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Substantive Editor Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Epitec

Editor - III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$46 - $50/hr

Perform substantive editing of manuscripts and research documents to improve clarity, consistency, and readability. * Edit and review content intended for publication on public-facing websites and ...

New

Horizontal Talent

Research Editor

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

Perform substantive editing on manuscripts and internal research content, helping strengthen structure, flow, and readability. * Refine public-facing website content and help translate technical or ...

New

VIVA USA INC

Research Editor

Chicago, IL · On-site

Perform substantive copyediting of research publications and manuscripts submitted by economists to ... editing, copyediting technical material, proofreading, reviewing page layouts and designs using ...

New

Stefanini Group

Research Editor

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

Perform substantive copyediting of research publications and manuscripts submitted by economists to ... Substantive experience content editing, copyediting technical material, proofreading, reviewing ...

New

Stefanini Group

Research Editor

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

Perform substantive copyediting of research publications and manuscripts submitted by economists to ... Substantive experience content editing, copyediting technical material, proofreading, reviewing ...

New

Stefanini Group

Research Editor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$45 - $48/hr

Perform substantive copyediting of research publications and manuscripts submitted by economists to ... Substantive experience content editing, copyediting technical material, proofreading, reviewing ...

New

Stefanini Group

Research Editor

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

Perform substantive copyediting of research publications and manuscripts submitted by economists to ... Substantive experience content editing, copyediting technical material, proofreading, reviewing ...

New

Stefanini

Research Editor

Chicago, IL · On-site

Perform substantive copyediting of research publications and manuscripts submitted by economists to ... editing, copyediting technical material, proofreading, reviewing page layouts and designs using ...

New

Synectics Inc

Research Editor

Chicago, IL

$38.19 - $52.72/hr

You will be responsible for editing written content including published scholarly articles ... Perform substantive copyediting of research publications and manuscripts submitted by economists to ...

New

Dlapiper

Legal Specialist, Copy Editor

Chicago, IL

Standardize billing language and formatting across matters while preserving the substantive ... Track recurring editing issues and recommend solutions to improve overall billing quality ...

New

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All JobsSubstantive Editor JobsSubstantive Editor Jobs in Illinois

Substantive Editor information

What is a substantive editor?

Substantive editors are professionals who review and refine written content at a deep structural level. Their role involves evaluating the organization, clarity, flow, and overall coherence of a manuscript, rather than just correcting grammar or spelling. They often suggest significant changes to improve the content’s effectiveness, such as reorganizing sections, clarifying arguments, or ensuring consistency in tone and style. Substantive editors work closely with authors to enhance the quality and impact of the writing, making it more suitable for its intended audience and purpose.

How does a substantive editor typically collaborate with authors and other editorial team members during the editing process?

Substantive Editors work closely with authors to clarify content, improve structure, and ensure the manuscript meets publication standards. They often provide detailed feedback, suggest reorganizations, and may hold meetings or correspond regularly to discuss revisions. Collaboration with copy editors and proofreaders is common to maintain consistency and address any language or formatting issues that arise after structural edits. This team-oriented approach helps ensure the final product is polished, coherent, and ready for publication.

Are substantive editors still in demand?

Substantive editors are still in demand as organizations seek to improve the clarity, coherence, and quality of their content, especially in publishing, academic, and corporate sectors. The role often requires strong editing skills, familiarity with style guides, and attention to detail, with demand remaining steady due to ongoing content creation needs.

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

To thrive as a Substantive Editor, you need advanced language proficiency, a deep understanding of narrative structure, and a degree in English, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with editing software like Microsoft Word’s Track Changes, content management systems, and relevant editorial style guides is typically required. Strong collaboration, critical thinking, and effective communication skills help you work closely with writers and provide constructive feedback. These competencies ensure that manuscripts are clear, coherent, and well-organized, ultimately improving the quality and impact of published content.

What is the difference between Substantive Editor vs Copy Editor?

AspectSubstantive EditorCopy Editor
Primary FocusContent structure, clarity, and overall coherenceGrammar, punctuation, and style correctness
CredentialsOften requires editing certifications or related degreesTypically requires editing or language proficiency certifications
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, academic journals, or content agenciesPublishing, media, or corporate editing roles
Common TasksRevising content flow, ensuring logical structureCorrecting language errors, consistency in style

Substantive Editors focus on the overall content structure and clarity, ensuring the material is logically organized and coherent. Copy Editors primarily concentrate on language accuracy, grammar, and style. While both roles require strong editing skills and related certifications, Substantive Editors often work on larger content revisions, whereas Copy Editors refine language details. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right role for their skills and career goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substantive Editor jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Substantive Editor jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Substantive Editor jobs in Illinois? For Substantive Editor jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Substantive Editor jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Substantive Editor jobs in Illinois are:
Substantive Editor jobs near you

Editor - III

Epitec

Chicago, IL • On-site

$46 - $50/hr

Contractor

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

  • Location: Chicago, Illinois
  • Type: Contract
  • Job #105807

Title: Research Editor
Location: Chicago, IL
Details: 24-month contract with ongoing need, opportunity for direct hire, Hybrid position onsite 4 days weekly
Pay Rate: $46.00 - 50.00/hr. with benefit inclusions
Job Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented Research Editor to support the development, editing, and publication of high-quality research content. This individual will edit scholarly articles, research periodicals, e-newsletters, website content, and speeches, helping translate complex technical and economic subject matter into clear, engaging communications for broad audiences. The ideal candidate is a collaborative, highly organized editor with strong writing skills, a commitment to accuracy, and an interest in leveraging AI tools to enhance editorial workflows.
Responsibilities
  • Copyedit and proofread research publications, periodicals, e-newsletters, and related editorial content.
  • Perform substantive editing of manuscripts and research documents to improve clarity, consistency, and readability.
  • Edit and review content intended for publication on public-facing websites and digital platforms.
  • Collaborate with researchers and subject matter experts to translate complex topics into accessible communications.
  • Communicate editorial processes, revisions, and timelines with authors and stakeholders.
  • Review and verify bibliographies, citations, tables, charts, figures, indexes, and other publication elements.
  • Utilize AI-enabled tools to improve editorial efficiency and content quality.
  • Review HTML-converted content and coordinate revisions with web production teams.
  • Maintain accurate records of editorial projects within tracking and documentation systems.
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting quality standards and deadlines.

Years of Experience and Education
  • Bachelor's degree in English, Journalism, Economics, Communications, or a related field; equivalent professional experience may be considered.
  • Minimum of 4 years of professional experience in content editing, copyediting, proofreading, or related editorial work.
  • Experience editing technical, academic, research, or subject matter expert-driven content preferred.
  • Experience supporting publications through review, approval, and production processes.

Skills Required
  • Advanced copyediting, proofreading, and substantive editing skills.
  • Strong knowledge of editorial style guides, including Chicago Manual of Style or similar standards.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to explain and present complex subject matter in a clear and engaging manner.
  • Experience reviewing page layouts, content formatting, and publication-ready materials.
  • Familiarity with AI research tools and prompt engineering concepts.
  • Experience working with web content management systems and reviewing HTML-formatted content.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with authors, researchers, and cross-functional teams.
  • Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to prioritize competing deadlines.
  • Demonstrated curiosity, adaptability, and commitment to continuous learning.
  • Interest in economics, public policy, research communications, financial services, or related subject matter.

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