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Professional Editing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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

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

Distant Moon

Film Editor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

Approximately 3 - 5+ years of professional editing experience across documentary, commercial, branded, narrative, or related content environments * A portfolio or reel demonstrating strong ...

Distant Moon

Series Film Editor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

Approximately 35+ years of professional editing experience. * A portfolio demonstrating strong storytelling instincts, editorial judgment, and the ability to identify emotional hooks that keep ...

Distant Moon

Sr. Film Editor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

Typically 7 - 10+ years of professional editing experience across documentary, commercial, branded, or narrative projects * A strong portfolio demonstrating high-level storytelling, pacing, emotional ...

Acushnetgolf

$69K - $86K/yr

Minimum three (3) years of professional editing experience creating commercial, branded, documentary, or digital content, including work across YouTube, social media, digital marketing, product ...

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Professional Editing information

How much do professional editors make?

Professional editors typically earn between $30,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, specialization, and whether they work freelance or for a company. Experienced editors with specialized skills or working in publishing or technical fields tend to earn higher salaries. Many editors also supplement income through freelance work or multiple projects.

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 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.

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 and communication skills. 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.

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.

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 and clear communication. Skills in editing, familiarity with editing tools, and adaptability to digital platforms enhance employability in this field.
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, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Editor - Mid Level with Security Clearance

Integrity First Technologies LLC

Springfield, VA • On-site

$105/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Editor - Mid Level Salary Range: $105-115k **Must possess a TS clearance (TS/SCI preferred)**
***We will not review applicants with less than a TS clearance*** Required:
o At least three years of relevant professional editing experience.
o Superior and demonstrable proficiency in English language mechanics and vocabulary.
o Knowledge of government-mandated plain language principles.
o Strong computer skills and demonstrated proficiency on PC platforms.
o Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Acrobat.
o Working knowledge of electronic publishing software such as Adobe InDesign and Adobe FrameMaker.
o Working knowledge of structured authoring software (using SGML, XML, or HTML) and expert ability to format documents using such software.
o May be asked to achieve 80 percent or higher on a diagnostic assessment, which will be administered by ATC. The government may consider waiving the requirement.
o Demonstrated aptitude in working with current, industry-standard electronic publishing computer systems, applications, and databases.
o Strong presentation and Interpersonal skills.
o Excellent writing skills.
o Familiarity with basic print-based and web-based design principles.
o Working knowledge of web and multimedia technologies, and the ability to test and troubleshoot interactive and multimedia products using these technologies.
o Familiarity with the US Intelligence Community--specifically, imagery collection and exploitation.
o Experience in problem identification and analysis.
o Possess critical thinking and problem-solving skills
o Ability to research and gather information.
o Excellent customer service skills.
o Experience in developing working relationships and networking.
o Ability to ensure consistency in content, clarity, and appropriateness for intended audiences. Desired:
o At least three years of professional relevant editing experience along with an undergraduate degree in English, journalism, or a related field (history, philosophy, liberal arts, or professional writing, but NOT including broadcast journalism, broadcast communications, IT/technical writing, or grant/proposal writing) OR at least seven years of professional editing experience without the specified degree.

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