Editors
O*NET 27-3041.00 · SOC 27-3041
Editor is a risky career choice. Median pay is $78k a year with -1.1% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 7,900 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Review and edit content for clarity and accuracy
- →Manage editorial calendars
- →Assign stories to writers
- →Ensure brand voice consistency
- →Fact-check and proofread final drafts
Education & How to Get In
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Editor roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Creative, studios, agencies, or remote
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Editor involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Editor?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Editor Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Editors is projected to decline 1.1% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·48% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·Industry sector with high AI adoption trajectory
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Editor make?
The median Editor earns $78k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Editor jobs?
Our model puts Editor at 38 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 48% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace; industry sector with high AI adoption trajectory.
Is Editor a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 1.1% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 7,900 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Editor?
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Editor roles, and relevant internships matter as much as the subject.
How long does it take to become an Editor?
Typically about four years, typically a bachelor's degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 4 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Editor career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
Take the assessment →Free to take · Matches $9 · No account required · 7 minutes