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If you’ve Googled “managing editor job description,” you’ve probably seen dozens of articles that all look the same: a wall of bullet points, generic wording, and zero insight into what actually makes a great managing editor want to apply.
The problem?
Those posts might check the “SEO” box, but they don’t help you hire better. They’re so dry and templated that they could apply to any company, in any industry, for any role — which means they don’t connect with the right candidates.
If you actually want to attract high-quality managing editors — the kind who can lead editorial strategy, inspire a team, and protect your brand voice — you need more than a copy-paste template. You need a job post that’s clear, human, and written to connect with real people.
In this guide, we’ll walk through exactly how to do that:
- A plain-English definition of the role.
- Two ready-to-use templates (experienced hire + willing-to-train).
- A breakdown of why they work.
- Common mistakes to avoid.
- Extra tips to help your post stand out.
And if you haven’t read it yet, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ — because once you see why generic posts fail to convert, you’ll never go back.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
What the Managing Editor Role Actually Is
A managing editor is the bridge between your content vision and the team that brings it to life. They don’t just “check for typos” — they set editorial strategy, maintain quality standards, and make sure every piece of content aligns with your brand’s voice and goals.
Think of them as both a leader and a quality gatekeeper. They oversee writers, editors, and contributors, manage content calendars, and ensure deadlines are met without sacrificing quality. They’re also the ones who keep your messaging consistent across platforms — whether it’s a blog post, social media update, or email campaign.
Great managing editors combine editorial judgment, organizational skills, and people management. They know how to balance creativity with clarity, and they can spot both a brilliant idea and a subtle factual error in the same read-through.
In short:
A managing editor makes sure your content isn’t just published — it’s purposeful, polished, and on-brand.
Two Great Managing Editor Job Description Templates
Version 1 — Job Description for Experienced Managing Editor
📌 Job Title: Managing Editor — Lead Editorial Strategy at ClarityWorks Media
💼 Type: Full-Time | Remote-First (HQ: Austin, TX)
💰 Salary: $95,000–$125,000/year (based on experience & location)
🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri | Flexible hours with core collaboration window
🎥 A Quick Word From the Hiring Manager
3-minute Loom from our Editor-in-Chief on what success looks like in this role: [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are
ClarityWorks Media is a modern B2B content studio that helps SaaS, fintech, and e-commerce brands turn complex ideas into content that wins trust and drives pipeline. Our network of newsletters, research briefs, and YouTube explainers reaches over 500,000 professionals each month. We’re known for rigorous editorial standards, practical insight, and clean storytelling that moves the needle.
The Role
We’re hiring a Managing Editor to own our editorial roadmap, lead a distributed team of writers and editors, and ensure every piece we publish is accurate, insightful, and unmistakably on-brand. You’ll partner with marketing and design to ship multi-channel content that converts, and you’ll use performance data to continually raise the bar.
What You’ll Do
- Build and execute the quarterly editorial strategy tied to business goals.
- Own the content calendar across blog, newsletter, video scripts, and reports.
- Line-edit and final-approve high-visibility pieces for clarity, accuracy, and voice.
- Recruit, coach, and review a bench of staff writers and freelancers.
- Partner with marketing on campaigns, launches, and distribution plans.
- Track content performance (CTR, time on page, sign-ups) and iterate.
What We’re Looking For
- 5+ years in editorial roles; 2+ years managing writers/editors.
- Impeccable editing chops and a sharp sense for narrative and structure.
- Strong grasp of SEO fundamentals and digital publishing workflows.
- Proven project management across multiple deadlines and stakeholders.
- Comfortable giving/receiving editorial feedback and mentoring talent.
- Bachelor’s in Journalism/Communications or equivalent experience.
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage (company-subsidized).
- 401(k) with employer match.
- 20 PTO days + 10 company holidays + winter shutdown.
- Annual learning stipend ($1,500) for courses, books, and events.
- Home office stipend + refreshed laptop every 3 years.
- Paid parental leave (12 weeks).
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You’ll shape the editorial voice for a brand with real reach and high standards.
- You’ll lead a talented, low-ego team that cares deeply about craft.
- Your work will be measured, appreciated, and iterated on with data—no vanity metrics.
- Clear growth path to Director of Editorial for the right leader.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen.io application link]
We evaluate candidates with a short skills exercise (editing pass + strategy memo). WorkScreen scores and ranks all submissions so we can review fairly and respond quickly.
Version 2 — Job Description For Entry Level Managing Editor (Willing to Train)
📌 Job Title: Managing Editor (Willing to Train) — Grow Into Editorial Leadership
💼 Type: Full-Time | Remote-First (HQ: Austin, TX)
💰 Salary: $60,000–$80,000/year (based on experience & location)
🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri | Flexible hours with core collaboration window
🎥 A Quick Word From the Hiring Manager
2-minute Loom on the learning plan, mentorship, and first-90-day goals: [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are
ClarityWorks Media is a B2B content studio serving fast-growing SaaS and fintech brands. Our work spans newsletters, reports, and video explainers that reach 500,000+ operators and executives monthly. We believe great editors are grown, not just hired—so we invest heavily in training, feedback, and repeatable systems.
The Role
This is an early-career pathway into editorial leadership. You’ll start by supporting the content calendar, performing line edits, and coordinating with writers and designers. With mentorship from our senior editors, you’ll take on more ownership—moving from editing and coordination to planning and leading campaigns.
What You’ll Do
- Assist with the editorial calendar and content workflows.
- Line-edit drafts for clarity, accuracy, and tone; proof final copy.
- Coordinate assignments, deadlines, and assets with contributors.
- Help track performance and propose improvements.
- Learn to plan and ship multi-channel editorial campaigns.
What We’re Looking For
- Strong writing/editing skills and attention to detail (please include samples).
- Excellent organization and communication; calm under deadlines.
- Curiosity about B2B topics and eagerness to learn editorial strategy.
- Experience with CMS tools (Webflow/WordPress) is a plus—not a must.
- Degree optional; portfolio and potential matter more.
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage (company-subsidized).
- 401(k) with employer match.
- 18 PTO days + 10 company holidays + winter shutdown.
- Annual learning stipend ($1,000) + dedicated mentorship plan.
- Home office stipend + laptop provided.
- Paid parental leave (8 weeks).
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You’ll get hands-on coaching from seasoned editors and a clear growth plan.
- You’ll build real editorial judgment by shipping high-impact pieces weekly.
- Your ideas will be heard—small team, big ownership.
- A realistic path to full Managing Editor responsibilities within 9–18 months.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen.io application link]
We use a short exercise (light edit + headline pack) to assess skills and potential. WorkScreen scores and ranks submissions so promising candidates don’t get lost in the pile.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Breakdown of Why These Managing Editor Job Posts Work
1. Clear, Specific Titles
Both posts avoid vague titles like “Managing Editor” alone. Instead, they add context — the company name, the nature of the work, and even growth positioning in the entry-level version. This instantly filters in relevant candidates and filters out those who aren’t a fit.
2. Video Element Adds Personality
Placing a Loom/YouTube video link right before “Who We Are” turns a static listing into a personal invitation. It humanizes the company, lets candidates see and hear a leader, and conveys culture far faster than text alone. This is especially powerful in remote-first hiring where face-to-face impressions are rare early on.
3. Warm, Context-Rich Intros
Instead of leading with a generic “We’re hiring a managing editor…,” the “Who We Are” section tells a story: the audience reach, the company’s specialty, and its reputation. The entry-level version adds an intentional “we grow editors” positioning to appeal to ambitious learners.
4. Transparent Salary & Work Setup
Listing the pay range and location type (remote-first with HQ) upfront builds trust and respects candidates’ time. It also signals modern hiring practices — serious applicants know what to expect before they apply.
5. Detailed, Outcome-Focused Responsibilities
In both versions, the responsibilities aren’t just tasks — they tie to outcomes. For example, “Line-edit and final-approve high-visibility pieces for clarity, accuracy, and voice” tells the candidate what the result of their work should be, not just the action.
6. Clear, Role-Specific Requirements
The experienced version calls for editorial leadership and SEO knowledge, while the entry-level version focuses on core skills and potential. This ensures each post targets the right slice of the talent pool without discouraging the wrong candidates unnecessarily.
7. Separate Perks & Benefits From the Cultural Pitch
By splitting “Perks & Benefits” from “Why This Role Is a Great Fit,” the posts cater to two different decision factors:
- Perks & Benefits satisfy practical needs (healthcare, PTO, stipends).
- Why This Role Is a Great Fit sells the emotional/career value (impact, growth path, ownership).
This makes each section more digestible and persuasive.
8. Respectful, Transparent Hiring Process
Both versions make the application process clear, including the fact that WorkScreen will be used for skill-based evaluation. This shows candidates that hiring decisions will be merit-based, fast, and fair — a huge differentiator in competitive hiring.
9. Human, Confident Tone
Throughout, the language avoids corporate jargon and instead uses direct, engaging phrasing (“small team, big ownership,” “no vanity metrics,” “we grow editors”). This conversational tone connects with the kind of thoughtful, engaged professionals you want to attract.
Example of a Bad Managing Editor Job Description (And Why It Fails)
❌ Bad Job Post Example
Job Title: Managing Editor
Company: ClarityWorks Media
Type: Full-Time
Location: Remote
Deadline: June 30, 2025
Job Summary
ClarityWorks Media is looking to hire a managing editor to oversee the editorial team. The ideal candidate will coordinate publishing schedules, review content, and ensure deadlines are met.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage editorial calendar.
- Review and edit articles.
- Coordinate with writers.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, English, or similar field.
- 3–5 years of editing experience.
- Good communication skills.
How to Apply
Send your CV and cover letter to hr@clarityworksmedia.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Short
- Generic Job Title
Just “Managing Editor” without context. No mention of industry, growth opportunity, or company specialty — fails to attract the right applicants. - No Hook or Culture
There’s no “Who We Are” section that paints a picture of the company or its audience. Candidates get no sense of mission or values. - Bland, Uninspired Summary
The opening lines are lifeless. They state what’s happening (“looking to hire”) but give no reason why the role matters or why the company is worth joining. - Responsibilities Too Vague
Tasks like “manage editorial calendar” could apply to hundreds of roles. There’s no detail on outcomes, scope, or expectations. - Requirements Too Narrow and Rigid
Lists degree as a must-have without flexibility. Omits desirable qualities like leadership ability, strategic thinking, or content performance experience. - No Salary or Perks
Candidates have no idea about compensation, benefits, or flexibility. This signals outdated hiring practices and wastes time for both sides. - Cold, Dismissive Hiring Process
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels impersonal and unwelcoming. It gives no transparency on timelines or next steps.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Managing Editor Job Post Stand Out
If you want to take your Managing Editor job description from “good” to “unmissable,” add these advanced touches. They not only attract the right candidates but also help build trust and strengthen your employer brand.
1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice for Applicants
Candidates are increasingly aware of job scams and misuse of personal data. Address this head-on to build confidence.
“We take the security and privacy of all job applicants very seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process.”
2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Work-life balance is a top decision factor. Including specific leave or flex options shows you respect your team’s time.
Example:
“Enjoy 20 days of PTO, plus company holidays, and flexible hours so you can work when you’re most productive.”
3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
For a role like Managing Editor, career development is a major draw. Call out your investment in learning.
Example:
“We invest in your growth with a $1,500 annual learning stipend, editorial leadership training, and a clear path to Director of Editorial.”
4. Add a Loom or YouTube Video From the Hiring Manager
Static text is forgettable — video is personal. Let candidates see and hear from their potential leader.
What to include in the video:
- A brief intro to you and your role.
- What excites you about this hire.
- A 60-second overview of your editorial philosophy and the company’s culture.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Show Off Employee Testimonials
Include a short quote from a current editor or writer about what it’s like to work at your company.
Example:
“At ClarityWorks, I’ve grown more in 18 months than I did in my previous 5 years. Leadership listens, and we publish work we’re proud of.” — Senior Editor
6. Include Your Hiring Process Upfront
Transparency reduces application anxiety and keeps high-quality candidates engaged. Even a simple 3-step outline works:
- Submit your application via WorkScreen.
- Complete a short editing and strategy task.
- Meet the team for a culture and skills interview.
A Word of Caution on Using AI for Job Descriptions
AI tools are everywhere now, and yes — they can help you write faster. But if you blindly use AI to generate a Managing Editor job description, you’ll likely end up with something generic, lifeless, and ineffective at attracting top-tier candidates.
Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
- You’ll get generic fluff — the kind of bullet points candidates have seen a thousand times.
- It attracts the wrong candidates — people skimming and mass-applying to anything vaguely relevant.
- It erases your brand voice — a Managing Editor role demands personality and clarity, yet AI defaults to corporate-safe language.
- It hurts your employer brand — a generic post makes you look like a generic company.
Remember: a job post is often the first impression a candidate gets. If it feels templated and cold, you’ve lost them before they even click “Apply.”
The Wrong Way to Use AI
“Write me a Managing Editor job description for my company.”
This will give you a surface-level, cookie-cutter post that could apply to any business. It will lack your company’s culture, values, and differentiators — and top candidates will spot that immediately.
The Right Way to Use AI
Come prepared with your own raw ingredients. Feed AI the details only you can provide, and let it help polish, organize, and refine.
Here’s an example of a strong prompt:
“Help me write a Managing Editor job post for ClarityWorks Media, a B2B content studio serving SaaS and fintech brands. We’re hiring to lead our editorial team, manage content strategy, and ensure quality across newsletters, blogs, and video scripts. Our culture is collaborative, low-ego, and data-informed. The ideal candidate is an experienced editor who can mentor writers, optimize content for impact, and maintain our brand voice. We offer $95,000–$125,000/year, 20 PTO days, flexible hours, and a $1,500 learning stipend. Our hiring process includes a short editing task via WorkScreen, a video call with the Editor-in-Chief, and final references. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes]. Please make the tone human and inspiring, not corporate.”
By giving AI the specifics, you’ll get a draft that feels tailored, not recycled. Then, use your own judgment to edit and inject even more personality.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Copy-Paste Managing Editor Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
Job Title: Managing Editor — Lead Our Content Vision at [Company Name]
💼 Location: Remote (HQ: [City, State])
🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
💰 Salary Range: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year
🎥 Meet Your Future Boss
2–3 minute Loom/YouTube on what success looks like in this role: [Insert Video Link]
Who We Are
[Company Name] is a [brief description of your company: e.g., B2B software company / media brand / e-commerce leader]. Our content (newsletters, articles, and videos) reaches [X] readers/viewers each month across [channels/platforms]. We’re known for [what you’re known for: rigorous analysis / practical storytelling / trusted insights] and we care deeply about craft, clarity, and results.
Why We’re Hiring
We’re growing and need a Managing Editor who can lead the editorial team, raise the quality bar, and keep our voice consistent across every channel. You’ll shape strategy, mentor writers, and ship content that moves the needle.
What You’ll Do
- Build and manage the editorial calendar across [channels].
- Line-edit and final-approve high-impact pieces for clarity, accuracy, and voice.
- Coach writers/editors and develop contributor guidelines.
- Collaborate with marketing/design on campaigns and launches.
- Track performance ([examples: CTR, time on page, sign-ups]) and iterate.
Requirements
- [4–6] years in editorial roles; [1–3] years leading or mentoring others.
- Excellent editing, headline writing, and story-shaping skills.
- Familiarity with SEO and digital publishing workflows (e.g., [CMS tools]).
- Strong project management across multiple deadlines and stakeholders.
- Portfolio with [X–Y] samples showcasing editing or leadership impact.
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage ([company % or subsidy]).
- [401(k) / Pension] with [match %].
- [X] PTO days + [Y] company holidays + [optional: winter break].
- Annual learning stipend [$Z] for courses, books, and events.
- Home office stipend [$A] + company laptop.
- Paid parental leave ([weeks]).
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You’ll shape the editorial voice for a brand with real reach and standards.
- You’ll lead a talented, low-ego team that cares about craft and results.
- Clear growth path to [next role, e.g., Director of Editorial] for the right leader.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen.io link]
We use a short skills exercise (editing pass + strategy memo) to ensure a fair, skills-first review and fast responses.
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format (Generic)
Job Title: Managing Editor — [Company Name]
💼 Location: Remote (HQ: [City, State])
🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
💰 Salary Range: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year
Job Brief
[Company Name] is seeking a Managing Editor to lead editorial strategy, manage writers and editors, and maintain high-quality content across [newsletters/blogs/reports/video scripts]. This role reports to [title, e.g., Editor-in-Chief / Head of Content] and is responsible for standards, workflow, and performance.
Responsibilities
- Own the editorial calendar and production workflows.
- Edit, approve, and publish content aligned to brand voice and goals.
- Manage and mentor staff writers, editors, and freelancers.
- Partner with [marketing/product/design] on campaigns and distribution.
- Track performance metrics ([list examples]) and implement improvements.
Requirements
- [5+] years in editorial roles; [2+] years in a leadership capacity.
- Strong editing and storytelling skills with an eye for structure and accuracy.
- Knowledge of SEO, analytics, and [CMS tools].
- Ability to manage multiple deadlines and stakeholders.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience ([preferred/required]).
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage ([details]).
- [401(k)/Pension] with [match %].
- [X] PTO days + [Y] holidays + [optional: winter break].
- Learning stipend [$Z] + professional development opportunities.
- Home office stipend [$A] + company laptop.
- Paid parental leave ([weeks]).
Application Process
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen.io link]
Short skills assessment ([e.g., editing exercise + headline pack]) →
→ references.
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Phase of Hiring
Writing a great Managing Editor job description is only the first step.
The real challenge? Quickly identifying your best candidates without drowning in generic applications.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
With WorkScreen, You Can:
✔ Quickly spot your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✔ Assess real skills in one click
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
✔ Eliminate low-effort applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
The Result
You spend less time sifting through résumés and more time engaging with the people who can actually do the job — confidently, quickly, and without costly hiring mistakes.
Create your Managing Editor job post, share it in minutes, and let WorkScreen handle the evaluation so you can hire right, fast, and smart.
FAQ
An editor typically focuses on reviewing and refining individual pieces of content for clarity, grammar, tone, and accuracy. A managing editor, on the other hand, oversees the entire editorial process — from planning and assigning content to managing deadlines, maintaining brand voice, and supervising editorial staff. In short, editors polish the work, while managing editors direct the workflow.
Beyond strong editing skills, a great managing editor should have:
- Leadership ability to manage and mentor writers and editors.
- Strategic thinking to align content plans with company goals.
- Organizational skills to handle multiple deadlines and projects.
- Communication skills to collaborate across teams and give constructive feedback.
- Analytical mindset to assess content performance and improve it.
In the United States, the average salary for a managing editor typically ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 per year, depending on factors such as experience, company size, industry, and location. Senior managing editors or those in high-demand sectors can earn upwards of $120,000.
The editor-in-chief sets the overall editorial vision and direction for the publication or brand, while the managing editor focuses on executing that vision day-to-day. The managing editor handles scheduling, team management, and content flow, whereas the editor-in-chief makes high-level strategic decisions.
