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Senior Editor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary The Senior Editor's primary responsibilities consists of researching, planning, assigning, editing and writing articles for the magazine's features, regular departments, and other ...

Senior Editor, Hybrid (4 days onsite). Start date is ASAP for this 4 Month Contract position ending September 30, 2026. Job Title: Senior Editor, AI Search Location-Type: Hybrid, Chicago, IL 60607 (3 ...

The Senior Medical Editor is responsible for a range of Editorial services, including medical editing, copyediting, proofreading and fact checking of digital and print pharmaceutical advertising ...

The Senior Medical Editor is responsible for a range of Editorial services, including medical editing, copyediting, proofreading and fact checking of digital and print pharmaceutical advertising ...

The Senior Medical Editor is responsible for a range of Editorial services, including medical editing, copyediting, proofreading and fact checking of digital and print pharmaceutical advertising ...

Sourcebooks is seeking a Senior Production Editor to join our Adult Publishing Operations team. This is more than a production role--it's an opportunity to serve as a strategic leader who drives ...

Sourcebooks is seeking a Senior Production Editor to join our Adult Publishing Operations team. This is more than a production role-it's an opportunity to serve as a strategic leader who drives ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Editor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$38.1K

$85.6K

$124.1K

How much do senior editor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior editor in Chicago, IL is $85,616.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $107,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior editor?

Senior Editors are experienced professionals responsible for overseeing the content creation and editing process within publishing, media, or communications organizations. They manage editorial teams, set editorial guidelines, and ensure that all published material meets high standards of quality and accuracy. Senior Editors also collaborate with writers, provide feedback, and may make final decisions on which content gets published. Their role often includes mentoring junior staff and maintaining the overall editorial vision. Strong leadership, editing skills, and a keen eye for detail are essential for this position.

What does a senior editor do?

The duties of a senior editor are to oversee writing or production for newspapers, magazines, newsletters, or other types of digital or print media, such as a website or blog. Responsibilities include working with staff writers, freelancers, and interns, assigning stories for them to write or research. A senior editor also oversees junior editors and copy editors, making decisions regarding content and offering suggestions. They typically report to an editor-in-chief or managing editor as well as the publisher. Qualifications to become a senior editor often include a bachelor’s or master’s degree as well as experience in the publishing industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Editor, you need advanced editorial judgment, strong writing and grammar skills, and typically a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with content management systems (CMS), editing software like Adobe InDesign, and style guides such as AP or Chicago Manual of Style is common. Leadership, attention to detail, and the ability to give constructive feedback are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure high-quality content, efficient editorial workflows, and effective team collaboration in a fast-paced publishing environment.

How does a senior editor typically collaborate with writers and other editorial team members to maintain content quality?

A Senior Editor plays a key role in guiding writers and junior editors through the editorial process, providing constructive feedback to ensure content meets organizational standards. They often lead regular meetings to align on editorial direction, oversee the revision process, and coordinate with fact-checkers or subject matter experts. Collaboration tools and clear communication are essential, as Senior Editors must balance maintaining consistency with encouraging creativity and growth among team members. This collaborative approach not only upholds content quality but also fosters a supportive and productive work environment.

What is the difference between Senior Editor vs Content Strategist?

AspectSenior EditorContent Strategist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or related field; editing experienceBachelor's degree in marketing, communications, or related; strategic planning experience
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, media companies, online mediaMarketing agencies, corporate communications, media firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in publishing, media, online content creationUsed in marketing, branding, digital media
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for content quality and editing rolesCompared for content planning and strategy development

The main difference between a Senior Editor and a Content Strategist lies in their focus: Senior Editors primarily oversee content editing, quality, and publication, while Content Strategists develop plans to align content with marketing goals. Both roles require strong communication skills and industry experience, but they serve different functions within content creation and management.

What are the most commonly searched types of Editor jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Editor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Editor jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Senior Editor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Senior Editor jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Senior Editor job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Editor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,616 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Senior Editor-Fitness

Life Time

Highland Park, IL • On-site

$107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Research, plan, assign, edit, and write articles for the magazine's features, departments, and digital content.

  • Develop and maintain relationships with freelance writers, review submissions, and ensure content meets quality standards and deadlines.

  • Contribute ideas and develop content for digital initiatives in collaboration with the digital team.


Life Time rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 394 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 63 rated gym and leisure clubs


Job description

Position Summary

The Senior Editor's primary responsibilities consists of researching, planning, assigning, editing and writing articles for the magazine's features, regular departments, and other content areas, including digital. The Senior Editor contributes to the editorial calendar and creative-planning process, and works closely with the managing editor, deputy editors, and editor in chief to supply content that meets the creative and quality standards outlined in the creative blueprint. It is the Senior Editor's responsibility to develop and maintain good working relationships with a stable of talented freelance writers, and to ensure that their work comes in on time, meets quality standards, and adheres to the content and article outlines provided. Central tasks include Web and print research, writing, editing, and maintaining clear, consistent communication with freelancers and editorial staff.    

Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Maintains in-depth working knowledge of health, fitness, quality-of-life, and related topics sources and trends  
  • Works with editorial team to develop per-issue content outlines             
  • Researches, plans, and assigns features and departments to coincide with production calendar
  • Seeks out and reviews submissions from freelance talent and selects and evaluates writers on an ongoing basis     
  • Submits assignments and contract information to the  managing editor and project manager     
  • Manages freelance talent through various stages of concepting, development, writing, editing, fact checking, and layout      
  • Reviews, edits, and copy-fits articles in Word and InDesign and reviews PDFs of completed layouts         
  • Completes fact-check, revisions, source, and other requests from editorial and proofing staff   
  • Contributes ideas to digital content process, develops content, and executes on initiatives in collaboration with the digital team     
  • Assists in training, developing and accessing junior staff to ensure continuous growth through orientations, direction, or feedback                                                                                                                                  

Position Requirements

  • Bachelor's Degree in English, Journalism related field
  • 4 or more years of experience of prior editorial or related experience
  • Ability to write and edit copy for clarity, accuracy and style
  • Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat and InDesign
  • Knowledge of health, wellness, fitness, quality-of-life content areas
  • Limited required travel for meetings and industry events
PayThis is a salaried position starting at $78,000.00(or applicable minimum salary, if higher) and pays up to $107,000.00, based on experience and qualifications.Benefits

All team members receive the following benefits while working for Life Time:

  • A fully subsidized membership

  • Discounts on Life Time products and services

  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company discretionary match (21 years of age and older)

  • Training and professional development

  • Paid sick leave where required by law

Full-time Team Members are eligible for additional benefits, including:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage

  • Short term and long term disability insurance

  • Life insurance

  • Pre-tax flexible spending and dependent care plans

  • Parental leave and adoption assistance

  • Paid time off, including 5 to 20 vacation days per calendar year (based on tenure) and paid sick leave

  • Deferred compensation plan, if the team member meets the required income threshold

Life Time is a place for everyone. As an organization, we are committed to an inclusive, diverse and equitable workplace that respects and celebrates the unique contributions of each individual while ensuring we remain an equal opportunity employer that recruits, hires, trains and promotes based on merit and qualifications.


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