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Manuscript Editor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... manuscript cases within the team's portal/tool * Coordinate w/Stakeholders - coordinate with ... Previous experience as an Editor and/or Associate Editor * Previous CADRE experience TS/SCI with ...

Manuscript Editor information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$31

$57

How much do manuscript editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for manuscript editor in Virginia is $31.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.20 and $39.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do manuscript editors make?

Manuscript editors typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the complexity of the projects they handle. Freelance editors may charge hourly rates ranging from $25 to $75 or more, based on their expertise and the scope of work.

Is there a high demand for book editors?

The demand for manuscript editors remains steady, especially as the publishing industry continues to produce new books across genres. Editors with strong language skills, familiarity with editing tools, and industry experience are sought after, though competition can vary based on location and specialization.

What is a Manuscript Editor job?

A Manuscript Editor is responsible for reviewing and refining written content before publication. They correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors, improve clarity and coherence, and ensure adherence to style guidelines. Manuscript Editors work with authors, publishers, or academic institutions to enhance the quality of books, articles, or research papers. Their role may also involve fact-checking and formatting for consistency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Manuscript Editor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Manuscript Editor, you need strong command of grammar, punctuation, and style, usually backed by a degree in English, journalism, or a related field. Familiarity with editorial management systems, style guides like APA or Chicago, and track changes in word processing software is critical. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to provide constructive feedback are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure manuscripts meet publication standards, maintain consistency, and facilitate smooth collaboration with authors and other editors.

Does JK Rowling use an editor?

As a successful author and manuscript editor, JK Rowling works with professional editors to refine her manuscripts before publication. Editors play a crucial role in the publishing process, helping authors improve clarity, structure, and consistency. Rowling's collaboration with editors is typical for high-profile authors to ensure quality and market readiness.

What does a typical workday look like for a Manuscript Editor?

A typical day for a Manuscript Editor involves reviewing and correcting manuscripts for grammar, clarity, and adherence to specific style guidelines, often within tight deadlines. Editors frequently interact with authors to clarify content, request revisions, and provide feedback. They may also coordinate with other editorial staff or production teams to ensure timely publication. Most Manuscript Editors balance multiple projects at once, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks. This role often offers a mix of independent work and collaborative efforts, whether in an office, hybrid, or remote setting.

What does a manuscript editor do?

A manuscript editor reviews and revises written content to improve clarity, coherence, grammar, and style. They ensure the manuscript adheres to publishing standards and may work with authors to refine the structure and language, often using editing tools and style guides. This role requires strong language skills and attention to detail.
What are popular job titles related to Manuscript Editor jobs in Virginia? For Manuscript Editor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Manuscript Editor job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 9% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,164 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

$48K - $68K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Current ATD Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account.

Come work at a place where innovation and teamwork come together to support the most exciting missions in the world!

Job Description:

About the Role

ATD's Production, Editorial, and Creative department is responsible for editing, designing, producing, and distributing ATD's publications, including 15+ books annually, two bi-monthly periodicals, research reports, and white papers. Additionally, the department supports the editorial and creative needs of all ATD business lines, including Marketing, Education, Conferences, Membership, Enterprise, and Global.

As a Production Editor at ATD, you will report to the Senior Manager, Editorial Services and will be responsible for managing the editorial production workflow of ATD Press books and research reports at all stages, from copyediting through delivery of final files to ensure completion of projects on time.

About ATD

The Association for Talent Development (ATD) is the premier membership organization for professionals in the learning and talent development field. Our mission is to create a world that works better by empowering professionals to develop talent in the workplace. Through training programs, membership, globally recognized certifications and events. We support individuals and organizations in talent development, to perform at the highest level.

What You'll Do

  • Project managing publications through the production life cycle, ensuring that ATD's books and research reports are published on time and meet our quality standards.

  • Working closely with authors and various in-house departments including editorial, design, and production to troubleshoot and resolve problems that arise and ensure all deadlines are met.

  • Preparing manuscripts for typesetting.

  • Contracting with freelance copyeditors, proofreaders, and indexers, and reviewing their work.

  • Reviewing copyedited manuscripts and reconciling copyeditor and author markups; and reviewing, routing, and collating corrections for all stages of manuscripts and proofs.

  • Copyediting, proofreading, and routing metadata and cover materials.

  • Creating and maintaining publishing timelines in Wrike for each title.

  • Creating scripts for audiobooks.

  • Copyediting and proofreading publications and other long-form content as required.

What We're Looking For

  • 3 years' experience editing, proofreading, and writing.

  • Bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or equivalent degree.

  • Proven editorial skills, including the ability to edit, rewrite, proofread (using formal proofreading marks and practices), and quality check at a variety of publishing stages, including manuscripts, page proofs, and printer proofs.

  • Familiarity with Chicago Manual of Style and accustomed to working with specific style guides.

  • Excellent project management skills, including scheduling, time management, and risk management.

  • Detail and accuracy oriented and able to balance many projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while maintaining high standards of quality.

  • Works comfortably with basic computer programs, including tracked changes in Word and the commenting tools in Adobe Acrobat.

  • Knowledge of InDesign and InCopy.

  • Experience using Wrike or similar project management tools.

Why Join Us

  • Opportunity to contribute to the creation and publication of books, research reports, and other resources that advance the talent development profession.

  • Collaborative and mission-driven team environment.

  • Exposure to all aspects of the publishing process, from manuscript development through final production.

  • Opportunity to work with authors, editors, designers, and subject matter experts across the organization.

  • Opportunity to grow and develop professionally within a well-established organization.

Meet the Editorial Team

  • The Editorial Services team is a collaborative team that supports the broader Production, Editorial, and Creative department.

  • We are responsible for editing ATD's books, research reports, education content, marketing emails, promotional materials, website content, and event content.

Work Environment

This role is based in Alexandria, VA and follows a hybrid work model, offering a mix of in-office collaboration and flexibility.

Our office is located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria on King Street - just steps from the Metro, waterfront, and a vibrant mix of shops and restaurants. The environment is energetic and collaborative, providing regular opportunities to connect with teammates and leadership.

We are committed to employee growth and development, offering professional development resources, dedicated learning time, and organization-wide learning initiatives. We also foster a strong sense of community through team events, recognition programs, and company gatherings.

If this opportunity aligns with your experience and interests, we'd love to hear from you!

* Salary Range: [$48,000]-[$68,000].Starting salary will be based on the selected candidate's experience, qualifications, and skills. *


Benefits:

Employment at ATD isn't just about a job - it's about our employees' well-being. Our ATD LiveWell program provides a variety of essential and fun benefits based on areas of Physical, Financial, Social, and Career health. Look at some (but not all) of what we offer and see for yourself!

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits

  • Paid Time Off (PTO, Personal Days, Sick Time, Sabbaticals, Learning Hours)

  • 403(b) plan options with 6% company match and immediate vesting on employee contributions

  • Flexible Spending and Health Savings accounts

  • Unlimited Professional Development through ATD (classes, certifications, resources, etc.)

  • Wellness library and events (virtual and in-person)

  • On-site gym

  • Basic and supplemental life insurance coverages

  • Accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity

  • Company paid Teladoc visits

  • New parent benefits

  • Short- and long-term disability

  • Employee discount program (Tickets at Work, Verizon, Hertz, and more)

  • Pet insurance

EEO Statement:

ATD is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, age, color, national origin, sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.


Need Assistance:
ATD is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations for any applicant with a disability. If you are disabled and need assistance participating in the application or hiring process please contact us at recruiting@td.org or you may call us at 1.800.628.2783.