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Independent Contractor Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Editor

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$55K - $95K/yr

They must be able to work independently and as part of a small team. The editor should have ... Coordinate assignments and deadlines with external contractors. * Coordinate closely with the ...

Ability to work independently and with minimal guidance. * Ability to gauge the feasibility of ... It Is Written vendors, contractors, guests, and volunteers Working Conditions: * General working ...

The ProSidian Engagement Team Members work to provide General Support Services Contractor (GSSC ... Ability to work independently and perform multiple tasks with dynamic priorities * Well-developed ...

In a media landscape where print is often contracting, the magazine remains our flagship, supported ... Build repeatable frameworks that help junior staff grow and operate more independently Drive Multi ...

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How much do independent contractor editor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor 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.

What is an Independent Contractor Editor job?

An Independent Contractor Editor is a self-employed professional who edits content for clients on a contract basis rather than as a full-time employee. They may work on various types of content, including articles, books, academic papers, and marketing materials. Their responsibilities typically include proofreading, fact-checking, revising sentence structure, and ensuring consistency in style and tone. Since they are independent contractors, they manage their own schedules, negotiate rates, and often work with multiple clients.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Independent Contractor Editor?

Independent Contractor Editors usually spend their days reviewing and revising written materials for clarity, consistency, grammar, and style according to client-specific guidelines. They communicate directly with clients to clarify project details and expectations, and may juggle multiple assignments from various sources. The role often includes fact-checking, formatting, and providing constructive feedback to writers. Working independently, editors are responsible for managing their own schedules, meeting strict deadlines, and keeping detailed records of completed projects. This autonomy offers flexibility but also requires a high level of self-motivation and organizational skill.

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

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Editor, you need advanced editing and proofreading skills, a strong command of grammar and style guides, and typically a degree in English, journalism, or a related field. Familiarity with editing software (such as Microsoft Word with Track Changes, Google Docs, and style-checking tools like Grammarly) is important, and professional certifications (like those from the Editorial Freelancers Association) can be beneficial. Outstanding time management, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate clearly with clients make you stand out. These abilities ensure high-quality deliverables, efficient project completion, and positive client relationships in a remote, deadline-driven environment.

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What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Editor jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Editor job openings:
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Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Editor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 3% Full Time, 68% Part Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,031 per year, or $30.8 per hour.
Editor

$55K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

The Center for a New American Security (CNAS) is seeking an editor to help execute the Center's publications process. CNAS is a leading foreign policy and national security think tank that produces approximately 40 major analytic reports each year.
The editor, reporting to the editorial and publications director, will play a key role in coordinating the Center's publications and will work closely with the Publications and Communications teams, as well as the eight research programs. They must be able to work independently and as part of a small team. The editor should have impeccable attention to detail, an ability to manage multiple projects at once, and a strong background in editing. This is an overview of primary responsibilities. Other tasks may be required, and responsibilities may vary to fulfill the Center's needs.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Edit and copyedit products as assigned, including policy reports, press releases, email newsletters, commentaries, etc., for grammar, style, and layout.
  • Master the publications process to facilitate submissions.
  • Work with researchers to prepare their reports for publication at various stages in the publications process.
  • Support the editorial and publications director, including by processing invoices and contracts, updating the publications archive, and keeping team documents current, among other tasks.
  • Assist the editorial and publications director with deadline management and communication.
  • Coordinate assignments and deadlines with external contractors.
  • Coordinate closely with the Communications team to lay out and produce online products.
  • Serve as a resource on style, grammar, and the publications process for other staff members.
  • Review credits/sources for visual material, including photos and graphics.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant area of study.
  • 4+ years of editorial experience in print and/or online publications.
  • Exceptional copyediting and proofreading skills.
  • Strong organizational skills, initiative, and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a small team.
  • Demonstrated ability to handle multiple projects at once, balance competing deadlines, and shift priorities among projects.
  • Mastery of the Chicago Manual of Style.
  • Interest in contributing to cutting-edge research on U.S. national security policy.
  • Legal right to work in the United States.
  • Based in Washington, D.C. metro area (DC, MD, VA) or willing to relocate upon job offer. This position includes a mix of remote and in-person work, with a regular presence at our D.C. office expected. We're open to discussing the specific arrangement with strong candidates.

ABOUT CNAS
The Center for a New American Security develops bold, innovative, and bipartisan national security and defense policies that promote and protect American interests and values. Building on the deep expertise and broad experience of its staff and advisors, CNAS engages policymakers, experts, and the public with innovative fact-based research, ideas, and analysis to shape and elevate the national security debate. As an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit research organization, CNAS leads efforts to help inform and prepare the national security leaders of today and tomorrow. CNAS is located in Washington, D.C.
CNAS is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
CNAS offers a complete and competitive benefits package for employees which includes medical, dental, vision, life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, 403(b) retirement accounts, transportation subsidies, and an employee assistance program.