What does a Lead 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.

What responsibilities are common for Lead Editor jobs?
  • 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
What are the typical qualifications for Lead Editor jobs?
  • 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
Education--
Work/Life Balance
3.5 ★
Total Pay--
Career Opportunity
3.3 ★
Avg. Experience2-4 years

How much does a Lead Editor make near United States?

Confident
$70,262 /yr
Total Pay
$66,507
 /yr

Base Pay

+
$3,755
 /yr

Additional Pay

$70,262

 / yr
$42K$117K
Most Likely Range
Possible Range
See More Insights

Lead Editor Career Path

Learn how to become a Lead Editor, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Deputy Editor
$100,046/yr
Lead Editor
$70,262/yr
Lead Editor

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
0%
2 - 4
73%
5 - 7
27%
8+
0%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Lead Editor Insights

Read what Lead Editor professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
Proxy-storeProxy-store
Managing Editor
Jan 6, 2023

“They have a great team that's friendly and I haven't had any significant issues.”

Leverage EduLeverage Edu
Content Editor
Apr 25, 2022

“Here I have met some of the best people who are friendlier and more supportive.”

Viva BooksViva Books
Assistant Editor
Feb 14, 2023

“I have got great opportunities to work with Sangeeta Gupta ma’am and Ms Akanksha Dudpuri (Managing Editor).”

PerfectlyOkayPerfectlyOkay
Website Editor
Apr 28, 2023

“My team was headed by Saksham and he is the best boss anyone can ask for.”

Blue Star DesignBlue Star Design
Writer/Editor
Oct 9, 2021

“I felt like I was given a great degree of autonomy and latitude in my responsibilities.”

Global Press JournalGlobal Press Journal
Editor
Oct 9, 2023

“The best part about working here was the amazing people who we would meet and work with globally.”

PBS NewshourPBS Newshour
Senior Editor
Dec 1, 2021

“There are some great people and they do good work and really value their employees.”

LADbible GroupLADbible Group
Junior Social Editor
Feb 15, 2022

“The training that was given was thorough and I felt listened to by my manager.”

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Lead Editor Interviews

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 $70,262 per year, but their salary can vary depending on their experience. Highly experienced editors can make up to $92,074 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.

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Lead Editor Jobs