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Magazine Editor Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Ocean Bay LLC

Senior Technical Editor (5984)

Washington, DC · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

The Publications Specialist II - Magazine Editor is responsible for the comprehensive lifecycle management and editorial excellence of the agency's magazine. This senior-level role requires expertise ...

PCI Productions LLC

Publications Specialist 2

Mclean, VA · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

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 ...

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How much do magazine editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 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 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 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.

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.

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 specialization, and editors often need strong writing, editing, and management skills.

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 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. Strong writing, editing, and organizational skills are essential, along with experience in publishing or media, and proficiency with editing software. Some positions may also require knowledge of specific subject areas or industry standards.
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Magazine Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Magazine Editor job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,404 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Publications Specialist II - Magazine Editor

Patriot Enterprises LLC

Washington, DC

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Description:

  • The FHA Publications Specialist II - Magazine Editor is responsible for the comprehensive lifecycle management and editorial excellence of the agency's magazine
  • This senior-level role requires expertise in the logistical administration of a quarterly publication cycle and high-level editorial services; 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

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Lifecycle & Production Management: Oversee the complete magazine lifecycle, including establishing production schedules, managing the publication cycle, and systematically tracking article versions through a comprehensive approval chain
  • Editorial & Writing Support: 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
  • Stakeholder Liaison: Act 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
  • Compliance & Quality Control: Ensure all final articles and the complete magazine adhere to the Government Publication Office (GPO) Style Manual, Chicago Manual of Style, and Section 508 accessibility requirements; confirm all necessary sign-offs and approvals are secured before public release
  • Logistical Oversight: Manage the administrative aspects of distribution and formatting specifications to ensure the final product meets all organizational standards for professional release

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in Communications, English, Journalism, or a closely related field; a Master's degree or equivalent advanced professional certification is highly desirable

Experience:

  • A minimum of 7 to 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)
  • Expertise in project management for recurring publication cycles
  • 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

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