Sub-editors check written content before it's published in newspapers, magazines and on websites.
£20,000 Starter
to£60,000 Experienced
37 to 39 variable
evenings / weekends flexibly
You can get into this job through:
You’ll usually need a degree in a relevant subject like:
You can find relevant courses accredited by the National Council for the Training of Journalists.
You can do a postgraduate journalism course if your first degree is not in a related subject.
You'll usually need:
You can work towards this role by starting with an advanced apprenticeship as a publishing assistant.
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
You can work your way into this job by starting as a reporter or editorial assistant with a regional newspaper or magazine. This can help you to build up your experience of proofreading and text editing.
It will also allow you to develop a portfolio of work that you can use to showcase your skills to potential employers.
You'll need to get some experience before applying for your first job in publishing. To build up your experience you can:
This is also a good way to develop contacts, as many jobs are not advertised.
You'll find it helpful to take a sub-editing course if you've already got some experience in journalism, PR or media communications.
Courses are offered by organisations like the National Council for the Training of Journalists, the Society for Editors and Proofreaders and The Publishing Training Centre.
You'll also need to be able to use desktop publishing software for many sub-editing jobs.
You may find it useful to join organisations like the Society of Editors and Professional Publishers Association, for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
You can find out more about becoming a sub-editor from:
You'll need:
Your day-to-day duties may include:
You could work in an office.
With experience, you may be able to progress to production editor or chief sub-editor.
You could also use your journalism experience to move into PR or work as a press or communications officer.
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