magazine editor job description education

Magazine Editor Job Description [Updated for 2024]

In the dynamic world of print and digital media, the role of magazine editors is increasingly vital.

As journalism and publishing evolve, the demand for creative and meticulous minds who can curate, refine, and uphold our print and digital content grows stronger.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from a magazine editor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate process of magazine editing,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable magazine editor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Magazine Editor Duties and Responsibilities

Magazine Editors are responsible for the overall content and quality of their publication.

They decide what material will appeal to readers, offer suggestions to staff writers and freelancers, proofread articles, and set the publication schedule.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Conceptualizing ideas for new stories, articles or features
• Deciding on the magazine’s direction and content
• Assigning articles to staff writers and freelance contributors
• Reviewing, editing, and approving articles and layouts
• Ensuring the content aligns with the magazine’s style, editorial policy, and publishing requirements
• Managing the magazine’s production schedule to ensure deadlines are met
• Coordinating with graphic designers to incorporate images, illustrations, and designs that enhance the reading experience
• Communicating with other departments, such as marketing and advertising, to promote the magazine
• Maintaining a good working relationship with writers, photographers, and other contributors

Magazine Editor Job Description Template

We are looking for a talented and creative Magazine Editor to join our team.

The ideal candidate will have strong editing skills, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to work under tight deadlines.

As a Magazine Editor, you will be responsible for planning, coordinating and editing content for publication.

You will also work closely with writers, photographers, and designers to produce high-quality content that engages our readership.

Responsibilities

• Plan and approve assignments for writers and editors
• Control schedules and enforce deadlines (for writers, photographers, designers etc.)
• Oversee proofreading procedures and edit copy when necessary
• Assist in evaluating finalized copy for compliance with policies, style and tone
• Resolve issues as they arise
• Attend events on behalf of the company or editor in chief
• Approve final versions submitted by staff
• Collaborate with the marketing team to develop strategies to increase readership
• Conduct quality control checks to ensure the accuracy of all articles and materials

Qualifications

• Proven experience as managing editor or relevant role
• Exceptional ability in copywriting and editing
• Proficiency in English
• Working knowledge of online platforms like WordPress and SEO concepts
• Abilities in planning and coordinating people and operations
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills
• Outstanding communication and people abilities
• Reliability and efficiency
• BSc/BA in journalism or relevant field
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

Additional Information

• Job Title: Magazine Editor
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Attendance at events and meetings may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Editor-in-Chief or Publishing Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does a Magazine Editor Do?

Magazine Editors are integral members of the publishing industry, working for a range of publications from specialized trade magazines to general interest periodicals.

They oversee the creation, production, and marketing of a magazine’s content.

They are responsible for determining what articles will go into each issue and work closely with writers, photographers, designers, and other editorial staff to ensure that the content aligns with the magazine’s style, tone, and editorial direction.

Magazine Editors review, revise, and approve drafts from writers, often providing detailed feedback to help improve their work.

They also proofread content for spelling, grammar, and factual errors.

In addition to managing content, they also plan future issues and decide on themes or special features.

They may conduct interviews, write articles, or attend industry events.

They work with advertising and sales departments to create engaging content that attracts advertisers and readers.

Furthermore, they may also be involved in the development of the magazine’s digital presence, including content for websites and social media platforms.

Overall, the role of a Magazine Editor is highly collaborative, involving coordination with various departments, and requires creativity, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills.

Magazine Editor Qualifications and Skills

A competent Magazine Editor should possess a combination of creative, technical and interpersonal skills, such as:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills to articulate ideas clearly and effectively to writers, designers, and other team members.
• Leadership and team management skills to supervise and direct the work of editorial staff and contributors.
• Exceptional editing and proofreading skills to ensure high-quality, error-free content.
• Strong aesthetic and creative sense to guide the visual and stylistic direction of the magazine.
• Detail-oriented nature to spot minor mistakes and inconsistencies in drafts and layouts.
• Understanding of audience needs and market trends to curate content that appeals to target readers.
• Strong project management skills to handle multiple assignments and deadlines.
• Basic knowledge of design software like Adobe InDesign or Photoshop to oversee layout and visual elements of the magazine.
• Awareness of media law and ethical guidelines to ensure all content is in compliance with legal restrictions.

Magazine Editor Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for a Magazine Editor role typically need to have a bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, Communications, or a related field.

They should have 1 to 2 years of experience, usually gained through internships or part-time roles at magazines, newspapers, or digital publishing platforms.

Having excellent writing and editing skills, as well as experience in proofreading, researching, and coordinating with writers, photographers, and designers is also an essential requirement for this role.

Mid-level Magazine Editors often have 3 to 5 years of experience in the publishing industry.

They typically have developed their editorial skills and knowledge in entry-level Editor or Assistant Editor roles.

Experience in managing multiple projects simultaneously, meeting deadlines, and familiarity with digital and social media platforms are usually required at this stage.

Senior-level Magazine Editors generally have more than 5 years of experience and often come with a proven track record of successful publications.

These candidates may have leadership experience and are usually responsible for supervising junior editors, making executive decisions about the content of the magazine, and working closely with the publisher and other high-level executives.

Mastering industry-standard software for text editing and layout design, such as Adobe InDesign or QuarkXPress, is also beneficial for those seeking a Magazine Editor role.

Magazine Editor Education and Training Requirements

Magazine Editors typically require a bachelor’s degree in journalism, English, communications, or a related field.

Courses in these programs may include journalism ethics, research methods, journalism writing, and mass media law.

Training in digital media and desktop publishing can also be beneficial for those aiming to work in print magazines.

Many editors begin their careers as writers or reporters.

This experience helps them gain the necessary writing, interviewing, and research skills.

It also helps them build a portfolio of work that can be instrumental in landing an editing position.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree and relevant experience, some positions may require candidates to have a master’s degree, especially for top-level editorial positions or to work in specialized magazines.

There are also certifications available for editors, such as the Certified in Editing certification from the American Society of Magazine Editors.

This is not typically required but can demonstrate a commitment to the profession and proficiency in editing.

Internships at magazines can be particularly helpful for gaining experience and making industry contacts.

They offer hands-on experience in researching, writing, and editing content.

Continual learning and staying updated with the latest trends in the magazine industry, digital media, and publishing technology is also important for a Magazine Editor.

Magazine Editor Salary Expectations

A Magazine Editor earns an average salary of $53,500 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, the size and reputation of the magazine, and the geographical location.

Magazine Editor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a magazine editor need.

A Magazine Editor should possess strong communication and leadership skills, as they often coordinate with various departments and teams.

They should have a keen eye for detail and a strong understanding of the target audience to create content that resonates.

Magazine Editors must also have strong writing and editing skills, and a thorough understanding of the publication process.

Being proficient in design software and having a creative mindset are additional skills that can set a Magazine Editor apart.

Do Magazine Editors need a degree?

While not always a strict requirement, a bachelor’s degree in journalism, English, or a related field is often preferred for a Magazine Editor role.

These programs provide foundational knowledge in writing, editing, ethics, and other aspects of journalism that can be invaluable in a Magazine Editor role.

Experience in editing or journalism is often considered just as, if not more, important than formal education.

What should you look for in a Magazine Editor resume?

A Magazine Editor resume should showcase the candidate’s experience in editing and publishing, particularly in the magazine industry.

Look for evidence of strong leadership and project management skills, as Magazine Editors often oversee multiple projects at once.

Additionally, proficiency in different editing software and tools, and any notable achievements or awards in the field of journalism or editing can be a plus.

What qualities make a good Magazine Editor?

A good Magazine Editor is organized and able to juggle multiple tasks and deadlines at once.

They have strong communication skills, both for guiding their team and for creating compelling content.

They have a deep understanding of their audience and are able to curate content that appeals to them.

Additionally, they have a keen eye for detail and a high standard for accuracy and integrity in reporting.

How important is networking for a Magazine Editor?

Networking is crucial for a Magazine Editor.

Building strong relationships with writers, photographers, advertisers, and industry professionals can help a Magazine Editor stay informed about the latest trends, secure exclusive stories, and ensure the magazine’s success in the competitive publishing industry.

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the exciting realm of what it truly means to be a magazine editor .

And guess what?

It’s not just about proofreading articles.

It’s about shaping the narrative, one word at a time.

With our handy magazine editor job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to take the plunge.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator . It’s your next step to creating captivating job listings or sharpening your resume to excellence.

Every word you edit contributes to the grand narrative.

Let’s shape that story. Together.

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The Editorial Team at InterviewGuy.com is composed of certified interview coaches, seasoned HR professionals, and industry insiders. With decades of collective expertise and access to an unparalleled database of interview questions, we are dedicated to empowering job seekers. Our content meets real-time industry demands, ensuring readers receive timely, accurate, and actionable advice. We value our readers' insights and encourage feedback, corrections, and questions to maintain the highest level of accuracy and relevance.

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How to Become a Magazine Editor

Home / Journalism / How to Become a Magazine Editor

Trending Careers

If you have strong literacy skills, creative vision, and a great work ethic then you might like to become a magazine editor .

Editing a magazine involves far more than looking for grammar errors, an editor must constantly stay true to the central ideology of a publication, while keeping it fresh, interesting, and relevant.

Before you become a magazine editor, it is likely you will spend some time working in a publication beforehand.

An editor’s role is the top job, so you will need a bit of experience first.

Table of Contents

Education Requirements to Become a Magazine Editor

Magazine editor job description, national average salary, what does a magazine editor do, how much do magazine editors make, how much does it cost to become a magazine editor, what is the demand for magazine editors, how long does it take to become a magazine editor.

Being a strong writer and having excellent spelling and grammar skills are all requirements to become a magazine editor.

If you’re in high school, taking English as well as other subjects in the humanities is a good idea.

If you have a school paper then you might like to contribute to, or perhaps even edit, the publication.

You will need a college degree to work as a magazine editor.

A four year bachelors degree with a major in writing, communications, or journalism would be an ideal qualification.

Most editors start their career as journalists or staff writers, while some may begin as an editorial assistant.

While you’re at college you should seek out experience on a school paper.

Also, internships are of great value.

You should try and complete one internship for each year you spend at college.

This may even lead to a full time job later on.

A magazine editor is the force that pulls an issue together.

They will come up with story and feature ideas then delegate them to writers.

They will also analyze story ideas from writers.

The role of a magazine editor is to review and rewrite the work of writers to have it reach the standards and style of a publication.

Some editors even contribute articles themselves.

A magazine editor is also knowledgeable when it comes to the genre of the magazine they edit.

A fashion magazine editor will have a great deal of knowledge regarding this field, for instance.

Some magazine editors oversee production of a magazine issue.

They may attend meetings with magazine management, and keep in close contact with advertorial staff.

They may employ interns and are always on the lookout for new writing talent.

More and more writers for magazine work on a freelance basis.

A magazine editor will also keep in communication with freelance writers, giving writing assignments out or considering story ideas that they may be approached with.

Here are some of the duties of a magazine editor:

• Make sure a magazine is consistent
• Ensure writing style and quality is high
• Edit and rewrite material
• Delegate writing assignments
• Communicate with freelance writers
• Communicate with other magazine staff
• Keep up to date with industry news

Magazine Editor Salary and Career Path

After you complete your studies you’ll be ready for a role as a writer.

Most get their first job in a smaller publication where you’ll be writing and investigating stories, and also be on the hunt for new ideas all the time

Once you have spent a few years as a writer, the time may be right to move into editing.

Look around for a role as an editorial assistant.

If there is a particular genre of magazine that you want to work for, look for this kind of role now.

Working as an editorial assistant will give you the experience you need to get a position as a magazine editor.

While you may not start out working in the magazine of your choice, more experience and skill will lead to roles in more prestigious publications.

The median salary for an editor is $49,000 a year.

However, if you were a magazine editor for a large publication your wage would be much higher than this.

The top 10% of earners make over $95,000 a year.

Some magazine editors will move into other managerial position within a publication, while others will leave their role and take up freelance editing.

Here are some roles similar to that of magazine editor:

• Editorial assistant
• English teacher
• Marketing executive
• Advertising executive

When you become a magazine editor you can look forward to a role that allows you to bring writing and editing talent with managerial skills.

This role offers a good salary, although it may take some work experience to achieve.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main responsibility of a magazine editor is to polish and refine an article.

The typical duties of a magazine editor also include checking spelling, grammar, and punctuation, as well as facts and figures; ensuring that the piece corresponds with the in-house style guides; cutting out the parts that do not fit the purpose of the text; guiding the reading audience’s focus; making sure that the piece looks refined once done, and so on.

There are different types of magazine editors – the copy editor, the managing editor, the engagement editor, and the editor in chief.

The copy editor, for example, checks the facts, spelling, and grammar; writes headlines or introductory paragraphs (if necessary); review photos; arranges the layouts and sidebars…

On average, a magazine editor can make a little less than $53.000 per year in the United States.

In case you decide to choose this career path, you can expect to earn anywhere between $28.000 and 99.000 annually.

The salary would certainly depend on a variety of factors – your education and experience level, the employer, the location and so on.

Magazine editors that work in the District of Columbia, Hawaii, and New York, for example, have the highest average salaries.

An entry-level magazine editor can earn around $13.00 per hour, while a top-level professional with plenty of experience can make $48.00 and more per hour.

The majority of professionals have a bachelor’s degree in journalism, English, communications or a related field.

A year in a university can cost you anywhere between $8.000 and $45.000 (and more); the cost depends on a variety of factors (the books, supplies, and accommodation expenses are not included).

To improve job prospects, you can go for a master’s degree in editing and publishing; that will cost you $6.000-$70.000 per year.

In most cases, classes in editing software and graphic design can be helpful.

Between 2016 and 2026, the magazine editor job market is expected to shrink by 1.4%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

That certainly is slower than the average for all occupations in the United States.

Those who possess technical and internet proficiency will have better chances of getting the highest-paid jobs.

The industry is mainly concentrated in Texas, New York, and California.

It will take you 4 years to obtain a bachelor’s degree, and 1-2 years to earn a master’s degree.

You can consider seeking an internship during your last years in university to get that on-job experience as the majority of employers prefer the candidates to have at least a few years of relevant experience.

There are plenty of computer classes available both online and offline; you can easily find some short-term courses that last for 1.5-2 months.

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Video editors create finished pieces of audio-visual entertainment that sell songs and promote bands.

Travel writers avoid meaningless descriptions and write compelling articles that make the reader hungry for the next detail.

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How to Become a

Magazine editor, quick degree finder, why we love it.

• $64,910 Potential Avg. Salary
• -5.3% Job Growth Rate
• Creativity Focused Career Attribute
• Fast Paced Career Career Attribute

Magazine editors oversee the entire process of publishing a magazine. They choose what articles are published, choose images to accompany articles, and develop themes for special issues. Because of their high involvement in all aspects, magazine editors are directly responsible for their publication’s success.

Recommended Schools

What is a magazine editor.

The following job responsibilities are common for individuals in magazine editor roles:

• Maintain an editorial calendar for a magazine, brainstorm article topics, assign articles to writers, and review and accept/decline pitches from staff and freelance writers
• Ensure that magazine content is fresh, relevant, and of interest to the publication’s target audience
• Proofread and edit the content of submitted articles and make or request needed changes
• Choose what articles are featured, pick images to accompany articles, and assist with determining the overall layout of each issue

A Day in the Life

A magazine editor is responsible for every aspect of publishing an issue of a magazine. The editor creates editorial calendars that consider the timeliness or relevance of articles and sets schedules for special, thematic issues. A magazine editor chooses what articles appear in each issue of a magazine and may assign articles to writers based on the editor’s own ideas, or he/she may review pitches from both staff and freelance writers to discover ideas for future publications.

Before an issue is published, the magazine editor oversees putting every aspect of the magazine together. The editor determines what articles will be featured, what columns to include, and what images will accompany content. The editor also works with the sales and advertising teams to determine ad placement throughout the issue. The goal of the magazine editor is always to increase magazine sales and subscriptions, so their role is to ensure that all content will be compelling to target audiences.

Magazine editors also perform more traditional editing responsibilities. They may review content for grammatical, spelling, and formatting errors, and they’re accountable for ensuring factual accuracy of content published. The magazine editor works with photographers on scheduling sessions for photographing products, models, and featured guests to collect images for use alongside articles. Magazine editors may also be responsible for hiring staff and managing the publication’s budget.

Typical Work Schedule

Magazine editors’ schedules depend on the publications they work for. In many cases, the role requires long hours and overtime as editors oversee a variety of tasks in order to prepare for publication. However, editors of smaller, less frequent publications may work more traditional schedules.

Magazine Editor Specializations

Editors at magazines with small audiences and fewer issues published per year may perform tasks from all specializations. Larger magazines, on the other hand, often split duties among the following specializations:

• Editorial assistants assist with editorial tasks. They may handle random responsibilities assigned by the editor, or they may handle all editorial duties for a subset or section of the magazine.
• Editors oversee the content of an entire magazine. They work with assistant editors to assign and choose topics to appear in issues and work with photographers to collect relevant images.
• Managing editors may conduct any editing responsibilities, but they also have higher-level responsibilities like managing budgets, hiring staff, and managing sales and advertising teams.
• Executive editors focus on increasing magazine revenue. They work with sales teams to increase outlets selling individual issues, with advertising teams to increase the number of ads sold for each issue, and with marketing teams to increase magazine subscription rates.

Career Progression

• Early Career: Writer, Editorial Assistant
• Mid-Career: Editor, Managing Editor
• Late Career: Executive Editor, Editor-in-Chief

Typical Employers

Some of the most profitable magazine publishers include Time Inc., Hearst Magazines, Condé Nast Publications, and Meredith. Magazines that earn the most revenue include People , Sports Illustrated , Us Weekly , Better Homes and Gardens , Time , and Cosmopolitan .

How To Become a Magazine Editor

Most magazine editor jobs require a bachelor’s degree in writing, journalism, or communications. If you’re interested in writing for a niche magazine, it can also be helpful to pursue a double major or minor in the field you’re interested in working in. For example, having a degree in journalism with a minor in fashion or design may be useful if you want to work for a women’s fashion or interior design publication. The alternative can also be useful—a major in a specific field with a minor in writing.

Beyond having a degree, the process of becoming an editor is mostly about getting a job at a magazine and working your way up. Some people get a foot in the door with an internship, some start as writers for the magazine, and some start in advertising or sales positions. Editors must have experience working for magazines, so the best way to work your way up is to choose an inoffensive entry-level position and make strides in that position to prove your abilities.

After securing an internship or other entry-level position, you can work toward becoming an editor by moving into roles with greater responsibility. Individuals in sales positions may be able to pitch ideas and become writers. Writers may be able to work their way into assistant editor positions. Successful editorial assistants will be in line for editor positions when they open, and working as an editorial assistant for some time may also allow you to qualify for magazine editor positions at other publications.

Magazine Editor Salary Data

We’ve provided you the following to learn more about this career. The salary and growth data on this page comes from recently published Bureau of Labor Statistics data while the recommendations and editorial content are based on our research.

National Anual Salary

National hourly wage.

How do Magazine Editor salaries stack up to other jobs across the country? Based on the latest jobs data nationwide, Magazine Editor's can make an average annual salary of $64,910, or $31 per hour. On the lower end, they can make $39,690 or $19 per hour, perhaps when just starting out or based on the state you live in.

Salary Rankings And Facts

#229 nationally for all careers, above average salary nationally, programs and degrees.

Here are the most common degrees for becoming a Magazine Editor. a is usually recommended and specifically a degree or coursework that prepares you for the particular field, see below.

Highest Education Among Magazine Editors

• 4.7 %   Doctorate
• 19.3 %   Masters
• 59 %   Bachelors
• 4.3 %   Associates
• 9.1 %   College
• 3.1 %   High School
• 0.5 %   Less than High School

Job Growth Projections and Forecast

2014 total jobs, 2024 est. jobs, job growth rate, est. new jobs.

How does Magazine Editor job growth stack up to other jobs across the country? By 2024, there will be a change of -6,200 jobs for a total of 111,000 people employed in the career nationwide. This is a -5.3% change in growth over the next ten years, giving the career a growth rate nationwide of Above Average.

Growth Rankings And Facts

#703 nationally for all careers, above avg. growth nationally, what companies employ the most magazine editors, similar careers.

Swimsuit or Lingerie Model

Fashion Designer

Art restorer.

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Magazine Editor Job Description

Magazine editors are communication specialists who plan, manage and produce magazines for readers. They create editorial calendars, develop story ideas, manage writers, edit content and manage the production process by the effective delegation of tasks.

Magazine Editor Job Description Template

We are looking to hire a magazine editor with outstanding writing, editing and creative skills. Magazine editors are expected to possess fantastic planning, organizational and staff management skills with the ability to work comfortably under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

To ensure success, magazine editors should demonstrate a superb command of English with a keen interest in shaping a publication to distinguish the content to its target audience. Top candidates will display a great understanding of target audiences, and exhibit remarkable negotiation and decision-making skills.

Magazine Editor Responsibilities:

• Generate story ideas for writing staff.
• Manage writing staff and freelance content producers.
• Approve content, appearance and layout of featured articles.
• Oversee photography, design and artwork to be used in the publication.
• Meet with writers and artists to discuss features, layouts and artwork.
• Comply with media law and industry regulations.
• Send regular briefs to writers that include deadlines, writing style and fees.
• Network actively at industry events.
• Commission articles from writing staff and freelance content producers.
• Proofread, edit and rewrite articles to meet publication standards.
• Attend photo shoots.
• Actively raise the profile of the publication.
• Assist all staff to meet deadlines.

Magazine Editor Requirements:

• Bachelors degree in communications/journalism or related (essential).
• 3 years of work experience as a magazine editor.
• Demonstrable experience in producing relevant content to target audiences.
• Strong writing, editing and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to nurture long-term relationships with key publication influencers.
• Analytical thinker with strong conceptual and research skills.
• Good understanding of Content Management Systems (CMS).
• Natural leader who displays strong decision-making and attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent negotiation skills.
• Ability to understand and influence target audiences.

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Editor job description, copy editor job description, editor interview questions, content editor interview questions, magazine editor interview questions, editing and publishing job boards.

4 minute read

Magazine Editor Job Description, Career as a Magazine Editor, Salary, Employment

Definition and nature of the work, education and training requirements, getting the job.

Education and Training: College

Salary: Median—$43,620 per year

Employment Outlook: Good

Definition and Nature of the Work

In general, magazines fall into two categories: business and professional and those intended for the general public. A magazine's success depends largely on the work of its editors.

There are different kinds of editors on a magazine, and their specific duties vary. On large magazines, the executive editor or editor in chief sees that the company's editorial policy is carried out. This job is primarily administrative, but the whole magazine—text, pictures, captions, and headings—is the final responsibility of the editor in chief. On most magazines the chief editor also expresses the magazine's point of view through editorials, which are short essays on subjects of current reader interest.

Most large publications hire managing editors to take charge of getting each issue out on time. These editors look after the day-to-day work of selecting articles, arranging copy, and supervising other editors. Sometimes they are put in charge of a bureau or branch office in another location such as New York or California.

The editorial staff on a magazine may include senior editors, associate editors, assistant editors, and editorial assistants. These editors may have different job titles, but their basic responsibility is selecting and editing articles or stories for each issue of the magazine.

In general, editors do not write articles. Instead, they form and shape the content of an article, which is usually written by staff writers or freelancers. Editors revise articles and may write headlines and captions and review page proofs. They must also be sure that the articles are the right length. If a story is too long, for instance, it must be cut very carefully to fit the space available. In addition, editors plan the artwork, illustrations, and photos that go with each story. They work closely with the art and production departments to prepare and approve page layouts that carry out the magazine's visual or graphic style. To help them, editors have editorial assistants who may answer letters, do research, or screen manuscripts that arrive at the magazine. When the editor finishes with an article, it goes to a copy editor, who reviews, corrects, and tweaks the article to fit the magazine's style.

On smaller magazines, which have smaller staffs, the executive or chief editor may perform a variety of editorial tasks, such as writing, editing, and copyediting, besides supervising the staff and keeping the magazine on schedule. In a small company each staff member has multiple jobs.

Editors discuss and review the schedule for an upcoming publication. (Photograph by Kelly A. Quin. Thomson Gale. Reproduced by permission.)

Education and Training Requirements

Most magazine editors have a college degree in either English or journalism. Some have a master's degree. Other college majors are acceptable—especially for technical or special-interest magazines—although courses in English and journalism are also necessary. A strong background in liberal arts is preferred. Those who want to be editors should have a broad range of knowledge and keep up with current events.

Advanced computer skills and a good sense of language and grammar are necessary in the field of magazine editing. High school and college experience in journalism can help a prospective candidate land a job. Any specialized knowledge can be useful in getting a start with a magazine in a specific field. In most cases training for magazine editors is informal and occurs on the job.

Getting the Job

Magazine editors generally enter the field as copy editors or editorial assistants. Some people get jobs as magazine editors after spending time as editorial workers for small newspapers. Others become magazine editors after working in the field in which the magazine specializes. For instance, an engineer may become an editor for a professional engineering magazine.

College placement offices sometimes help graduates find entry-level editorial positions. Two helpful tools in finding magazines in various fields—the Literary Market Place (LMP) and the Gale Directory of Publications and Broadcast Media —can be found at most medium- to large-sized public libraries. In addition, Internet job sites and the classified sections of newspapers and trade magazines such as Publishers Weekly list job openings.

Advancement Possibilities and Employment Outlook

Experience and talent are the most important qualities in determining advancement. The employment outlook for magazine editors is good. There will always be stiff competition for jobs on popular and national magazines. With the rise of online publications, however, there are growing opportunities on the Internet.

Working Conditions

The editorial offices of magazines can be very busy places. The pressures of the job are great, and tension increases with the approach of each deadline. Magazine editors work with many different kinds of people and must coordinate the efforts of writers, photographers, and other editors. The job also carries responsibility—not just to the magazine but also to the reading public. Each fact must be carefully checked before publication.

Editors usually work a forty-hour week; however, as deadlines approach or during very busy times, overtime and weekend work are often required.

Earnings and Benefits

Salaries vary considerably in the field of magazine editing. The editor's job level and experience and the type and location of the magazine all affect wages. Several surveys conducted in 2004 indicate that magazine editors earned a median yearly income of $43,620. Managing and executive editors earned much more.

Where to Go for More Information

American Business Media 675 Third Ave. New York, NY 10017-5704 (212) 661-6360 http://www.americanbusinessmedia.com/

City and Regional Magazine Association 4929 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 428 Los Angeles, CA 90010 (323) 937-5514 http://www.citymag.org/

Magazine Publishers of America 810 Seventh Ave., 24th Fl. New York, NY 10019 (212) 872-3700 http://www.magazine.org/

Benefits for magazine editors vary with each magazine. They may include paid vacations, medical coverage, and various retirement plans.

Additional topics

• Newspaper Editor Job Description, Career as a Newspaper Editor, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job
• Copy Editor Job Description, Career as a Copy Editor, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

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What is a Magazine Editor ?

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Magazine Editor Job Description Template

Job overview, magazine editor responsibilities & duties.

• Lead the editorial vision and content strategy for the magazine
• Source and commission articles from a diverse range of writers
• Edit and review all content for accuracy, tone, and style
• Manage the production schedule and ensure that deadlines are met
• Work with the design team to ensure that content is visually appealing and engaging
• Engage with the magazine's audience through social media and other channels
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies to bring new ideas to the publication

Magazine Editor Qualifications & Skills

• Advanced degree in Journalism, Communication, or related field
• Extensive experience in magazine publishing or a related industry
• Proficiency with editorial software and content management systems
• Strong portfolio showcasing exceptional editorial skills
• Proven track record of managing and leading editorial teams
• Deep understanding of the publication’s target audience and market trends
• Excellent organizational and project management skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
• Creative mindset with a strong attention to detail
• Experience with digital publishing and online content strategies
• Familiarity with social media platforms and audience engagement strategies
• Knowledge of SEO best practices and how to implement them in content
• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, English, Communications, or a related field
• Several years of experience in editorial roles within publishing
• Proficiency in editing and proofreading
• Strong writing and storytelling skills
• Ability to multitask and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Excellent time management and organizational abilities
• Familiarity with the magazine’s industry and editorial standards
• Experience with layout design and publication software
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Ability to make informed editorial decisions and provide constructive feedback
• Knowledge of legal and ethical issues in publishing
• Experience in budgeting and financial management for editorial projects

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Magazine Editor Job Description Template

A Magazine Editor is responsible for planning, developing and coordinating the content of a magazine. They collaborate with writers, artists and other professionals to produce each issue. Editors also typically perform some administrative tasks, such as budgeting and scheduling.

Magazine Editor Job Responsibilities

• Oversee the production of the magazine, from start to finish
• Manage and motivate a team of writers, editors, designers, etc.
• Come up with fresh and innovative ideas for each issue
• Ensure that the magazine meets deadlines
• Deal with advertisers and other external partners
• liaise with the printing company
• Develop and oversee the editorial content of the magazine
• Work with writers, illustrators, and photographers to produce high-quality content
• Plan and execute promotional strategies to increase readership and circulation
• Coordinate with the business side of the magazine to ensure timely production and delivery
• Ensure that the magazine adheres to its editorial standards and policies

Magazine Editor Job Skills & Qualifications Needed

• Education: A bachelor's degree is typically required for a magazine editor position.
• Skills: Excellent writing, editing, and communication skills are essential for this role. Magazine editors must be able to work well under deadlines and handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Strong research and organizational skills are also important.

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