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Substantive Editor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

BryceTech

Senior Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

Perform substantive editing, technical editing, copy editing, and proofreading * Coordinate with action officers, analysts, and senior leaders to improve clarity, accuracy, and effectiveness of ...

BryceTech

Senior Editor

Arlington, VA

Perform substantive editing, technical editing, copy editing, and proofreading * Coordinate with action officers, analysts, and senior leaders to improve clarity, accuracy, and effectiveness of ...

BryceTech

Senior Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

Perform substantive editing, technical editing, copy editing, and proofreading * Coordinate with action officers, analysts, and senior leaders to improve clarity, accuracy, and effectiveness of ...

ISTE+ASCD

Sr. Editor

Arlington, VA

Exceptional substantive writing and editing skills, with knowledge ofChicago, APA, and AP ... formatting. * Advanced proficiency in CMS and newsletter platforms. * Working knowledge of Adobe ...

ISTE+ASCD

Sr. Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

Exceptional substantive writing and editing skills, with knowledge of Chicago, APA, and AP ... formatting. * Advanced proficiency in CMS and newsletter platforms. * Working knowledge of Adobe ...

BAE Systems

TECHNICAL WRITER/EDITOR

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

... Enhancement Specialist Editor to support the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA ... Perform structural, substantive, and copy edits of analytical manuscripts for organization ...

BAE Systems

TECHNICAL WRITER/EDITOR

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

... Enhancement Specialist Editor to support the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA ... Perform structural, substantive, and copy edits of analytical manuscripts for organization ...

BAE Systems

Tech Writer/Editor Prin

Springfield, VA · On-site

$101K - $172K/yr

Perform structural, substantive, and copy edits of analytical manuscripts for organization ... Attend regularly scheduled editor and tasking support meetings and stay current with ongoing action ...

BAE Systems

Tech Writer/Editor Sr

Springfield, VA · On-site

$82K - $140K/yr

Perform structural, substantive, and copy edits of analytical manuscripts for organization ... Attend regularly scheduled editor and tasking support meetings and stay current with ongoing action ...

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Substantive Editor information

What are substantive editors?

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.

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 job categories do people searching Substantive Editor jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Substantive Editor jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Substantive Editor jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Substantive Editor job openings:
Substantive Editor jobs near you

Senior Editor

BryceTech

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 23 hours ago

Job description

Company Description
BryceTech is a trusted leader in complex technology domains, delivering data-driven solutions in aerospace, biosecurity, and defense. We specialize in systems engineering, advanced analytics, R&D programs, and strategic advisory support. Our clients - including NASA, DoD, HHS, DHS, and other civil and national security agencies - rely on us to drive mission success and accelerate innovation.
BryceTech has been recognized in the Washington Technology Fast 50 ranking of top high-growth small businesses for five consecutive years and received a GovCon Contractor of the Year Award in 2025, underscoring our strong growth, competitive positioning, and excellence in federal contracting. With a proven track record of winning sought-after contracts, scaling high-performance teams, and executing on critical government missions, BryceTech presents a compelling opportunity for strategic partnerships in the GovCon space.
Job Description
BryceTech is seeking a Senior Editor to support National Guard Bureau executive leadership by ensuring the accuracy, consistency, quality, and professionalism of executive correspondence, reports, briefing materials, and governance documentation.
Responsibilities
  • Review, edit, and refine executive correspondence, memoranda, reports, briefing materials, and leadership communications
  • Ensure all products comply with DoD, National Guard Bureau, and executive correspondence standards
  • Perform substantive editing, technical editing, copy editing, and proofreading
  • Coordinate with action officers, analysts, and senior leaders to improve clarity, accuracy, and effectiveness of written products
  • Review congressional responses, leadership communications, policy documents, and strategic communications products
  • Conduct fact-checking, source verification, and quality control reviews
  • Support development of executive read-ahead packages, governance meeting materials, and decision documents
  • Maintain consistency in organizational messaging, formatting, and style
  • Assist in developing writing standards, templates, and process improvements

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Active Secret clearance or above
  • Bachelor's degree in english, communications, journalism, public policy, political science, or related field
  • Minimum 8 years of professional editing, writing, communications, or executive support experience
  • Demonstrated experience editing executive-level correspondence and official government documents
  • Exceptional command of grammar, style, and written communication
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines
  • Excellent interpersonal and collaboration skills

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting DoD, Joint Staff, military headquarters, or federal executive organizations
  • Familiarity with military correspondence formats and executive staffing processes
  • Experience supporting congressional correspondence and senior leader communications

Additional Information
Position is contingent upon contract award.
BryceTech offers a full range of benefits, including competitive salary, a comprehensive health plan including dental and vision coverage, company-paid life & disability insurance policies, 401(k) plan with company match, and an educational reimbursement program.
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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