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Professional Editing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Vectrona, LLC

Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Qualifications: * 5+ years of professional editing, technical writing, communications, publications management, or executive correspondence experience. * Experience ...

Vectrona, LLC

Senior Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

Ensure written products meet established standards for grammar, clarity, style, format, consistency, and professionalism. * Perform substantive editing, quality assurance reviews, fact-checking, and ...

jobr.pro

Senior Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

Minimum 8 years of professional editing, writing, communications, or executive support experience * Demonstrated experience editing executive-level correspondence and official government documents

New

BAE Systems

Tech Writer/Editor Sr

Springfield, VA · On-site

Required Skills and Education At least three years of relevant professional-editing experience. Relevant education will not count towards meeting this requirement. * A bachelor's degree in a field ...

BryceTech

Senior Editor

Arlington, VA

Minimum 8 years of professional editing, writing, communications, or executive support experience * Demonstrated experience editing executive-level correspondence and official government documents

BryceTech

Senior Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

Minimum 8 years of professional editing, writing, communications, or executive support experience * Demonstrated experience editing executive-level correspondence and official government documents

BryceTech

Senior Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

Minimum 8 years of professional editing, writing, communications, or executive support experience * Demonstrated experience editing executive-level correspondence and official government documents

Chartis Federal

Editor/Researcher

Arlington, VA · On-site

Requirements * 5+ years of experience in professional editing, proofreading, research, and document quality control. * Demonstrated experience preparing executive correspondence, publications, or ...

Chartis Federal

Editor/Researcher

Arlington, VA · On-site

Requirements * 5+ years of experience in professional editing, proofreading, research, and document quality control. * Demonstrated experience preparing executive correspondence, publications, or ...

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Professional Editing information

What is professional editing?

Professional editing is the process of reviewing, revising, and refining written content to improve its clarity, accuracy, structure, and overall quality. Editors ensure that documents are grammatically correct, logically organized, and tailored to meet the needs of the intended audience. This process can involve various levels of editing, including proofreading, copyediting, and substantive editing, depending on the project's requirements. Professional editors work on a wide range of materials such as books, articles, reports, and marketing content. Their expertise helps writers present their ideas effectively and professionally.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional editor?

To excel as a Professional Editor, you need exceptional language proficiency, a keen eye for detail, and a strong understanding of grammar and style guidelines, often supported by a relevant degree or editing certification. Familiarity with style manuals (such as AP, Chicago, or MLA), editing software (like Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Word Track Changes), and content management systems is typically required. Strong communication, time management, and adaptability help editors collaborate effectively with writers and meet tight deadlines. These skills ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency in published materials, upholding quality standards and client expectations.

How do professional editors typically collaborate with writers and other stakeholders throughout a project?

Professional editors often work closely with writers, subject-matter experts, and sometimes designers or project managers during the editing process. Regular communication is key, as editors provide feedback, clarify intent, and ensure the content meets style and quality standards. Collaboration tools such as tracked changes in documents and project management platforms are commonly used to facilitate transparent revisions and feedback cycles. Editors also balance multiple deadlines and priorities, making organizational skills essential for successful teamwork.

What is the difference between Professional Editing vs Copy Editing?

AspectProfessional EditingCopy Editing
CredentialsTypically requires editing certifications or degrees in editing, journalism, or related fieldsOften requires similar credentials, focusing on language and grammar expertise
Work EnvironmentWorks on manuscripts, articles, books, and digital content across various industriesFocuses on correcting grammar, punctuation, style, and consistency in texts
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by publishing houses, media companies, and freelance editorsCommonly employed by publishers, magazines, and online content creators

Professional editing involves comprehensive content review, including structure, clarity, and style, while copy editing primarily focuses on correcting language errors and ensuring consistency. Both roles require strong language skills and often overlap, but professional editing offers a broader scope of content refinement.

Are professional editors still in demand?

Professional editors are still in demand across publishing, media, and corporate sectors due to the ongoing need for high-quality content. Skills in editing, familiarity with editing tools, and adaptability to digital platforms enhance employability in this field.

How do you become a professional editor?

To become a professional editor, you typically need a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field, along with strong language skills and attention to detail. Gaining experience through internships, freelance work, or entry-level editing positions helps build a portfolio, and proficiency with editing tools like Microsoft Word or Adobe InDesign is often required.

How much do professional editors make?

Professional editors typically earn between $30,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, specialization, and industry. Freelance editors may charge hourly rates ranging from $25 to $75 or more, with income varying based on workload and client base.

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

The most popular types of Editing jobs in Virginia are:

Professional Editing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Editing job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Editor

Arlington, VA • On-site

Vectrona, LLC
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Vectrona, LLCexternal

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Edit and proofread executive correspondence, memoranda, reports, briefings, and staff packages.

  • Review documents for grammar, clarity, consistency, accuracy, formatting, and compliance with organizational standards.

  • Support the preparation, coordination, and development of leadership communications and executive-level products.

Job description

Status: Full-Time, Contingent Upon Award

Location: Arlington, VA / National Capital Region

Start date: 8August2026

Security Clearance: Top Secret

Travel: Minimal

Background: Vectrona is seeking an Editor to support senior National Guard, Joint Staff, and headquarters organizations by reviewing, editing, formatting, and preparing executive correspondence, staff actions, policy documents, reports, and leadership communications. The Editor works closely with analysts, action officers, and leadership staff to ensure written products are clear,accurate, professionally presented, and ready for executive review and coordination.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities:

  • Edit and proofread executive correspondence, memoranda, information papers, reports, briefings, and staff packages.
  • Review documents for grammar, clarity, consistency, accuracy, formatting, and compliance with organizational standards.
  • Assist with preparation and coordination of leadership communications and executive-level products.
  • Perform fact-checking, content validation, and quality control reviews.
  • Format documents in accordance with established correspondence and publication requirements.
  • Support document tracking, routing, version control, and publication activities.
  • Conduct research to verify information and support development of written products.
  • Assist with records management, archiving, indexing, and document repository maintenance.
  • Coordinate with action officers, analysts, and leadership staff to resolve comments and improve document quality.
  • Support development of executive summaries, briefing materials, talking points, and communication products.
  • Maintain consistency across organizational publications and official correspondence.

Preferred Education/Degree:

  • Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Journalism, Public Affairs, Technical Writing, Government, Business Administration, or related field.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Qualifications:

  • 5+ years of professional editing, technical writing, communications, publications management, or executive correspondence experience.
  • Experience supporting DoD, Joint Staff, National Guard, Service Headquarters, Federal agencies, or comparable organizations.
  • Strong knowledge of executive correspondence standards, document formatting requirements, and editorial best practices.
  • Excellent writing, editing, proofreading, and fact-checking skills.
  • Experience reviewing policy documents, memoranda, staff actions, reports, and executive communications.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple assignments simultaneously.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications, SharePoint, and collaborative document management tools.
  • Ability to work effectively with senior leaders, action officers, analysts, and stakeholders in fast-paced environments.
  • Professional editing, communications, public affairs, or technical writing certification preferred.

VECTRONA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND A DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE.

The above information has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this position.

All Vectrona employment is contingent upon the individual providing legal proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States and satisfactory background check results.

Employment with Vectrona is “at will” in accordance with Federal/State laws.

Vectrona provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applications for employment. In addition to federal law requirements, Vectrona complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.

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