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Contract Copy Editing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

pplco

Grants and Contracts Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Title : Grants and Contracts Manager Reports to : Director of Development Program : 7000 ... Provides specific feedback and copy editing on each application and report submission to grants ...

pplco

Grants and Contracts Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Title : Grants and Contracts Manager Reports to : Director of Development Program : 7000 ... Provides specific feedback and copy editing on each application and report submission to grants ...

Cypress HCM

Supply Operations Manager

San Francisco, CA

$43.27 - $48.27/hr

We are seeking a diligent and dynamic Supply Operations Manager on a contract basis, to become an ... Copy editing or writing experience a plus Compensation: * $43.27-48.27/hr W-2 Req ID: * 36415123

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsContract Copy Editing JobsContract Copy Editing Jobs in California

Contract Copy Editing information

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$11

$30

$60

How much do contract copy editing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract copy editing in California is $30.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.93 and $34.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Contract Copy Editing vs Contract Proofreading?

AspectContract Copy EditingContract Proofreading
Primary FocusImproving clarity, style, and consistency of the textCorrecting grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors
Skills & CredentialsEditing skills, strong language knowledge, possibly editing certificationsAttention to detail, strong grammar and spelling skills
Work EnvironmentCollaborative editing process, often with writers or editorsFinal review stage, often independent
Industry UsageUsed across publishing, marketing, legal, and corporate sectorsPrimarily in publishing, legal, and corporate documents

Contract copy editing involves refining the content for clarity, style, and consistency, often requiring editing credentials. Proofreading focuses on catching grammatical and typographical errors. Both roles are essential in the editing process but serve different purposes in ensuring high-quality documents.

What is contract copy editing?

Contract copy editing is a form of freelance or temporary work where an editor is hired on a contract basis to review and revise written materials for clarity, grammar, style, and accuracy. Unlike full-time in-house editors, contract copy editors typically work for multiple clients and projects, providing their services as needed. Their responsibilities often include correcting spelling and grammatical errors, checking for consistency, and ensuring the text meets the client's standards and guidelines. This role can be performed remotely or on-site, depending on the agreement with the client. Contract copy editors are valued for their flexibility, expertise, and the ability to handle various types of content across industries.

What are some common challenges faced by contract copy editors, and how can they be managed effectively?

Contract copy editors often juggle multiple projects with varying deadlines, which can make time management challenging. Additionally, they may need to quickly adapt to different style guides and client expectations across diverse industries. To manage these challenges, it’s important to establish clear communication with clients, use organizational tools to track project timelines, and stay updated on major style guides like AP, Chicago, or MLA. Building a network with other editors can also provide support and resources for handling complex editing queries.

What key skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a Contract Copy Editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Copy Editor, you need a strong command of grammar, style, and language conventions, typically supported by a degree in English, journalism, or a related field. Familiarity with editing tools such as Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and style guides like AP or Chicago Manual of Style is essential. Attention to detail, time management, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure that edited content is accurate, clear, and delivered on deadline, maintaining the quality and credibility of published materials.
What are the most commonly searched types of Copy Editing jobs in California? The most popular types of Copy Editing jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Contract Copy Editing jobs? Cities in California with the most Contract Copy Editing job openings:
Contract Copy Editing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Copy Editing job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,349 per year, or $30.5 per hour.
Copy Editor III

Copy Editor III

Russell, Tobin & Associates

Cupertino, CA • On-site

$52/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Copy Editor III (Contract)
Duration: 12-Month Contract
Location: 100% Remote
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Pay rate: $52/hr. on W2
 
Job Summary:
Our client is seeking a highly skilled Copy Editor III to support the Retail Engagement, Marketing, and Merchandising (REMM) organization. The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented, technically proficient editorial professional with exceptional writing, proofreading, and content quality expertise.
This role will be responsible for reviewing, editing, and refining a wide range of internal and external communications to ensure accuracy, consistency, clarity, and alignment with established brand and style standards. The successful candidate thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, can manage multiple priorities, and is comfortable working independently while partnering with creative, marketing, and cross-functional teams.
 
Key Responsibilities
  • Edit and proofread digital and print communications, including internal communications, marketing content, email campaigns, social media copy, reference materials, signage, and presentations.
  • Review content throughout all stages of development, from initial drafts through final production, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and quality.
  • Collaborate closely with writers, designers, and cross-functional stakeholders to improve messaging, readability, and overall content effectiveness.
  • Perform detailed fact-checking, grammar reviews, and copy refinements while maintaining editorial standards.
  • Ensure content follows U.S. English language conventions, punctuation, grammar, and established style guidelines.
  • Apply knowledge of professional style guides, including The Chicago Manual of Style, to maintain consistency across communications.
  • Support content development initiatives by leveraging emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence tools, where appropriate.
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines in a dynamic and evolving environment.
 
Required Qualifications
  • 5+ years of professional experience in copy editing, content editing, proofreading, or related communications roles.
  • Experience working within creative, marketing, communications, or content-focused teams.
  • Exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills with strong attention to detail.
  • Advanced understanding of U.S. English grammar, punctuation, style, and usage.
  • Extensive experience with fact-checking and maintaining content accuracy.
  • Familiarity with professional editorial standards and style guides.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to adapt quickly, prioritize effectively, and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Experience using productivity and presentation tools such as Pages, Numbers, and Keynote.
  • Interest or experience in using artificial intelligence tools to support content creation and editorial workflows.
 
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field preferred; equivalent professional experience considered.
  • Experience editing communications for large, global organizations or customer-facing brands.
  • Background working with marketing, retail, merchandising, or employee engagement communications.
 
Additional Information
Candidates may be required to complete a copyediting assessment as part of the interview process.
The organization is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified candidates.
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About Russell Tobin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Russell Tobin is a leading minority-owned professional recruitment and staffing advisory organization. We are comprised of specialized practices focusing on a variety of skill sets and industries. Having a depth and breadth of industry expertise, our subject matter experts are able to provide tailored and swift sourcing solutions to fulfill client hiring needs. In other words, we connect top talent with companies We are the staffing arm of the Pride Global network, a minority-owned integrated human capital solutions firm, with additional offerings in vendor management, payroll programs, and business process optimization.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

2010

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