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Book Copy Editor Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Credence

Proposal Manager

Mclean, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... copy editing, word processing, template formatting, etc.) and as part of a proposal team (managing technical writers, book bosses, etc.). * Must have been responsible for managing and executing ...

Credence

Proposal Manager

Mclean, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... copy editing, word processing, template formatting, etc.) and as part of a proposal team (managing technical writers, book bosses, etc.). * Must have been responsible for managing and executing ...

FM Talent

Proposal Manager

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

... copy editing, word processing, template formatting, etc.) and as part of a proposal team (managing technical writers, book bosses, etc.) · Collaborate on win strategies and capture planning to align ...

Cheddar

Freelance Multimedia Journalist

Washington, DC · On-site

$75 - $100/hr

Excellent writing and editing skills, with the ability to craft clear, concise, and error-free copy ... Book and conduct interviews of your own sources and on-camera guests * Utilize advanced video ...

Cheddar

Freelance Multimedia Journalist

Washington, DC · On-site

$75 - $100/hr

Excellent writing and editing skills, with the ability to craft clear, concise, and error-free copy ... Book and conduct interviews of your own sources and on-camera guests * Utilize advanced video ...

Trivium

Creative Strategist

Washington, DC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

... copy. You develop the concepts, write the hooks, and script the funnel: ads, VSL, book-a-call page ... You work alongside our editors and designers, who handle production. You don't manage clients and ...

Trivium

Creative Strategist

Washington, DC · Remote

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

... copy. You develop the concepts, write the hooks, and script the funnel: ads, VSL, book-a-call page ... You work alongside our editors and designers, who handle production. You don't manage clients and ...

All JobsBook Copy Editor JobsBook Copy Editor Jobs in Washington

Book Copy Editor information

See Washington salary details

$14

$32

$53

How much do book copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for book copy editor in Washington is $32.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.05 and $36.20 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a book copy editor?

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 Washington? The most popular types of Book Copy Editor jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Book Copy Editor jobs in Washington? For Book Copy Editor jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Book Copy Editor jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Book Copy Editor jobs in Washington are:
Book Copy Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Book Copy Editor job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 82% In-person, 9% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,739 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Senior Editor, Books

AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC ASSOCIATION

Washington, DC • On-site

$76K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
The Senior Editor, Books, is responsible for coordinating editorial and production aspects of assigned projects, including substantive editing of chapter and book manuscripts; managing manuscript work flow and editorial schedules; performing editorial and production-related tasks for individual projects; managing approved freelance copyeditors, proofreaders, and indexers; serving as liaison with authors and volume editors; and working closely with the Prepress Manager and Production staff throughout the production process. Incumbent supports all steps required to bring books and other assigned products to market and maintain ongoing products, provide input on new products as needed, and provide editorial project management with the team involved in content development, production, and marketing. Products may include chapters, books, webinars, ebooks and apps, and consolidations of content from existing books, journals, video, and news.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Provides editorial and project management support for the development, editing, and production of APAP products, including books, ebooks, mobile apps, and consolidations of content from existing products. Prioritizes workflow to ensure that high-priority schedules are met. Maintains editing schedules of individual projects and continuously monitors and reports on progress of all projects. Consults on production of supplemental materials.
  • Attends transmittal meeting, biweekly team and one-on-one meetings, and Publishing Town Hall to maintain communication, provide updates, and stay informed about Publishing news.
  • Collaborates with managers in various functional areas of APA to identify the special editorial needs of individual projects and address these needs during editing and working with authors. Ensures that manuscript or other product presents authors' ideas in a clear, precise, and effective manner and that necessary permissions for use of previously published material are in order. Ensures that disclosure forms are on file and creates Disclosure section in front matter.
  • Manages, reviews, and oversees the work of freelance copyeditors, proofreaders, and indexers. Supervises overall quality of work and provides feedback for freelance vendors regarding APAP style and procedures.
  • Copyedits manuscripts for style, grammar, and accuracy and codes files for typesetting and electronic publishing. Edits, formats, or creates tables, figures, and other product elements as needed. Ensures that all figures have alt text, or queries author to supply. Queries author for abstract and key words if not provided. Verifies scientific nomenclature for accuracy and consistency. Resolves discrepancies and errors in cited references. Evaluates author and proofreader corrections for accuracy and sense and incorporates corrections into computer files with word-processing and typesetting software. Applies to Library of Congress for LCCN data.
  • Transmits projects to Prepress Manager for figure drawing and cover design.
  • Prepares projects for and uploads projects to digital workflow system. Performs initial tasks required by system (e.g., element verification, reference linking). In workflow system, ensures proper formatting of all page elements, including title pages, tables, figures, and references.
  • Updates Milestones in workflow system as needed to keep project on track.
  • Serves as liaison with authors or volume editors on assigned projects. Sends edited manuscripts and page proofs to authors or volume editors for approval; ensures that all changes are incorporated correctly. Monitors all components of project for consistency and adherence to APA style.
  • Reviews/edits supplemental materials (e.g., videos, handouts) and oversees their production across multiple departments to ensure their completion coincides with book publication.
  • Provides input on cover design and reviews cover design and marketing copy for accuracy and appropriateness.
  • Reviews indexes for accuracy and appropriate formatting.
  • Works with workflow system vendor or Prepress Manager to make final InDesign or FrameMaker corrections and prepare book for printer. Notifies Production team that the book is ready for the printer. Examines soft proofs and advances, gives final approval for publication, orders complimentary copies for contributors. Assists in determining potential for reuse and repackaging of content into unique products and services.
  • Develops and maintains knowledge about APA and APAP functional departments, existing publications and processes, and print and online delivery mechanisms (e.g., www.PsychiatryOnline, www.APPI.org, www.Psych.org).
  • Provides input on decisions regarding books and new product development, vendors, platforms and software, and other equipment needed for editing, production, and product delivery. Works with all principals to plan and launch new products.
  • Monitors industry literature, attends meetings/conferences, and/or participates in trainings to become aware of other products on the market, developments in the book and scholarly publishing industry, and issues that may impact product development. Networks with industry colleagues.

COMPETENCIES
The Senior Editor's performance on these duties and responsibilities will be measured using the following competencies:
SCOPE & IMPACT
  • Responsible for the daily activities of all aspects of assigned book projects and supplements.
  • Demonstrates thorough knowledge of grammar, style, copyediting, and project management as well as APA Publishing products and goals.
  • Successfully completes assigned projects within established time frame or alerts Director, Books Editorial if projects fall behind.
  • Demonstrates proficiency in use of Microsoft Word and related templates, Adobe FrameMaker and Acrobat, and software/systems necessary for production (i.e., eXtyles RefPro, Lanstad).
  • Provides suggestions and recommendations that improve processes and increase efficiency.
  • Collaborates with fellow team members to address project- or team-related challenges (e.g., sharing input on unusual or problematic projects, reviewing processes or guides that need updating). Update in-house Style Guide as needed.
  • Success is measured by the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, maintain schedules, and interact appropriately and effectively with staff, authors, editors, vendors, and other stakeholders.

COMPLEXITY, PROBLEM SOLVING & DECISION-MAKING
  • Independently resolves issues with internal or external clients and/or identifies novel and complex problems and issues. Designs and implements solutions with management approval or escalates concerns to the appropriate level.
  • Makes appropriate project-related decisions and performs project-related tasks with minimal supervision.
  • Manages time and balances project priorities to maintain production schedules.
  • Approaches unusual projects or supplements as opportunities to learn new skills and procedures.

RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT & AUTHORITY
  • Relationships center on collaborative work efforts within Publishing and effective communication with external clients such as authors, editors, and vendors.
  • Uses diplomatic skills to obtain trust and cooperation in order to resolve issues and/or non-routine matters, manage projects, or achieve appropriate solutions.
  • May be asked to represent the organization as a liaison to external audiences with feedback provided to management.
  • Uses tact and discretion to obtain cooperation and understanding on routine and non-routine matters.

ORGANIZATIONAL KNOWLEDGE
  • Demonstrates a general understanding of the Senior Editor's responsibilities and relationships within the department.
  • Demonstrates a general knowledge of APA Publishing's processes, relationships, and responsibilities as well as the interactions within the organization.

SUPERVISION
  • Coaches and mentors junior-level staff.
  • Supervises and assesses work of freelance vendors.

REQUIRED SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in English, science, or behavioral science, with at least 5 years of significant experience in medical or scientific editing, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Demonstrated examples of significant editorial skills and electronic publishing experience.
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to creatively solve problems; and strong content development and project management skills.
  • Knowledge of publishing systems and emerging technologies and content delivery systems as they apply to publishing, combined with prior experience in STM publishing.

EOE, including disability/vets

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