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Substantive Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We make substantive edits. This is not a proofreading service! Nor do we write essays for clients. Tap the link for details of our editing approach and our business principles.

Collaborate with developmental editors on substantive edits * Write or revise copy when requested * Review final pages for typographical and layout issues * Meet deadlines while staying within ...

Apply substantive and linguistic knowledge of target issue areas. Qualifications Minimum Requirements High School Diploma. * 3 years of relevant experience, including editing work of linguists ...

Apply substantive and linguistic knowledge of target issue areas. Qualifications Minimum Requirements High School Diploma. * 7 years of relevant experience, including editing work of linguists ...

Edit formal technical reports at all editorial levels, including substantive editing, copyediting, and proofreading. Correct grammar, punctuation, syntax, usage, capitalization, citations, formatting ...

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Substantive Editor information

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$11

$31

$57

How much do substantive editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for substantive editor in the United States is $31.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $39.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 cities are hiring for Substantive Editor jobs? Cities with the most Substantive Editor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Substantive Editor jobs? The most popular types of Substantive Editor jobs are:
What states have the most Substantive Editor jobs? States with the most job openings for Substantive Editor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Substantive Editor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Substantive Editor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Substantive Editor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,728 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Technical Editor/Data Manager

Technical Editor/Data Manager

CACI International, Inc.

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$58K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Technical Editor/Data Manager
Job Category: Engineering and Technical Support
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Secret
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%
Type of Travel: Local
* * *
The Opportunity:
CACI is seeking a Technical Writer/Editor to join its Product Assurance Team in Albuquerque, NM. The successful candidate will be a team player, as well as a highly motivated and independent thinker requiring minimal oversight. This role is responsible for proofreading, editing, and formatting a variety of technical documentation and requires comfort with all levels of editing, including substantive editing.
The Technical Writer/Editor edits and formats information for distribution through various media channels, including printed materials, email, SharePoint, and other electronic access points. The role also involves gathering information, interviewing subject matter experts, and conducting research to convey technical material in a concise and effective manner.
Responsibilities:
Collaborates with representatives across various functional groups assigned to the product or program, including Senior Management, Project Management, Product Assurance, Technical Publications, Technical Services, Operations, Customer Support, and Finance
Reviews design, manufacturing, and testing documentation, including Statements of Work (SOW) and other contractual requirements
Ensures contract compliance by reviewing SOWs, government requirements, and the latest revisions of technical publications
Reviews Work Orders assigned to Quality Assurance personnel, including editors and data managers, and provides status updates and assignment completion reports
Completes editing tasks while maintaining flexibility within processes to avoid impacts to delivery schedules
May attend project meetings to support process understanding and collaboration
Delivers customer deliverables to data management repositories
Performs other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
Required:

Active Secret Clearance
3-5 years of technical editing experience
Proficient in reading and interpreting technical documentation
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to create and present performance measurements and metrics
Collaborates effectively with engineering teams, customers, and management at a technical level
Strong team player with the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
Ability to learn and navigate online systems and databases with relative ease
Desired:
BA/BS degree or equivalent experience with a minimum of 3 years of technical editing experience, or an associate degree with related coursework
Prior experience in a technical editing position
Experience using Microsoft Access databases
Familiarity with Aerospace Standard AS9100
Familiarity with the use and application of style guides and style sheets
What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$58,500 - $122,800
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.