UsagePublishing houses, media companies, self-publishingAuthors, publishers, media outlets
Common Search IntentPublishing process, book or article productionContent refinement, proofreading, editing

Freelance Publishing involves managing the entire process of producing and distributing content, often working with publishers or self-publishing authors. Freelance Editing focuses on refining and improving existing content through proofreading and editing. Both roles are flexible, remote, and require strong communication skills, but they differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Publishing jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Publishing jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Publishing jobs in Reston, VA? For Freelance Publishing jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Publishing jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Publishing jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Freelance Publishing jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Freelance Publishing job openings:
Freelance Publishing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Publishing job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,235 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

Editor, Publishing Services

NAFSA Association of International Educators

Washington, DC • On-site

$65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

The Editor leads the development, review, and release of assigned print and digital publishing projects and has significant copy editing and proofreading responsibilities. This role collaborates with authors and NAFSA staff to edit and produce publications and content, while also providing editorial and writing support to NAFSA departments. The Editor supports the Senior Director in the management of certain business operations for the publishing services department, including customer service and the annual conference bookstore. This position also contributes to the editorial and production aspects of International Educator magazine, NAFSA.news e-newsletter, and the NAFSA blog.
Major Functions and Responsibilities
Provide project management and editorial support for books, eBooks, digital downloads, booklets, posters, and other print and digital resources (40%)
  • Serves as editorial lead and project manager for projects as assigned, including content development, stakeholder management, and production.
  • Develops publication schedules, editorial calendars, and cost estimates for freelancers and vendors to ensure projects stay on deadline and on budget.
  • Works with the Associate Director, Publishing Services, to draft editorial agreements for projects for all volunteer or paid contributors and/or editors and maintains accurate files on these project agreements.
  • Assists the department in creating and updating NAFSA Publication Guidelines for different projects.
  • Works with Marketing and Publications colleagues to market and promote new and existing publications.

Provide editorial and production support for NAFSA digital publications and various member and external-facing communications across the organization, including conference materials• (40%)
  • Provides editing, copyediting, and proofreading for communications and projects across the organization.
  • Manages the NAFSA Style Guide and updates it on a regular basis to comply with the Chicago Manual of Style.
  • Reviews, edits, and contributes as needed to the weekly NAFSA.news email newsletter; serves as production backup.
  • Serves as editorial project manager for publication projects and messaging from various NAFSA departments, providing substantive editing, copyediting, and proofreading.
  • Assist with copy editing, website production, and other duties as assigned for International Educator magazine and the NAFSA blog.

Serve as main customer support contact for Publications team; support business practices for production and marketing of publications (10%)
  • Manages the Publications inbox, responds to customer service emails and calls, and works with other NAFSA colleagues to troubleshoot customer inquiries.
  • Keeps product pages accurate and updated in the NAFSA Shop on the NAFSA website and iMIS.
  • Supports product fulfillment operations.
  • Collaborates with Marketing and Knowledge Development colleagues to coordinate the release of these products with innovation.

Assist at the NAFSA Bookstore during the annual conference (5%)
  • Coordinates with outside publishers to purchase and receive material for the bookstore.
  • Manages inventory before, during, and after the conference, including shipments and deliveries. Helps implement point of sale system and manage inventory in system.
  • Provides staff support during the planning, implementation, and follow-up processes. Provides customer service to conference attendees and offers guidance in the selection of appropriate publication resources.

Perform other duties as assigned by the Director, Publishing Services, to support fulfillment of NAFSA's strategic objectives and goals (5%)
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in journalism, English, communications, or other relevant field; or commensurate experience.
  • A minimum of three years of project management responsibility in a publications/communications department or similar environment.
  • Strong editorial skills (writing, editing, copy editing, proofreading), as well as an eye for graphic design.
  • Excellent organizational and project management skills; ability to track multiple, competing projects.
  • A firm grasp of style rules, preferably the Chicago Manual of Style, in addition to experience using an in-house style guide.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite.
  • Familiarity with Adobe Acrobat and InDesign, as well as Drupal or other content management systems.
  • Commitment and enthusiasm for NAFSA's mission.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience working in publishing.
  • Experience using the Chicago Manual of Style.
  • Previous experience working with membership associations, nonprofit organizations, contributors, or customers.
  • Work experience in higher education.
  • Exposure to or experience in international education or related field.

Office Environment
The workday is generally 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The week after Memorial Day to Labor Day, it is 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday.
Travel is required occasionally related to job responsibilities, especially for the annual conference or other leadership meetings. Participation in the NAFSA annual conference the week of Memorial Day, including the holiday itself, is a job requirement. The annual conference is held in varying cities.
Tasks are performed in a typical office environment, involving sitting for extended periods of time. Sitting, standing, bending, and lifting 10lbs or less will occur intermittently throughout the workday. Position involves constant use of computer keyboard and monitor, with intermittent use of headset and microphone.
Total Compensation, Benefits
The target salary for this full-time, 35-hour per week Editor position is $65,000. Total compensation for employment at NAFSA entails a competitive employee benefits package including:
  • Competitively priced medical and dental insurance plans with CareFirst
  • 403(b) retirement plan with eligibility for up to 7% employer contribution
  • Generous paid vacation, sick, personal, parental, and compassionate leave plans
  • Paid days on and around federal holidays
  • Fully paid group life and disability insurance coverage
  • Health and dependent care flexible spending account plans
  • Pre-tax parking and transportation plans
  • Free onsite fitness center and secure bicycle parking

About NAFSA: Association of International Educators
NAFSA: Association of International Educators is an organization of people dedicated to building a global community and fostering a more peaceful world through advancing international higher education. With approximately 10,000 members, NAFSA is the world's largest professional development and advocacy organization committed to international learning and creating a more globally engaged, welcoming, and educated United States.
NAFSA believes that international education advances learning and scholarship, fosters understanding and respect among people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives, is essential for developing globally competent individuals, and builds leadership for the global community. We believe that international education lies at the core of an interconnected world characterized by peace, security, and well-being for all.
NAFSA is a workplace that not only appreciates diversity but believes it is our strength, and we strive to create an inclusive culture for all our team members. NAFSA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Learn more about NAFSA at www.nafsa.org .
Key Words: Editor
Salary Description
The target salary for this position is $65,000.

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