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Magazine Editor Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

ISTE+ASCD

Sr. Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Magazine and News Development, Editing, and Support * Research critical topics, emerging teaching and learning practices, prospective authors, and content ...

ISTE+ASCD

Sr. Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Magazine and News Development, Editing, and Support * Research critical topics, emerging teaching and learning practices, prospective authors, and content ...

The Atlantic Monthly Group

Senior Editor

Washington, DC · On-site

$105K - $200K/yr

The editor, who can specialize in areas of politics, policy, or national security, will be ... A magazine sensibility, with superlative narrative skills and a passion for ideas-based journalism.

The Atlantic

Senior Editor

Washington, DC

$105K - $200K/yr

The editor, who can specialize in areas of politics, policy, or national security, will be ... A magazine sensibility, with superlative narrative skills and a passion for ideas-based journalism.

Condé Nast

Senior Copy Editor

Adelphi, MD · Hybrid

The Role House & Garden is looking for a Senior Copy Editor to play a key role in the running of its subs desk across the magazine and its supplements. Reporting to the Chief Sub Editor, this is an ...

The Atlantic

Senior Editor

Washington, DC

$105K - $125K/yr

We are seeking an experienced, nimble, driven editor to join our newsletters team. The ideal ... A magazine sensibility, with a passion for ideas-based journalism * An eagerness to collaborate and ...

The Atlantic Monthly Group

Senior Editor

Washington, DC · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

We are seeking an experienced, nimble, driven editor to join our newsletters team. The ideal ... A magazine sensibility, with a passion for ideas-based journalism * An eagerness to collaborate and ...

Condé Nast

Chief Sub-Editor

Adelphi, MD · Hybrid

Leading the day-to-day running of the subs desk across the magazine and its internal and external ... Sub-editing, proofreading and fact-checking all editorial content with exceptional accuracy and ...

AAAS

Senior Editor

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$95K - $100K/yr

The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and Science magazine have an exciting opportunity for a full time Senior Editor for the Commentary section. The editor will handle ...

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Magazine Editor information

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How much do magazine editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for magazine editor in Washington is $24.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.18 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, senior roles such as executive producers, media directors, and high-level editors can earn $150,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, strong industry networks, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require advanced skills, industry knowledge, and sometimes specialized certifications or advanced degrees.

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 qualifications do you need to be a magazine editor?

A magazine editor typically needs a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Relevant experience in writing, editing, or publishing, along with strong communication and organizational skills, are also important for the role.

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.

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, and the size of the publication, and editors often need strong writing, editing, and management skills.

How do you become an editor for a magazine?

To become a magazine editor, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field, along with experience in writing, editing, or publishing. Developing strong editing skills, knowledge of industry tools like content management systems, and building a portfolio of work can help advance to an editorial role.
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Magazine Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Magazine Editor job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,404 per year, or $24.7 per hour.
Associate Editor, Free Society Magazine

Associate Editor, Free Society Magazine

Cato Institute

Washington, DC • Hybrid

$45K - $70K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description

The Cato Institute seeks qualified candidates for the Associate Editor, Free Society Magazine position. Free Society is the Cato Institute's flagship magazine that explores the ideas and principles that make a free, open, and prosperous society possible. We publish longform essays, deeply reported features, thought-provoking interviews, and commentary by both leading classical liberal thinkers and rising voices. Each issue combines intellectual depth with sharp design and compelling storytelling to tackle the most urgent debates in economics, politics, culture, and philosophy.


As part of Cato's broader communications strategy, Free Society plays a central role in widening the audience for libertarian ideas and reaching people who may be encountering these principles for the first time. It is a growing publication with ambitious goals, and we are looking for someone who wants to help shape its future.


The Associate Editor will be a core member of a dynamic editorial team that is deeply integrated into Cato's mission and communications strategy. Working closely with the Managing Editor and Editor in Chief, you will support every stage of the editorial and production process for both print and digital editions. This includes pitching and developing story ideas, commissioning writers, editing drafts, shaping the magazine's narrative arc each quarter, coordinating layout and design, and helping drive the magazine's promotional efforts.


This role is ideal for someone who loves ideas, believes in Cato's mission, and wants to help bring the timeless principles of libertarianism to the widest possible audience. The Associate Editor will have substantial room for growth, with opportunities to take on greater ownership of story development, expand the magazine's contributor network, and shape long-term editorial strategy.


This is a hybrid position in Washington, DC. headquarters.


The projected salary range for this role is $45,000 - $70,000 per year. Compensation is based on the successful candidate's educational background, experience, and skills


About Cato


The Cato Institute is a public policy research organization - a think tank - dedicated to the principles of individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace. Its scholars and analysts conduct independent, nonpartisan research on a wide range of policy issues.


Founded in 1977, Cato owes its name to Cato's Letters, a series of essays published in 18th-century England that presented a vision of a society free from excessive government power. Those essays inspired the architects of the American Revolution. And the simple, timeless principles of that revolution - individual liberty, limited government, and free markets - turn out to be even more powerful in today's world of global markets and unprecedented access to information than Jefferson or Madison could have imagined. Social and economic freedom is not just the best policy for a free people; it is the indispensable framework for the future.


Cato Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


Key Responsibilities

  • Assist in developing and refining story ideas, coordinating pitches, assigning articles, and editing drafts
  • Manage editorial calendars, track drafts and revisions, and maintain efficient production workflows
  • Collaborate closely with Cato's design, marketing, and digital teams on layout, visuals, promotion, and distribution
  • Help drive the magazine's outreach strategy-amplifying stories, engaging new audiences, and strengthening reader relationships
  • Contribute to long-term editorial planning and the evolution of the magazine as it grows

Requirements

 Education and Experience

  • 3+ years of professional experience in journalism, editing, or publishing
  • A Bachelor's degree preferred
  • A passion for classical liberal or libertarian ideas
  • Experience with digital marketing or audience-growth strategies
  • Experience working with CRM tools such as Salesforce is preferred
  • Experience in newsrooms or similar fast-paced media environments is preferred

Skills

  • Exceptional writing, editing, and organizational skills
  • Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • Curiosity, initiative, and a desire to grow within the role and the organization
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills; comfortable interacting with individuals of various professional backgrounds and experience levels
  • Composed and organized with a strong attention to detail, quality, and accuracy

Benefits

All Cato employees are provided with:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Generous vacation and sick days
  • Paid parental leave
  • Employer-provided life and disability insurance
  • 401(k) employer match
  • Transit/ Parking benefits
  • Pet discount plan


Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. This position does not offer visa sponsorship

Apply