Food Editor: 4 Responsibilities of a Food Editor

A food editor writes and edits food-related features, articles, and reviews for print publications or digital media outlets. Food editors work in food magazines or the food section of magazines, newspapers, and websites. Food editors contribute to the food writing for their publication and assign articles to a staff of food journalists, restaurant critics, or freelance writers based on their subject matter expertise. The average food editor salary varies depending on skill level, location, and years of experience, as well as whether it’s a full-time or part-time role.

Food editors review new restaurants, write about different types of food, and oversee members of the food team, including in-house food reviewers and editorial assistants. The responsibilities of a food editor include:

1. 1. Assigning articles: Editors assign articles to the food writers or freelancers for their newspaper, magazine, or website. Assignments include reviews of new restaurants to pieces that evaluate new food products and kitchen tools.
2. 2. Attending food-related events: Whether based in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, or another city, food editors serve as the face of their publication or website at food-related events in their areas. This includes attending charity events at local restaurants, visiting new restaurants, and interviewing local chefs.
3. 3. Editing articles: Food editors work with the copy editor, managing editor, associate editors, and senior food editor (if applicable) to ensure articles and reviews are well-written, delivered on time, and adhere to the editorial standards set by the publication’s editor in chief.
4. 4. Writing articles: While not every food editor has time to write, this may also be a part of their duties. Food content varies—from restaurant reviews, recipes, and pieces forecasting food trends to kitchen product reviews for home cooks and interviews with chefs and restaurateurs.

If you’re a foodie who wants to work in food media, here are essential tips to help you on your career path:

1. 1. Earn the right credentials. Food editor jobs often require a bachelor’s degree from a four-year college, though it’s possible to get a food editing job with a high school diploma or GED. While a degree from a school for the culinary arts is not often a requirement in a food editor job description, a culinary degree demonstrates your familiarity with how to cook, types of food, and the food industry.
2. 2. Get experience in the food industry. Expose yourself to all aspects of global cuisine and the different roles in a kitchen to write about them with authority. Experience working in restaurants or cafés is not required, but it provides a strong understanding of the industry.
3. 3. Sharpen your writing skills. Strong writing and communication skills are requirements, as are extensive samples of your food writing. Work experience in food-writing jobs, such as experience as a food critic for a publication or digital media outlet, is essential for a food editor job.

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