Commercial Editor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of digital advertising, the role of commercial editors has never been more important.

As media platforms evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can craft, refine and present compelling commercial content is continuously increasing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a commercial editor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the specifics of this role,
• A recruitment manager creating the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of commercial editing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable commercial editor job description template, designed for easy use on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Commercial Editor Duties and Responsibilities

Commercial Editors are responsible for editing, proofreading, and reviewing content to ensure it aligns with business goals and objectives.

They work in various industries including advertising, media, publishing, and television, and ensure that the commercial content is engaging, clear, and suitable for the target audience.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Review and edit content for grammar, punctuation, spelling, and syntax errors
• Ensure the content aligns with the overall strategy and objectives of the organization
• Work closely with content creators, writers, designers, and marketing teams to develop compelling commercial content
• Implement and monitor content standards and guidelines
• Ensure the consistency of the brand’s voice, tone, and style across all commercial content
• Manage and prioritize multiple projects and meet tight deadlines
• Provide feedback to content creators and writers to help improve their work
• Stay updated with industry trends and developments to ensure content is relevant and competitive
• Ensure all content complies with copyright laws and regulations
• Participate in creative brainstorming sessions to generate ideas for commercial content

 

Commercial Editor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Commercial Editor to oversee our company’s content production.

Your main responsibilities will be to edit and revise content for commercial promotions, marketing materials, and product descriptions.

The successful candidate will be a talented editor with exceptional language skills, a keen eye for detail, and experience in the commercial industry.

Familiarity with SEO principles and digital content is required.

Ultimately, the Commercial Editor’s role is to produce clear, compelling, and innovative content that adheres to our company’s style guidelines and supports our marketing and sales objectives.

 

Responsibilities

• Review and edit content for clarity, grammar, and accuracy
• Collaborate with writers and designers to produce high-quality content
• Ensure that all documents meet established content standards
• Adjust copy as needed to meet brand guidelines and objectives
• Work with marketing and sales teams to understand product and project requirements
• Manage the distribution of content across all channels
• Monitor and analyze performance metrics and suggest improvements
• Stay updated on industry trends and adjust the content strategy as needed

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Editor, Commercial Editor or similar role
• Strong writing and proofreading skills
• Experience with digital publishing and SEO
• Excellent attention to detail
• Ability to work under tight deadlines
• Knowledge of content management systems
• Excellent communication and team management abilities
• BSc degree in Journalism, Marketing, English or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Commercial Editor
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for team meetings or client consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Content Manager or Director of Marketing.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Commercial Editor Do?

A Commercial Editor primarily works within the media, publishing, and advertising industries, although they can also work as freelance individuals or for corporations in various sectors.

They are responsible for reviewing, revising, and editing content produced for commercial purposes.

This can range from print advertisements, digital marketing campaigns, product descriptions, business communications, website content, or even scripts for commercials.

Commercial Editors work closely with content creators, copywriters, graphic designers, and marketing teams to ensure that the content aligns with the branding strategy and meets the desired objectives.

This includes checking for clarity, coherence, and correctness of the content.

They have a keen eye for detail, ensuring that grammar, punctuation, and spelling are accurate.

Furthermore, they ensure that the tone, style, and voice are consistent throughout the content.

Commercial Editors also play a role in shaping the narrative of the commercial content, making sure it is engaging and compelling for the target audience.

They may suggest improvements or changes in the content structure or wording to make it more persuasive or appealing.

In addition, they may be responsible for ensuring that the content complies with legal and ethical standards, as well as adhering to the organization’s policies and guidelines.

This could involve verifying facts and figures, checking for potential copyright issues, or ensuring that the content is culturally sensitive and inclusive.

Finally, a Commercial Editor needs to work under tight deadlines, coordinating with various teams to ensure that the content is ready for publication or broadcast within the scheduled timeframe.

 

Commercial Editor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Commercial Editor should have the qualifications and skills that line up with the position’s requirements, such as:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to efficiently work with clients and team members, deliver feedback, and manage editorial content.
• Experience with editing software and technologies that are often used in the industry, such as Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, and Avid Media Composer.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to assess the quality of content, identify potential improvements, and ensure that the final product meets the desired expectations.
• Keen attention to detail to spot errors in text or video content, as well as to maintain consistency in style and tone.
• Creativity and a strong sense of aesthetics to enhance the visual appeal of the edited material.
• Time management skills to handle multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
• Understanding of storytelling techniques, visual design principles, and the ability to use them in commercial content.
• Knowledge of the market trends and audience preferences to create content that resonates with the target group.

 

Commercial Editor Experience Requirements

Commercial Editors typically need a bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, Communications, or a similar field.

This degree provides them with the basic skills and knowledge they need to excel in their role.

To gain practical experience in commercial editing, candidates often work on student newspapers, magazines, or online publications during their time in college.

Internships at publishing houses, advertising agencies, or media companies can also provide valuable hands-on experience.

Entry-level Commercial Editors may have 1 to 3 years of experience, often obtained through internships or part-time roles in related fields such as content creation, copywriting, or journalism.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are often more adept at managing larger projects and coordinating with other teams.

They typically have developed their editing skills, have a good understanding of commercial writing, and are knowledgeable about industry standards and trends.

Those with more than 5 years of experience likely have some leadership experience and may be well-suited for positions like Lead Commercial Editor or Editorial Director.

They would have a proven track record of managing multiple projects, maintaining brand consistency, and effectively communicating with clients and team members.

 

Commercial Editor Education and Training Requirements

Commercial Editors typically hold a bachelor’s degree in journalism, English, communications, or a related field.

Their education programs should include intensive writing and editing coursework, as well as exposure to a variety of literary styles and genres.

They also benefit from having a strong background in media production, advertising, and digital media, as these are important aspects of commercial editing.

In addition to their formal education, Commercial Editors should have a keen eye for detail, strong proofreading skills, and a solid understanding of the principles of marketing and advertising.

For some positions, particularly those in specialized industries, employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree or additional certification in a related field.

Experience in the industry, such as through internships or previous employment, can also be valuable.

Professional certification programs are available for editors looking to demonstrate their competence and dedication to ongoing learning.

As technology continues to evolve, Commercial Editors should keep up with the latest digital editing tools and software, and may need to complete continuing education courses or training programs to stay current.

 

Commercial Editor Salary Expectations

A Commercial Editor earns an average salary of $58,210 (USD) per year.

The actual income may fluctuate based on factors such as experience, education, the size and type of the employing company, and the geographical location.

 

Commercial Editor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a commercial editor need?

Commercial Editors should possess excellent language and grammar skills, with an eye for detail to identify errors and inconsistencies.

They should have strong decision-making abilities to choose content that aligns with their publication’s style and audience.

Familiarity with editing software and digital editing tools is also crucial.

It’s helpful if they have good interpersonal skills to interact with writers, designers, and other team members.

 

Do commercial editors need a degree?

Most commercial editors have a bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, communication, or a related field.

However, employers often consider candidates with degrees in other areas if they have relevant experience or demonstrated skills in editing.

More important than the degree is the knowledge of the publication’s subject matter, excellent command of language, and proficiency in editing tools and software.

 

What should you look for in a commercial editor resume?

When evaluating a commercial editor’s resume, look for a strong background in editing, preferably in a similar type of publication.

It’s beneficial if they have experience in project management and content management systems.

A good commercial editor should also have knowledge of SEO best practices and be comfortable working with digital media.

Any certifications or additional training in writing, editing, or a related field can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good commercial editor?

A good commercial editor should be meticulous and detail-oriented to spot even the smallest errors.

They need to have excellent judgement to select the most relevant content for their audience.

They should be creative and have a good understanding of the interests and preferences of their readers.

It’s important for them to be adaptable and able to work under pressure to meet strict deadlines.

 

How to become a successful commercial editor?

To become a successful commercial editor, one should strive to stay updated with the latest trends in editing and content production.

Networking with other professionals, joining editor’s associations, and participating in industry events can provide valuable insights and opportunities.

Regularly enhancing your skills through courses or workshops can also boost your career.

Lastly, a successful editor should be able to lead a team, manage multiple projects, and maintain a consistent brand voice across all publications.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricate details of being a commercial editor.

Surprised?

It’s not just about proofreading and editing.

It’s about shaping compelling narratives and driving business success, one word at a time.

With our handy commercial editor job description template and real-life examples, you’re perfectly equipped to make your move.

But why limit yourself?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate guide to creating impeccably tailored job listings or refining your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every word you edit contributes to the larger narrative.

Let’s craft those compelling stories. Together.

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