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Book Copy Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... copy-editing to bound book for up to 60+ front-list titles per year. • Evaluates manuscripts for copy-editing needs and for the styling of all design elements, applying proprietary Microsoft Word ...

Responsibilities • Manages the production editorial process from copy-editing to bound book for up to 60+ front-list titles per year. • Evaluates manuscripts for copy-editing needs and for the ...

Editor, Academic Books

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Book Department Editor Reports to : Vice President of Editorial and Director of Editorial, Book Department General Description of Responsibilities : The academic book editor will serve Crossway ...

Assistin editing book manuscripts; identifying and overseeing freelancers, electroniccoding and ... Work activities requireinterfacing with freelancers (copy editors, proofreaders, indexers, etc ...

New

The Hachette Book Group is seeking a Production Editor for its Workman imprints to manage 20-25 ... Copyedit, proofread, and route jacket and cover materials from original copy through final proof

Production Editor

New York, NY · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

The Hachette Book Group is seeking a Production Editor for its Workman imprints to manage 20-25 ... Copyedit, proofread, and route jacket and cover materials from original copy through final proof

The Hachette Book Group is seeking a Production Editor for its Workman imprints to manage 20-25 ... Copyedit, proofread, and route jacket and cover materials from original copy through final proof

Fact-check all copy. Check content against an in-house style guide and the AP Style Book. Understand and adhere to brand voice, tone and style. Handle multiple projects simultaneously and respect ...

This entails assigning, requesting photos, editing copy, inputting copy edits, doing final reads ... As the world's largest publisher and distributor of children's books through school-based book ...

Editor, Basic Venture

New York, NY · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

The Basic Books Group is a division of Hachette Book Group dedicated to making the world smarter by ... and jacket copy, etc. * Supervising the production process by acting as the in-house liaison ...

The Basic Books Group is a division of Hachette Book Group dedicated to making the world smarter by ... and jacket copy, etc. * Supervising the production process by acting as the in-house liaison ...

The Basic Books Group is a division of Hachette Book Group dedicated to making the world smarter by ... and jacket copy, etc. * Supervising the production process by acting as the in-house liaison ...

Editing social media copy for Interactive Dynamic Audios to be published to our social media ... Monthly Book and Masterclass Club meetings - One of our core values is to Keep Learning, so we pay ...

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Book Copy Editor information

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How much do book copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for book copy editor in the United States is $28.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $31.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical challenges faced by book copy editors when working on manuscripts?

Book copy editors often face challenges such as reconciling an author's unique voice with the publisher's style requirements, managing tight deadlines, and handling large volumes of text with consistent accuracy. They may also need to navigate ambiguous or unclear passages and coordinate with authors to clarify content without altering the original intent. Building strong relationships with authors and maintaining open, professional communication is key to overcoming these challenges. Successfully managing these aspects ensures both the integrity of the manuscript and a smooth editorial process.

How much money do copy editors make?

Book copy editors typically earn between $20 and $40 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $80,000 depending on experience, location, and employer. Freelance copy editors may charge per word or project, with rates varying widely based on expertise and project complexity.

Is there a demand for copy editors?

There is steady demand for copy editors, including book copy editors, as publishers and authors require editing for clarity, consistency, and accuracy. The job market is influenced by the publishing industry’s size and digital content growth, with skills in grammar, style guides, and editing tools being essential. Opportunities are available in publishing houses, freelance work, and online platforms.

What does a book copy editor do?

A book copy editor reviews and revises written content to improve clarity, consistency, grammar, punctuation, and style, ensuring the manuscript is polished and error-free before publication. They work closely with authors and publishers, often using editing tools and style guides to maintain the book's tone and accuracy.

How much money do book editors make?

Book copy editors typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Freelance editors may charge per hour or per word, with rates ranging from $25 to $75 per hour or $0.01 to $0.05 per word. Many editors also work part-time or on contract, which can affect overall income.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Book Copy Editor position, and why are they important?

A Book Copy Editor should have a strong command of grammar, punctuation, style, and language usage, often supported by a degree in English, Journalism, or Communications. Familiarity with style guides like Chicago or APA, and proficiency in editing software such as Microsoft Word with track changes, are typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, time management, and communication skills help copy editors excel, especially when working under deadlines or with multiple authors. These skills ensure that published materials are polished, error-free, and meet publisher standards for quality.

What does a Book Copy Editor do?

A Book Copy Editor reviews a manuscript for grammar, spelling, punctuation, consistency, and clarity. They ensure the writing adheres to a style guide and correct any factual inaccuracies or structural issues. Their goal is to refine the author's work while maintaining the original voice and intent. Copy editors also check for formatting errors and may collaborate with authors to improve readability. Their work helps create a polished, professional final manuscript ready for publication.

More about Book Copy Editor jobs
What cities are hiring for Book Copy Editor jobs? Cities with the most Book Copy Editor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Book Copy Editor jobs? The most popular types of Book Copy Editor jobs are:
What states have the most Book Copy Editor jobs? States with the most job openings for Book Copy Editor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Book Copy Editor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,809 per year, or $28.8 per hour.
Editor

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Cider Mill Press (a division of Harper Focus) brings fine reading, information, and entertainment together between the covers of its creatively crafted books. As a publisher of high-quality cookbooks, elegant wine and spirits titles, humor and gift books, and beautifully designed illustrated nonfiction, we are committed to top-notch design, unique formats, and fresh content that make every book a standout on the shelf.


The Production Editor guides front-list titles through every stage of the production process, from the transmittal of the final manuscript to bound books. Partnering closely with acquiring editors, content designers, art directors, and production managers, you will manage a diverse slate of projects and serve as the central point of coordination that keeps each book moving on schedule and to specification.


The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, and brings impeccable time and schedule management to every project—able to track many moving parts at once, anticipate bottlenecks before they happen, and hold each title to its deadline without sacrificing quality. Just as important, they are an avid reader who embraces Cider Mill Press's mission to create meaningful, distinctive nonfiction that resonates with readers.


• Manages the production editorial process from copy-editing to bound book for up to 60+ front-list titles per year.
• Evaluates manuscripts for copy-editing needs and for the styling of all design elements, applying proprietary Microsoft Word styles for design and composition.
• Creates, maintains, and applies project and house style guides to ensure consistency across titles, series, and editions.
• Coordinates with design teams and freelance editors, consolidates corrections from freelancers and authors and ensures the timely delivery of final files to the printer.
• Uses Adobe Acrobat to mark up proofs, route corrections, manage comments, and verify that all changes are reflected accurately across each round.
• Builds strong working relationships with colleagues across the organization, including acquisitions editors, marketing and sales, production, designers, typesetters, and       freelancers.
• Supports additional editions of assigned projects, including special editions, international editions, trade paper conversions, and derivative products.
• Copy-edits flap and cover copy and proofreads and reviews all stages of jacket and cover proofs.
• Provides editorial support for internal documents related to book proposals, sales conference materials, marketing materials, and other priority materials as needed.

• Ability to evaluate whether images or illustrations submitted and/or selected meet the Cider Mill's quality standards and are in close agreement with the manuscript. Imagery and illustrations should then be monitored closely during the various phases of production to ensure that this alignment remains.


Knowledge: Thorough knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite and the Chicago Manual of Style. Working knowledge of Adobe Acrobat is required, including the use of commenting and markup tools to manage proof corrections. Familiarity with broad trends across nonfiction publishing is preferred.

Work Experience Minimum 3 years’ editorial experience, preferably in trade book publishing.

Education Bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field. Other majors are welcome when combined with relevant experience.

Industry Knowledge Stays current with publishing-industry trends by reading trade publications such as Publishers Weekly (preferred).

Skills:


• Solid copy-editing and proofreading skills; knowledge of industry standards.
• Must have the ability to shepherd multiple projects while maintaining high standards of quality and hitting deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a personal drive for excellence.
• Strategic and always able to understand the bigger picture.
• Enjoy working independently and as a member of a collaborative team.
• Detail oriented; eagle-eyed at catching errors.
• Able to learn new systems quickly, such as HarperCollins’ proprietary software for managing manuscripts.

HarperCollins Christian Publishing is an equal opportunity employer.

HarperCollins Christian Publishing is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, in our job application and/or interview process. If you need assistance or accommodation in completing your application, due to a disability, email us at TalentManagement@harpercollins.com. Note: we will only respond to accommodation requests.