How to Become an Editor
Shape written work from draft to publication: plan coverage, sharpen copy, and decide what runs. It typically requires a bachelor's degree, with a median salary of $77,920 per year and slower than average projected job growth.
Median pay
$77,920/yr
Job growth
1%
Openings / yr
9,800
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Editing
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
- Judgment
- Deadline Management
Helpful certifications
- Editorial internships and portfolio
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
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Work-life balance
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Stress level
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Satisfaction
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Frequently asked questions
How much does an Editor make?
The median pay for an Editor is $77,920 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become an Editor?
The usual entry point is a bachelor's degree. Common majors are English, Journalism, and Communications.
Is Editor a growing field?
The BLS projects slower than average demand for this role, about 1% over the decade, with roughly 9,800 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does an Editor use most?
Common skills for this role are Editing, Reading Comprehension, Writing, Judgment, and Deadline Management.
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.