What are the job roles and responsibilities of an Editorial Assistant?

Editors begin their careers as editorial assistants, progressing through the editorial ranks once relevant skills and experience is gained. Work includes:

• writing and editing copies

• proofreading 

• researching images

• planning projects

• researching and commissioning features 

• liaising with authors, marketing staff and printers.

Employers of editorial assistants

• Publishing houses

• Magazines

• Local and national newspapers

• Press agencies

• Academic journals

Qualifications required

You don’t need a degree to get into editorial, entry into the profession without a degree is unusual, although a relevant qualification such as journalism or English can help. Previous writing or editing experience is essential.

Key skills for editorial assistants

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Adaptability

• Ability to work well under pressure 

• Proficiency with IT packages

• Proofreading skills