How to become editorseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$77,920
25th–75th pct. $57,300–$106,100
Top pay (est.)
$199,800
Top 10% $153,700
Pay in 5 years
$86,900est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$96,900est.
$83,300–$112,500
Outlook score
42/100
★★☆☆☆ Below average
AI replacement risk
68%
High
Job growth (10 yr)
−1.1%
7,900 openings / yr
How to become editors
Typical education
Bachelor's degree
BLS
Related experience
Less than 5 years
On-the-job training
None
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Editors
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Communicating with People Outside the OrganizationOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkInterpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsGetting InformationCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesThinking CreativelyIdentifying Objects, Actions, and Events
Important abilities
Written ExpressionWritten ComprehensionNear VisionOral ExpressionOral ComprehensionFluency of Ideas
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 4 — considerable preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★★☆☆ Moderate (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as editors
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.