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Magazine Editor Contract Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TIME

Video Editor | Contract through 2026

New York, NY · Hybrid

$1.1K - $1.5K/wk

We are looking for a Video Editor who can collaborate with a producer or reporter and edit ... TIME's iconic magazine and digital platforms--that reach the largest and youngest audience in TIME ...

TIME

Video Editor | Contract through 2026

New York, NY · On-site

$1.1K - $1.5K/wk

We are looking for a Video Editor who can collaborate with a producer or reporter and edit ... TIME's iconic magazine and digital platforms-that reach the largest and youngest audience in TIME ...

Playboy Enterprises, Inc.

Deputy Editor

Miami Beach, FL · On-site

Print Magazine Editorial * Oversee the editorial content of the quarterly Playboy print magazine ... Manage freelance assignments, pitches, contracts, and budgets with organizational precision and ...

Playboy Enterprises, Inc.

Deputy Editor

Miami Beach, FL · On-site

Print Magazine Editorial * Oversee the editorial content of the quarterly Playboy print magazine ... Manage freelance assignments, pitches, contracts, and budgets with organizational precision and ...

Sparks Group

Senior Editor

College Park, MD · Remote

$30 - $35/hr

This is a fully remote, part-time (30 hours per week), contract opportunity that will run through ... magazine. * Experience with scientific and technical content preferred. * Exceptional writing ...

InforCapital

Real Estate Editor (Temporary)

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$100 - $104/hr

... York Magazine's pioneering site covering real estate, architecture, design, and urbanism, is looking for a temporary Real Estate Editor, for a two month contract. This person should be deeply ...

New

Vox Media Group

Real Estate Editor (Temporary)

New York, NY · On-site

$100K - $104K/yr

... York Magazine's pioneering site covering real estate, architecture, design, and urbanism, is looking for a temporary Real Estate Editor, for a two month contract. This person should be deeply ...

Life Time

Senior Editor-Fitness

Highland Park, IL · On-site

$107K/yr

... the magazine's features, regular departments, and other content areas, including digital. The ... Submits assignments and contract information to the managing editor and project manager * Manages ...

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Magazine Editor Contract information

See salary details

$35.5K

$64K

$107K

How much do magazine editor contract jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for magazine editor contract 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 does a magazine editor contract do?

A Magazine Editor Contract typically refers to a temporary or freelance agreement where an editor is hired to oversee the content and production of a magazine for a set period or project. Magazine editors in these roles manage writers, edit articles, plan the publication layout, and ensure that the magazine meets its editorial standards and deadlines. Contract editors may work remotely or on-site, and their responsibilities can vary depending on the publication’s needs. These contracts are common in the publishing industry when magazines require specialized expertise or need to cover for staff editors on leave.

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

To thrive as a Magazine Editor (Contract), you need strong editorial judgment, excellent writing and editing skills, and experience in content planning, typically supported by a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with content management systems (CMS), Adobe Creative Suite, and SEO best practices is often required. Outstanding organizational abilities, creativity, and effective communication are crucial for managing contributors and maintaining a consistent editorial voice. These skills ensure the production of high-quality content that meets publication standards and engages target audiences within tight deadlines.

What are some common challenges faced by magazine editor contracts, and how can they be managed?

Contract Magazine Editors often face tight deadlines, the need to quickly adapt to a publication's editorial voice, and remote collaboration with diverse contributors. Managing multiple projects simultaneously and ensuring consistent quality can be challenging, especially when onboarding to new teams or workflows. Building strong communication with staff writers, designers, and the publication's leadership helps streamline processes and clarify expectations, while using project management tools can keep assignments organized and on track.

What is the difference between Magazine Editor Contract vs Magazine Writer?

AspectMagazine Editor ContractMagazine Writer
CredentialsRelevant journalism or editing experience, possibly a degree in journalism or communicationsWriting samples, portfolio, possibly a degree in journalism, communications, or related field
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with editors, designers, and publishers; often in an office or remoteFocuses on producing articles; may work freelance or in-house, often independently
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by publishing companies, media outlets, and magazines for overseeing contentHired by magazines or freelance clients to create content

In summary, a Magazine Editor Contract involves overseeing and managing magazine content, requiring editing skills and coordination, while a Magazine Writer focuses on creating articles and stories, often working independently. Both roles are essential in magazine publishing but differ in responsibilities and scope.

Are magazine editors still in demand?

Magazine editors remain in demand as they play a key role in content creation, editing, and publication processes across print and digital platforms. While the industry has shifted toward digital media, editors with strong digital skills, adaptability, and experience with content management systems are especially sought after.

How much money do magazine editors make?

Magazine editors typically earn a median annual salary of around $63,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to over $100,000 depending on experience, location, and the publication's size. Senior editors and those working for major magazines tend to earn higher salaries, often supplemented by bonuses and benefits. Strong editing, communication skills, and familiarity with content management tools are important for success in this role.

How to get a job as a magazine editor?

To become a magazine editor, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field, along with strong writing, editing, and leadership skills. Relevant experience through internships or assistant editing roles is important, and proficiency with editing software and digital publishing tools can enhance prospects. Building a portfolio of published work and networking within the industry also help in securing a magazine editing position.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Magazine Editor jobs?

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Magazine Editor Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Magazine Editor Contract job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,031 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Publications Specialist II - Magazine Editor

Vistra Communications LLC

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description:

Vistra is seeking a Magazine Editor to be responsible for the comprehensive lifecycle management and editorial excellence of the agency’s magazine. The Editor ensures that the magazine is produced on time, follows rigorous quality standards, and effectively meets strategic communication objectives from initial content intake through final distribution.


This is an onsite position in either McLean, VA, or Washington, DC.


Key responsibilities include:

  • Oversee the complete magazine lifecycle, including establishing production schedules, managing the publication cycle, and systematically tracking article versions through a comprehensive approval chain.
  • Provide high-level editorial support, assisting with content development and the creation of promotional materials. Implement strict version control and quality assurance protocols throughout the editing and document production process
  • Serve as the primary liaison between writing/author teams and the layout/design teams
  • Manage complex review processes involving multiple stakeholders, including authors, technical reviewers, and legal counsel
  • Ensure all final articles and the complete magazine adhere to the GPO Style Manual, Chicago Manual of Style, and Section 508 accessibility requirements, and all necessary sign-offs and approvals are secured before public release
  • Manage the administrative aspects of distribution and formatting specifications to ensure the final product meets all organizational standards for professional release
  • Ensure that digital versions of the magazine are compliant with federal accessibility laws and standards (Section 508/WCAG)
Requirements:
  • Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or a closely related field
  • Master’s degree or equivalent advanced professional certification highly desirable
  • 7-10 years of progressively responsible experience in editorial and publication management
  • Proven track record of overseeing the production of a periodical, preferably a technical or specialty publication (e.g., transportation or research journal)
  • Demonstrated expertise in the logistical administration and project management of quarterly publication cycles and high-level editorial services
  • Advanced proficiency in substantive editing, copyediting, and proofreading
  • Deep understanding of Section 508 compliance and federal publishing standards
  • Ability to manage complex approval workflows and coordinate between technical and creative teams
  • Prior transportation experience a plus
  • Public Trust is required; Security Clearance is preferred.

About Vistra:  Vistra Communications, doing business as Vistra and Vistra Federal Solutions, is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) headquartered in Tampa, FL with an office in Alexandria, VA providing professional support serviced to Defense, Federal, and Civilian Agencies.  Approximately 25% of our “team member” employees work in the National Capital Region, providing communications, outreach, and organizational transformation services to our public sector customers.  Vistra provides medical, dental, and vision benefits, life and disability insurance, employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, Paid Time Off, Parental and Bereavement Leave, and Professional Development, among other benefits. 


US Citizenship Required: Due to the requirements of the federal contract that this position supports, U.S. citizenship is required. Citizenship will be confirmed via I-9/E-Verify at the start of employment.