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Literary Editor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

VIZ Media

Editor

San Francisco, CA

$73K - $78K/yr

A Bachelor's Degree in English, Journalism, Creative Writing, Comparative Literature ... The Editor must be local to the San Francisco Bay Area. VIZ Media operates on a hybrid schedule ...

BUCHWALD

Video/Audio Editor

Los Angeles, CA

... literary, feature film packaging, personal appearance, syndication (radio, television and digital ... This position will focus on editing client video and audio content, including reels, scenes, self ...

BUCHWALD

Video/Audio Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

... literary, feature film packaging, personal appearance, syndication (radio, television and digital ... Buchwald is looking to hire a creative, entry-level Video/Audio Editor in the Los Angeles office ...

Nashville Public Radio

Editor

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$73 - $78/hr

A Bachelor's Degree in English, Journalism, Creative Writing, Comparative Literature ... The Editor must be local to the San Francisco Bay Area. VIZ Media operates on a hybrid schedule ...

New

Chronicle Books

ASSISTANT EDITOR

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$27.41 - $31.50/hr

... and literary agents. Researching, evaluating and responding to proposals while tracking licensor approvals will also be part of this position. The Assistant Editor will present proposals to ...

Patagonia

Category Editor, Climb

Ventura, CA · On-site +1

$94K - $108K/yr

Category Editor, Climb Team: Creative Studio - Copy Edit Scope: Individual Contributor, P3 Years of ... Bachelor's degree in Literary Arts, Communications, Marketing, or related field (or equivalent ...

New

Alstem, Llc

Scientist - Stem Cell Biology

Richmond, CA · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

... editing, and more. This is a hands‑on lab‑based role at the forefront of iPS cells, gene ... To maintain an awareness of current developments in the literature * To identify and solve problems ...

Intuitive

Senior Clinical Scientist

Sunnyvale, CA

Critically appraise scientific literature and write clinical summaries for products and surgical procedures. * Conduct proofreading, editing, document formatting, review comment integration and ...

Intuitive

Senior Clinical Scientist

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site +1

Critically appraise scientific literature and write clinical summaries for products and surgical procedures. * Conduct proofreading, editing, document formatting, review comment integration and ...

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Literary Editor information

See California salary details

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How much do literary editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for literary editor in California is $32.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.87 and $39.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a literary editor do?

A Literary Editor reviews, revises, and refines written content to improve clarity, coherence, and style. They work with authors to enhance storytelling, correct grammatical errors, and ensure consistency in tone and structure. Literary Editors may also provide feedback on plot development, character arcs, and overall narrative flow. Their goal is to help create polished, compelling works that align with the author’s vision while meeting publishing standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a literary editor?

To thrive as a Literary Editor, you need strong language proficiency, a deep understanding of literary techniques, and a background in English, literature, or a related field. Familiarity with editing software such as Adobe InCopy, Microsoft Word Track Changes, and citation management tools is often required, along with experience using style guides like the Chicago Manual of Style. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to give constructive feedback are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the effective refinement of manuscripts and foster productive collaboration with authors and publishing teams.

What are the common challenges faced by literary editors in their daily work?

Literary Editors often face the challenge of balancing an author's creative vision with the commercial needs and standards of publishers. Navigating tight deadlines, providing sensitive yet honest feedback, and managing multiple projects simultaneously are common aspects of the role. Additionally, keeping up with changes in literary trends and publication standards can require continuous learning. However, overcoming these challenges offers the rewarding opportunity to shape compelling manuscripts and help authors refine their voice and storytelling.

How do you become a literary editor?

To become a literary editor, typically one needs a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field, along with strong editing, writing, and communication skills. Gaining experience through internships, freelance editing, or working in publishing helps build a portfolio and industry knowledge. Proficiency with editing tools and a good understanding of literary trends are also valuable for advancing in this role.

How much money do literary editors make?

Literary editors typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, with experienced editors in larger publishing houses earning over $80,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the publisher, and many editors work full-time in office environments requiring strong editing and communication skills.

What is the job of a literary editor?

A literary editor reviews and revises manuscripts to improve clarity, coherence, and style, ensuring the work meets publishing standards. They work closely with authors, providing feedback and editing for grammar, structure, and tone, often using editing software and adhering to deadlines.

What are the most commonly searched types of Literary Editor jobs in California?

The most popular types of Literary Editor jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Literary Editor jobs in California?

For Literary Editor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Literary Editor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Literary Editor jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Literary Editor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Literary Editor job openings:

Literary Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Literary Editor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,386 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Editor

VIZ Media

San Francisco, CA

$73K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Manage all editorial duties involved in the production process for print and digital publications, including editing manuscripts, proofreading proofs, and reviewing digital editions.

  • Oversee freelance translators, rewriters, and letterers for the production of graphic novels, serializations, and trade books.

  • Collaborate with departments such as Licensing, Design, Production, and Marketing to ensure quality, consistency, and timely delivery of publications.

Job description

Job Summary

VIZ Media is looking to add two Editors to our publishing department - come join a team of dedicated storytellers and artists and help bring your favorite manga to the English-speaking market! As an Editor at VIZ Media, you'll have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of print and digital publications, collaborate with talented creative colleagues, and even propose series for acquisition. 

What you'll do:

  • Manage all editorial duties involved in the graphic novel, simultaneous serializations, and trade book production process for both print and digital formats, including: editing manuscripts, proofreading page and cover proofs, checking bluelines, and reviewing digital editions to ensure quality and consistency
  • Oversee freelance translators, rewriters, and letterers for the production of graphic novels, simultaneous serializations, and trade books
  • Work with our Publishing Licensing department to address licensor requirements and concerns and to secure approval for publication projects
  • Collaborate with in-house Designers and freelance designers on the timely and high-quality creation of cover and miscellaneous text layout for graphic novels and trade books
  • Write cover text, catalog copy, and other related marketing and sales materials
  • Check promotional copy in items such as sell sheets, samplers, and other marketing materials to make sure they are consistent with the facts and spirit of the title
  • Work with Production staff to determine production specifications and with senior Publishing staff to conduct cost analysis and stay within the title budget
  • Research and propose potential publishing acquisitions
  • Represent and advocate titles placed under your responsibility
  • Provide supporting editorial and informational services for other departments, including Digital Publishing, Sales, Marketing, and Animation

The ideal candidate has:

  • 2-4 years of experience in delivering high quality editorial services related to book publication, simultaneous serialization, graphic novels, video games and/or trade books
  • Knowledge about book publishing, comics, manga, or anime
  • Experience writing and editing high-quality copy and maintaining continuity in projects
  • The ability to balance creative judgements with business requirements
  • Strong skill with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Excellent project and deadline management skills
  • A Bachelor's Degree in English, Journalism, Creative Writing, Comparative Literature, Communications, or related field or equivalent experience

Additional Preferred Experience:

  • Prior experience in the publishing industry
  • Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (particularly InDesign and Photoshop)
  • Working knowledge of the Japanese language (a plus, not a must)

Work Location, Schedule, and Compensation

Location: The Editor must be local to the San Francisco Bay Area. VIZ Media operates on a hybrid schedule, and the Editor should expect to work onsite at our Downtown San Francisco office 1-2 times per week. There may be some required travel for this position to attend conventions or trade shows.

Schedule: This is a Regular Full-Time position with flexibility in working hours outside of our core hours of 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. The Editor may need to work late or on weekends or be on call for occasional urgent issues. 

Compensation: $73,000 - $78,000 annually, depending on experience, with additional variable compensation

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