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Substantive Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Concordia Publishing House

Discuss problems and substantive changes with the Concordia Commentary Editor. * Review & act upon author comments to edited manuscript as guided by the Concordia Commentary Editor. * Put edited ...

The New York Times

Night Editor, Politics

New York, NY · On-site

$124K - $135K/yr

The New York Times Politics desk is seeking a Senior Staff Editor to anchor our evening operation ... substantive content during the application and interview process. If you're an Engineering ...

The New York Times

Assistant Fashion Editor

New York, NY · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

This editor will be responsible for identifying, assigning and editing stories that range from fast ... substantive content during the application and interview process. If you're an Engineering ...

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 ...

LMI

Technical Editor

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$85K - $110K/yr

Editing, writing, and proofreading publications ... Analyzing written communication and making substantive and structural changes when necessary

LMI

Technical Editor

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$85K - $110K/yr

Editing, writing, and proofreading publications ... Analyzing written communication and making substantive and structural changes when necessary

The New York Times

Staff Photo Editor

New York, NY · On-site

$113K - $115K/yr

The New York Times Magazine is looking for a photo editor to conceptualize, assign and produce ... substantive content during the application and interview process. If you're an Engineering ...

LMI

Technical Editor

Washington, DC · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Editing, writing, and proofreading publications ... Analyzing written communication and making substantive and structural changes when necessary

Amca

Technical Editor

El Segundo, CA · On-site

Overview Amca's Technical Editor will be responsible for translating the company's extensive ... substantive and generates meaningful inbound. * Execute on editorial opportunities (sponsored ...

The New York Times

Story Editor, NYT Magazine

New York, NY · On-site

$124K - $135K/yr

The editor will generate ideas quickly, make smart assignments for reported features and essays at ... substantive content during the application and interview process. If you're an Engineering ...

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Substantive Editor information

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How much do substantive editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 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:
Substantive Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substantive Editor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 71% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,728 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Associate Editor, Concordia Commentary Series

Associate Editor, Concordia Commentary Series

Concordia Publishing House

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Production Editor, Level II

Full Time

The Associate Editor, Concordia Commentary Series, carries out all CPH production tasks as assigned by the Concordia Commentary Editor, including copyediting and formatting, with a careful eye toward maintaining professional and CPH standards. This position supports Concordia Commentary Editor by fulfilling all regular and specially assigned duties. Works closely with Concordia Commentary Editor; Production Control; and Design.

Specific duties include:
  • Place electronic files in the commentary template and apply correct style tags, as necessary.
  • Input Greek and Hebrew text, as necessary. Oversee any freelance copyeditor who has been signed up to help with this.
  • Read developed commentary manuscripts for (a) conformity to Scripture and LCMS doctrine; (b) House/commentary style; (c) standard rules of grammar and spelling; (d) clarity of thought and organization; (e) accuracy of facts and sources; (f) placement of artwork, maps, and diagrams, making all changes in the electronic copy of the manuscript.
  • Check accuracy (as time permits) and copyright information of quotes and references.
  • Discuss problems and substantive changes with the Concordia Commentary Editor.
  • Review & act upon author comments to edited manuscript as guided by the Concordia Commentary Editor.
  • Put edited manuscript into electronic layout files.
  • Review page sets to ensure everything is in place and all queries and concerns are resolved.
  • Place marginal icons (as indicated by the Concordia Commentary Editor on pages) in electronic layout files.
  • Make needed changes, including Hebrew and Greek changes, in electronic layout files.
  • Oversee the preparation of the indexes and copyedit them.
  • Check the printer's proof of the commentary body.
The ideal candidate will possess the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:

Knowledge of

  • Scripture and LCMS doctrine and practice
  • Biblical Hebrew and Greek
  • English grammar and usage
  • How to access and utilize reference materials (books, Internet, etc.

Skilled in

  • Writing and editing for clarity
  • Exegetical writing
  • Critical analysis
  • Researching facts and data via reference books and the Internet
  • Checking details
  • Applying grammatical and style rules to existing writing
  • Using Greek and Hebrew fonts

Able to

  • Communicate through the written word
  • Work in a tactful and cooperative manner while meeting deadlines
  • Use desktop publishing software, especially Adobe InDesign
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Power Point, Excel, Outlook)

Education and Experience

  • Master of Divinity Degree (M.Div.) or equivalent from a seminary of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod or a partner seminary
  • Minimum of four years' experience in theological editing and/or writing, preferably in a publishing environment.
  • Must demonstrate knowledge of biblical languages (both Hebrew and Greek).
  • Must demonstrate knowledge of and commitment to LCMS theology.

CPH offers a generous benefits package that can be tailored to your specific needs and well-being.

  • Health benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, Wellness, and Tax-advantaged Savings and Spending Accounts.
  • Life Insurance, Accidental Death, Survivor Death benefits, and Disability Income Protection
  • Generous Paid Time Off policy and Holiday Pay, as well as paid Parental Leave, Christian Mission Trips, and Jury Duty.
  • 403(b) Retirement Savings option with a company match contribution and company contributions to a Pension Plan.
  • Tuition Reimbursement for advanced degrees for yourself and for your children attending an LCMS elementary or high school.
  • A chance to work in a family-friendly environment.

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter.