Editorial Intern

Career Guide

An Editorial Intern supports a publishing team by assisting with content preparation, research, proofreading, and production coordination. The role is designed to build foundational skills in writing, editing, and newsroom or publishing workflows while contributing to day to day output.

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Key Responsibilities

Proofread articles for grammar, spelling, and consistency
Research facts, sources, and background information
Format content to match publication style guidelines
Write short items such as blurbs, captions, and summaries
Coordinate with writers and editors to track drafts and deadlines
Prepare interview notes and transcription when needed
Support content uploads and basic content management tasks
Organize editorial calendars and maintain documentation
Assist with image selection and caption accuracy
Contribute ideas for story angles and audience relevance

Top Skills for Success

Proofreading

Copy Editing

Writing

Research

Fact Checking

Time Management

Attention to Detail

Communication

Feedback Incorporation

Content Management Systems

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Editorial Assistant

Assistant Editor

Content Coordinator Production Assistant Copy Editor

Junior Writer

Transition Opportunities

Staff Writer Associate Editor

Newsletter Editor

Content Editor

Social Media Editor

SEO Editor

Content Strategist

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

AP StyleHeadline WritingInterviewingSource EvaluationSEO BasicsAnalytics LiteracyWorkflow TrackingStakeholder Management

Development SuggestionsBuild a small portfolio with before and after edits, published clips, and clear writing samples. Practice editing to a style guide, learn basic SEO and analytics concepts, and ask for structured feedback on accuracy, clarity, and speed.

Market Intelligence Report

Editorial Intern is part of the Journalism & Editorial category.Explore our market intelligence report to see how AI and hiring demand are shifting for these roles.

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Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry Level15 to 22 per hour

Mid LevelNot typical for internship roles

Senior LevelNot typical for internship roles

Growth Trend

Steady demand with strong competition. Opportunities rise around seasonal internship cycles and increase with digital publishing, newsletters, and branded content teams.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

Condé NastHearstVox MediaDotdash MeredithThe New York TimesThe Washington PostPenguin Random HouseHarperCollinsHachette Book GroupMacmillan Publishers

Industry Sectors

Digital MediaNewspapersMagazinesBook PublishingEducation PublishingNonprofit MediaCorporate CommunicationsMarketing Agencies

Recommended Next Steps

Create a portfolio with 6 to 10 writing samples and editing samples

Learn one style guide and apply it consistently in your work

Volunteer to own a small recurring task such as compiling briefs or maintaining the editorial calendar

Ask your editor for weekly feedback and track improvements

Practice writing headlines and short summaries for existing articles

Learn a content management system and publish a few practice posts in a sandbox environment

Network with editors through informational interviews and campus or community publications

Apply to roles that lead directly to full time work such as Editorial Assistant and Junior Writer