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Magazine Editor Contract Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Magazine Editor Contract information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$36.6K

$66K

$110.2K

How much do magazine editor contract jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for magazine editor contract in Chicago, IL is $65,962.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $74,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Magazine Editor (Contract), and why are they important?

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 Editors working on a contract basis, 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 does a Magazine Editor Contract involve?

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Magazine Editor jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Magazine Editor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Magazine Editor Contract jobs in Chicago, IL? For Magazine Editor Contract jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Magazine Editor Contract jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Magazine Editor Contract jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Production Associate Intern/Volunteer

Production Associate Intern/Volunteer

The Aparecio Foundation, NFP

Chicago, IL

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Felix is a luxury lifestyle magazine currently serving Chicago, Los Angeles and New York. The pages of this glossy publication cover the latest trends in fashion, fine dining, nightlife, arts and culture. Featuring ultra luxe fashion profiles, restaurants, and the season's must-have accessories from the world's top writers and stylists.

Luxe Media, LLC and Felix Magazine are the marketing names of The Aparecio Foundation, NFP ("TAF"). Luxe Media, LLC. is committed to developing a fun and productive work culture that is conducive to positive results! 
We offer a uniquely open environment that demands initiative and imagination from every single team member that are heard, tested, and genuinely empowered to lead by example and create lasting impacts on our organization, its programs, and the community.  This is an unpaid internship/volunteer opportunity.  

Job Description

As a Production assistant you will have a variety of responsibilities throughout the semester. Our  team is looking for bright and innovative intern .
Primary responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Develop and manage production timelines and budgets for creative projects; ongoing evaluation of

adherence to budgeted time and cost constraints for sold ad programs, which could include-
Serve as liaison between Creative Communications and sales, marketing, edit, ad ops, and external vendors

  • Assist with daily staff meetings to coordinate creative-department projects and manage and organize

workflow

  • Producer Requirements


Manage all aspects of photo and video production including: Castings (models and real people)
Sourcing new hair/makeup/wardrobe/set design talent
Maintaining a diverse pool of photography and videography talent
Running pre-production meetings internally and with clients
Coordinating with PR/Management teams of celebrities
Organize shot lists and shoot schedules to ensure shoots ended on time and under budget
Scout studios, locations, and local production teams in NYC, LA, Chicago.
Handle all aspects of photo shoot production, including sourcing locations, permitting, booking stylist/hair/makeup, executing contracts, creating call sheets, managing process on set, etc.
Oversee the day-to-day workflow of Photo Department to ensure deadlines are being met. Assign and
divide web research assignments and review before submitting to editors.

Qualifications

A passion for women's economic opportunities
Must be a full or part-time practicing professional
Have relevant consumer magazine and online experience
Have extensive photo research and photo production experience and a strong visual and creative sensibility
Be enthusiastic and team oriented, but also able to work independently
Have excellent communication and organizational skills
Work effectively on several projects simultaneously and under tight deadlines
Must be able to commit to 2-3 days a week for 3 months
Comfortable with ambiguity and able to work autonomously
Experience working in a studio setting
Flexible; ability to adapt to changing priorities and multiple tasks
Ability, and willingness, to adhere to verbal direction and creative critique
Proficiency in collaboration and/or problem-solving during photo shoots
Ability to take initiative and must have the confidence to learn in a "live" environment.
Must be reliable with excellent organizational skills and very strong attention to detail.
Ability to work well with a team
Integrity, honesty, openness and a willingness to operate as a team player

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.