What does an Editor do?
An editor is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and quality of a company's written materials. They are responsible for planning and creating written materials. A few of the main duties of an editor are editing copy and improving on it, educate writers on best practices, identify ways to improve the flow of materials, and advise writers on content pieces. They also have to create a content calendar. Some of the jobs titles that a editor could grow into are editor in chief and senior editor.
An editor should have 2 years of experience in writing and a Bachelor's degree in journalism or english. One of the most important skills that an editor will have is their ability to improve on other people's work. Another skill is attention to detail as the editor will need to edit every single piece of writing that the company puts out.
- Rewrite copy from writers
- Modify written content from writers
- Develop a content calendar
- Develop ideas for content
- Oversee content production
- Create highly shareable content
- Adhere to journalism best practices
- Assign projects and monitor deadlines
- Bachelor's degree in journalism or english
- Strong writing and proofreading skills
- Experience with content management systems
- Ability to meet the necessary budget
- Great attention to detail
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to give constructive feedback
- Conceptual creative abilities
- Ability to create stories
Editor Salaries
Average Base Pay
Editor Career Path
Learn how to become an Editor, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Editor Insights
Proxy-store“They have a great team that's friendly and I haven't had any significant issues.”
Leverage Edu“Here I have met some of the best people who are friendlier and more supportive.”
Viva Books“I have got great opportunities to work with Sangeeta Gupta ma’am and Ms Akanksha Dudpuri (Managing Editor).”
Blue Star Design“I felt like I was given a great degree of autonomy and latitude in my responsibilities.”
PBS Newshour“There are some great people and they do good work and really value their employees.”
LADbible Group“The training that was given was thorough and I felt listened to by my manager.”
WLS-TV“I've gotten the opportunity to really see what I enjoy doing and what my strengths and weaknesses are.”
Enago“I have had the opportunities to grow and advance in both my position and income.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of editors
On a typical day an editor will outline, revise, and coordinate material for publication on websites or in periodicals, newspapers, or books. They review proposed story ideas and determine which materials will be appealing to the majority of readers. Editors may do all editorial duties themselves or share with others depending on the size of the company.
Editing is a great career for those who excel in project management and the English language, and have great attention to detail. Depending on the company, editing jobs can be remote, which is a perk for many.
Yes, successful editors get paid well. The average base pay of an editor in the United States is $3,579 per year, but their salary can vary depending on their experience. Highly experienced editors can make up to $9,000 per year.
Working as an editor can be challenging at times, as they usually work in busy companies and have to deal with the pressures of production deadlines and the stress of ensuring all published information is correct. They often work long hours, especially when publication deadlines loom.