Assistin editing book manuscripts; identifying and overseeing freelancers, electroniccoding and ... Work activities requireinterfacing with freelancers (copy editors, proofreaders, indexers, etc ...
Assistin editing book manuscripts; identifying and overseeing freelancers, electroniccoding and ... Work activities requireinterfacing with freelancers (copy editors, proofreaders, indexers, etc ...
Assistant Editor
Detroit, MI · On-site
Assistin editing book manuscripts; identifying and overseeing freelancers, electroniccoding and ... Work activities requireinterfacing with freelancers (copy editors, proofreaders, indexers, etc ...
Assistant Editor
Detroit, MI · On-site
Assistin editing book manuscripts; identifying and overseeing freelancers, electroniccoding and ... Work activities requireinterfacing with freelancers (copy editors, proofreaders, indexers, etc ...
Book Copy Editor information
See Michigan salary details
$10.89 - $13.66
8% of jobs
$13.66 - $16.42
10% of jobs
$16.42 - $19.18
8% of jobs
$19.24 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$19.18 - $21.94
12% of jobs
The median wage is $24.10 / hr.
$21.94 - $24.70
17% of jobs
$27.18 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$24.70 - $27.47
24% of jobs
$27.47 - $30.23
13% of jobs
$30.23 - $32.99
2% of jobs
$32.99 - $35.75
4% of jobs
$35.75 - $38.51
2% of jobs
$38.51 - $41.28
1% of jobs
$10
$25
$41
How much do book copy editor jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for book copy editor in Michigan is $25.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $27.88 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Book Copy Editor jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Book Copy Editor jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Book Copy Editor jobs in Michigan? For Book Copy Editor jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Book Copy Editor jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Book Copy Editor jobs in Michigan are:
Wayne State University rating
7.6
Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
285th of 611 rated colleges and universities
Job description
POSITIONPURPOSE
Provide editorialassistance in the development and processing of manuscripts to ensure timelyand quality publication of books.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- Assistin all facets of manuscript development. Assist in reviewing unsolicited manuscripts and proposals, securingappropriate and qualified reviewers, and preparing materials for editorialboard review. Maintain and monitormanuscript review and publication schedules.
- Assistin all facets of editorial work. Assistin editing book manuscripts; identifying and overseeing freelancers, electroniccoding and manuscript clean up, and interfacing with authors, contributors andeditors.
- Provideassistance in screening and selecting book proposals and manuscripts; verifywriting competence; update department databases. Assist in developing materials forpublications; maintain and monitor manuscript editing and copyeditingschedules.
- Preparecorrespondence, transmittals and communications; assist in coordinatingprojects; perform miscellaneous administrative support functions.
- Performrelated work as assigned.
ADDITIONALCOMMENTS
Thisclassification is designed to provide routine editorial assistance in thedevelopment and processing of manuscripts for publication. Skills inproofreading and editing and some understanding of scholarly book publishingare preferred. Work activities requireproviding assistance in all facets of manuscript preparation, editorial workand publication. Work activities requireinterfacing with freelancers (copy editors, proofreaders, indexers, etc.)authors and internal editorial staff. This classification is generally assigned to the University Press withinthe University Library System. Thisclassification reports to and receives technical guidance from a managementlevel position.
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About Wayne State University
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Colleges, universities, and professional schools
Company size
5,001 - 10,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Detroit, MI, US
Year founded
1868