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Manuscript Editing Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Senior Production Editor

Naperville, IL · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

Lead the editorial production of complex and high-profile publishing projects from manuscript ... Mentor Production Editors by sharing best practices, providing guidance, and supporting onboarding ...

Senior Production Editor

Naperville, IL · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

Lead the editorial production of complex and high-profile publishing projects from manuscript ... Mentor Production Editors by sharing best practices, providing guidance, and supporting onboarding ...

As a Production Editor, you'll manage a diverse list of projects through every stage of editorial ... A strong understanding of the publishing production process from manuscript through final print and ...

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Manuscript Editing information

What does a manuscript editor do?

A Manuscript Editor reviews and refines written content to ensure clarity, coherence, and consistency. They correct grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors while also improving sentence structure and style. Depending on the editing level, they may provide substantive feedback on content, organization, and argument strength. Editors work with authors, publishers, or academic institutions to prepare manuscripts for publication. Their goal is to enhance readability while maintaining the author's voice and intent.

What are some typical challenges faced by manuscript editors, and how can they be overcome?

Manuscript editors often face challenges such as tight deadlines, varying writing styles from different authors, and the need to maintain accuracy while respecting the author’s voice. Balancing thorough editing with efficiency requires strong organizational skills and careful prioritization. To overcome these challenges, successful editors communicate clearly with authors, stay updated on the latest style guidelines, and utilize productivity tools to streamline their workflow. Collaboration with other editors and regular feedback sessions can also help improve consistency and address any recurring issues. Adapting to different subject matter and being open to constructive feedback further supports professional growth in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in manuscript editing, and why are they important?

To thrive in Manuscript Editing, you need strong language proficiency, meticulous attention to detail, and a solid background in grammar and style guidelines, often supported by a degree in English, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with editing tools like Microsoft Word Track Changes, Google Docs, and style manuals such as APA or Chicago is important, and professional certifications (e.g., from the EFA or ACES) can be advantageous. Exceptional communication, time management, and adaptability are soft skills that help editors manage diverse manuscripts and collaborate with authors and publishing teams. These skills are essential for ensuring high-quality, polished documents that meet publication standards and deadlines.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manuscript Editing jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Manuscript Editing jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Manuscript Editing job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution.

$40 - $45/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

Position Summary

A Copy Editor is responsible for copy editing student dissertations to ensure that documents adhere to standard grammar and punctuation rules and the formatting requirements developed by both The Chicago School and The American Psychological Association Publication Manual.

Principle Duties

Dissertation Copy Editing
Accurately read student dissertations for logic and consistency promptly.
Identify and correct grammar, spelling, syntax, format, style, and punctuation errors.
Provide work samples that will assist students with formatting and style.
Provide students with feedback about APA style and the requirements of The Chicago School.
Assist students with formatting margins, pagination, citations, layout, tables, figures, and appendices so that they adhere to all dissertation guidelines established by The Chicago School.
Ensure that all references are correctly formatted and that they have been correctly and consistently cited in the dissertation.
Confer with students on what tasks they must perform to complete their dissertations.
Answer student questions about copy editing, referencing and citations, formatting, and completing dissertation copy editing promptly.
Assist students with printing a high-quality, ready-to-bind dissertation.
Maintain accurate and complete student drafts, process, and progress records.


Other
Retain all copies of student drafts, records, and correspondence until The Chicago School has approved the student's dissertation.
Maintain accurate and complete billing records.
Respond to emails within 24 hours.
Communicate as needed with the Manuscript Preparation Office Manager regarding student progress.
Maintain strict confidentiality regarding student names and results.
Uphold the highest standards of collegial and professional conduct with all The Chicago School community members.


Position Qualifications

A Master's degree in English or a similar field with experience teaching writing and/or editing (or the equivalent preparation) is preferred. Individuals with a BA and relevant experience are also encouraged to apply. Applicants must have a thorough knowledge of English grammar and spelling and a working familiarity with the APA writing style.

Excellent organizational, detail-oriented, and communication skills are required. Applicants must also be able to work independently by email, phone, and video conference.

Excellent computer skills, including MS Word, Excel, email, and video conferencing proficiency, are required.

The Chicago School has received national recognition for its institutional commitment to diversity and intercultural education. Ideal candidates will demonstrate an appreciation, enthusiasm, and commitment to diversity in all endeavors. Applicants from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.

Compensation & Benefits

This opportunity is budgeted at $$40-$45 base compensation. Additional compensation factors may impact total compensation. To learn more about our competitive benefits and additional rewards, including generous paid time-off, medical and dental insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, retirement plan with employer contribution, multiple flexible spending accounts, tuition reimbursement, click the link below.

https://www.thechicagoschool.edu/career-opportunities/

The Chicago School is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Please note: For the protection of faculty, staff, students, and all who enter our facilities, The Chicago School strongly recommends that all employees are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 per CDC guidance.