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Magazine Editor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Publications Specialist 2

Mclean, VA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

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 ...

Edit all laid-out stories on PDFs. * Assist as needed in the editing and updating of Zoobooks and Ranger Rick Dinosaurs magazines. * Work closely with the photo editor and designers in developing ...

Technical Writer-Editor II

Mclean, VA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Research and write original content for magazines, newsletters, user manuals, and research ... Substantive Editing amp; Quality Assurance: Provide comprehensive editorial support across all ...

The Technical Writer-Editor works with engineers, developers, and researchers to shape magazine features, newsletters, technical reports, user manuals, and system documentation. You'll manage each ...

Sr Digital Producer

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$120K - $147K/yr

The position will work closely with the RE (Rural Electric) Magazine Editor and Senior Manager of Editorial to optimize content for assigned NRECA digital properties and to evaluate and guide the ...

... magazine features, newsletters, fact sheets, and technical reports. Interview subject matter experts and attend briefings to gather accurate technical information. Perform substantive editing and ...

ABOUT THE ROLE Red Carrot is seeking Technical Writer-Editors to research, draft, and edit a wide range of materials for the customer's research and technology program, including magazine features ...

ABOUT THE ROLE Red Carrot is seeking Technical Writer-Editors to research, draft, and edit a wide range of materials for the customer's research and technology program, including magazine features ...

... magazines, etc. for tax and other monetary related issues as required or assigned. * Proofreads and performs light copy editing for consistency, grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Assists with ...

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Magazine Editor information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$22

How much do magazine editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for magazine editor in Virginia is $21.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.06 and $22.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much is a magazine editor paid?

The average salary for a magazine editor in the United States ranges from $45,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the publication's size. Senior editors or those working for major magazines can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What does a magazine editor do?

A magazine editor is responsible for overseeing the content, style, and layout of a magazine. They plan editorial calendars, assign articles to writers, review submissions, and edit copy to ensure quality and consistency. Editors also collaborate with designers, photographers, and other staff to produce engaging issues that meet the publication's standards and audience interests. Additionally, they may manage budgets, coordinate with advertisers, and stay updated on industry trends to keep the magazine relevant and competitive.

What is the difference between Magazine Editor vs Content Writer?

AspectMagazine EditorContent Writer
CredentialsDegree in journalism, communications, or related fieldDegree in English, journalism, or related field often preferred
Work EnvironmentEditorial offices, publishing houses, media companiesRemote, freelance, or in-house for various online platforms
Primary ResponsibilitiesOversees content, manages editorial calendar, edits articlesCreates written content, researches topics, drafts articles

While both roles involve writing and editing, a Magazine Editor manages the overall content strategy and editorial process for a publication, whereas a Content Writer focuses on producing individual pieces of content. The Magazine Editor typically has more responsibilities related to content curation and team coordination, making their role more managerial within the editorial environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a magazine editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Magazine Editor, you need strong writing, editing, and content curation skills, usually supported by a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with publishing software like Adobe InDesign, content management systems (CMS), and style guides such as AP or Chicago Manual of Style is essential. Excellent communication, leadership, and time management abilities help coordinate contributors and manage deadlines effectively. These skills ensure high-quality, engaging publications that meet editorial standards and resonate with the target audience.

What does a magazine editor do?

Magazine editors include all the staff that help plan and edit content for a publication; the number of employees and levels of editors depend on the size of the publication. Entry-level editors proofread and perform first edits on submitted pieces. Senior editors may assign work to writers or oversee editorial staff. Primary operations fall under the managing editor, who keeps production moving forward and ensures pieces are completed on schedule. The editor-in-chief determines the look and voice of the publication, and has the final say over what stories or essays are covered and which writers end up on the pages. Someone in this top role may write pieces of their own, oversee all other editorial staff, and give each piece a final look before it moves to the layout phase.

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 digital media has increased competition, strong editing skills and adaptability to new tools like content management systems are valuable for employment in this field.

What are some common challenges magazine editors face when managing multiple contributors and deadlines?

Magazine Editors often juggle articles from numerous writers, photographers, and designers, making organization and clear communication essential. Balancing creative visions with editorial guidelines and strict publication deadlines can be demanding, especially when unforeseen delays occur. Successful editors use project management tools, maintain open channels with contributors, and prioritize flexibility to handle last-minute changes without compromising quality. Building strong relationships with contributors also helps streamline the editing process and fosters a collaborative work environment.

How much do magazine editors get paid?

Magazine editors typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, with experienced editors or those working for major publications earning over $100,000. Salaries vary based on location, experience, publication size, and whether the role is full-time or freelance.
What are the most commonly searched types of Magazine Editor jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Magazine Editor jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Magazine Editor jobs in Virginia? For Magazine Editor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Magazine Editor jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Magazine Editor jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Magazine Editor jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Magazine Editor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Magazine Editor jobs in VA? For Magazine Editor jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Magazine Editor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,813 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Publications Specialist II - Magazine Editor

Red Carrot

Mclean, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Publications Specialist II - Magazine Editor
Level: Senior | Work Location: Hybrid - McLean, VA
⚠ This position is contingent upon contract award.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Red Carrot is seeking a Publications Specialist II to manage the complete lifecycle and editorial excellence of the customer's quarterly research magazine, from initial content intake through final distribution.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Oversee the complete magazine production lifecycle, including schedules and article version tracking
  • Provide high-level editorial support, assisting with content development and promotional materials
  • Serve as primary liaison between writing/author teams and layout/design teams
  • Manage complex, multi-stakeholder review processes involving authors, technical reviewers, and legal counsel
  • Ensure all articles and the completed magazine adhere to the GPO Style Manual, Chicago Manual of Style, and Section 508 requirements
  • Confirm all necessary sign-offs and approvals are secured before public release
  • Manage administrative and formatting aspects of distribution to ensure professional final release
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Communications, English, Journalism, or a closely related field; Master's degree or equivalent professional certification highly desirable
  • 7-10 years of progressively responsible experience in editorial and publication management
  • Proven track record overseeing production of a periodical, preferably technical or specialty
  • Deep understanding of Section 508 compliance and Federal publishing standards
  • Ability to obtain a USDOT Personal Identity Verification (PIV) credential

Benefits at Red Carrot:
At Red Carrot, we empower you to be a leader. We attract and develop talent from all backgrounds because we believe there's strength in diversity, offering different perspectives and skills. Together, we can solve our client's biggest challenges. We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package.
  • Training and Development - Tuition reimbursement and professional trainings for eligible employees.
  • Healthcare - Top-tier medical, dental, vision, life insurance and long-term disability coverage.
  • 401(k) Plan - 401(k)-retirement and Roth plan with company matching and no vesting period.
  • Profit Sharing - Discretionary profit-sharing plan to all eligible employees after one year of employment.
  • Paid Time Off - Provides flexible work hours, paid time off, and 11 federal holidays.

About Us:
Red Carrot is an award-winning, woman-owned small business built for the complexity of federal government work. We partner with clients to advance their goals - powered by a team fueled by passion, backed by intelligence, and grounded in expertise.
From day one, we've applied industrial engineering principles and data analytics to solve complex problems with precision. Our approach is research-centric, data-informed, and audience-oriented - and it's how we deliver work that actually moves the needle.
We exist to strengthen the organizations and communities we serve through trusted, purposeful communication. That's not a tagline - it's the standard we hold ourselves to on every engagement.
Headquartered in Miami, Florida, with a strong and growing presence in Washington, D.C., our team works with clients across the country. Distance doesn't dilute our service. We build capacity where our clients need it, delivering Strategic Communications, Customer Experience, Management Consulting, and Human Capital Solutions that fit their mission - and their moment.
We're the partner organizations turn to when communication challenges are real, the stakes are high, and the work has to matter.