Sub-editor
Check written text before it is published in newspapers, magazines and on websites.
Also known as: sub editor
About the job
What it's like
You would check written text before it is published in newspapers, magazines and on websites.
You would:
Make sure articles are correct and do not break laws such as libel and copyright
Check any queries with the reporter or journalist
Re-write articles if needed to make them clearer or shorter
Make sure articles follow the house style
Write headlines, captions, short paragraphs which lead into articles and ‘panels’ which break up the text
Make sure articles are in the right place on each page
Use page layout and image editing software like Quark Express, InDesign and Photoshop
Send completed pages to the printers
You would work closely with reporters, editors, designers, production staff and printers.
You would need a good understanding of the laws relating to publishing.
Hours
You will need to be flexible about your working hours, as you could have early starts and late finishes to meet deadlines. The period immediately before going to print (which could be daily, weekly or monthly) will be particularly busy.
Environment
You will usually be based in an open-plan office, which is likely to be busy and noisy most of the time.
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Other careers that you might like
Commissioning editor Copy editor Journalist Newspaper or magazine editor
Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Creative
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- fact checking
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- time management
- attention to detail
- researching
- observation
- innovative
- designing
- creative
- written communication
- working with technology
- cooperating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
English
Media
Modern Studies
Foundation Apprenticeship: Creative and Digital Media
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
Many subeditors have extensive experience as a journalist; they often have a relevant degree (SCQF level 9/10) or postgraduate qualification (SCQF level 11) in journalism. Qualifications in English, advertising, communication, marketing and media may also be helpful.
You can enter journalism National Qualification courses (SCQF 2-6) with four National 4 or National 5 qualifications (SCQF level 4/5).
You can enter Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF level 8) with National 4/5 qualifications and one to two Highers or equivalent qualifications.
To enter a degree (SCQF level 9/10) usually requires National 5 qualifications and a minimum of four Highers at BBBC or above or a relevant HNC/HND.
Entry to a postgraduate qualification (SCQF level 11) requires a relevant degree and may require experience.
Work-based experience and qualifications such as a Diploma in Creative Digital Media (SVQ level 3) or National Progression Award (NPA) in Digital Media Editing (SCQF level 5).
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