Editor - Defence
Editor Location: Canberra, ACT or Remote
About the Role
Horsell is looking for two experienced editors to help produce official Defence publications and related documents. You will join a small editorial team and work closely with writers, publication developers and graphic specialists to turn draft material into clear, polished, accessible publications. The work covers a mix of book-length publications and shorter documents. Much of it follows set style and formatting rules, so a careful, consistent approach matters. Start date: Mid-July 2026. Employment: Full-time permanent employment is preferred. We will also consider casual or subcontract arrangements for highly suitable candidates able to commit to approximately 220 working days per year. What you'll do: Edit and proofread a wide range of Defence publications, from structural and substantive editing through to copy-editing and final proofs Work with writers and developers on structure, plain English expression, formatting and house style Make sure documents meet accessibility standards for online publishing Help shape diagrams and graphics by briefing specialists and reviewing drafts Coordinate with the print and distribution team to get publications produced and delivered Keep clear records of changes and decisions for each publication Support the development of consistent Defence terminology and glossaries Offer advice and informal training on the publication process What you'll bring: Minimum 3 years’ experience as a professional editor Experience producing book-length manuscripts aligned to established style guides Experience working within Defence, Government or other highly regulated organisations Strong written communication, editing and proofreading capabilities Fluency in the Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Acrobat Strong interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment Ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines effectively Helpful but not essential: Membership of the Institute of Professional Editors (IPEd) A formal qualification in editing or publishing Security Requirements You must hold a current Australian Government security clearance (Baseline minimum, NV1 highly desirable), or be eligible for reinstatement. Candidates without a clearance will not be considered. Life At Horsell Join a company where people are the priority, supported by an inclusive and supportive culture. At Horsell, we value each team member and offer benefits that support both professional growth and personal wellbeing. Flexible Work Policy: Various working arrangements to support work-life balance. Professional Development: Strong focus on growth with a professional development fund of $5,000. Additional Leave Benefits: Enjoy extra privileges such as an additional day off on your birthday. Defence Reserves Leave: Paid leave, as applicable. Social Events: Two annual celebrations, one held at the state level and another as a national event (EOFY and Christmas), with one of them always being family-friendly. Regular Hangouts: Monthly catch-ups, one held in person by state and another online for the whole Horsell team. Annual Performance Bonus: Be eligible for an annual bonus that reflects your alignment with our company values. Early Wage Access: Financial flexibility with access to up to 50% of your earned salary before payday, up to a maximum of $1,000 per week, through our early wage access program. Intellect Mental Health & Wellbeing Support for you and your family. And much more, just ask!
About Us
Horsell is a 100% Australian, family and veteran-owned professional services firm. We help government, Defence and industry make better procurement, business and project decisions. We provide consulting, technical communication, bid and proposal, commercial, engineering, logistics and project management services. Our clients range from Defence and government programs to the infrastructure, technology, manufacturing and professional services sectors. We are known for turning complex technical and commercial information into clear, practical advice clients can act on.