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Contract Copy Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This is a fully remote, ongoing as-needed contract opportunity . This client needs a reliable copy editor they can hand content to and trust it comes back clean, accurate, and consistent. Healthcare, ...

Position Overview Reading Horizons is seeking an experienced Copy Editor to support the Curriculum and Training Division in producing high-quality educational content. This contract role ensures ...

Requisition ID 2026-4349 Job Summary Artemis is seeking a full-time Copy Editor with demonstrated experience supporting a large-scale federal communications contract. The Copy Editor supports the ...

2026-4349 Artemis is seeking a full-time Copy Editor with demonstrated experience supporting a large-scale federal communications contract. The Copy Editor supports the government client by ...

Requisition ID2026-4349Job Summary Artemis is seeking a full-time Copy Editor with demonstrated experience supporting a large-scale federal communications contract. The Copy Editor supports the ...

Print Editor, Opinions

Washington, DC · On-site

$7.0K - $9.5K/mo

This contract role is an opportunity to bring opinions journalism to life in the print paper and go ... Work independently on Sundays and evenings with fast-moving copy. * Review Opinion stories to ...

Print Editor, Opinions

Washington, DC · On-site

$7.0K - $9.5K/mo

This contract role is an opportunity to bring opinions journalism to life in the print paper and go ... Work independently on Sundays and evenings with fast-moving copy. * Review Opinion stories to ...

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Contract Copy Editor information

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$12

$28

$47

How much do contract copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract 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.

Is AI replacing proofreaders?

Contract copy editors and proofreaders perform critical review and correction of written content, ensuring accuracy and clarity. While AI tools can assist with grammar and style checks, they do not fully replace the nuanced judgment and contextual understanding that human editors provide, making human oversight still essential in editing roles.

How much money do copy editors make?

The average salary for a contract copy editor ranges from $20 to $40 per hour, depending on experience, industry, and project complexity. Freelance copy editors may also charge per word or project, with rates varying widely based on skill level and client requirements.

What does a typical workday look like for a Contract Copy Editor?

A typical workday for a Contract Copy Editor involves reviewing and editing written materials—such as articles, marketing copy, or reports—for clarity, grammar, consistency, and adherence to style guidelines. You may juggle multiple projects from different clients, prioritize tasks based on deadlines, and communicate frequently with writers or project managers to clarify requirements or provide feedback. Most Contract Copy Editors work remotely and enjoy flexibility in setting their schedules, though responsiveness and timely delivery are crucial. Collaboration tools like Slack, email, and shared document platforms are commonly used to coordinate with other team members and ensure smooth workflow.

How much does it cost to edit 50,000 words?

For a contract copy editor, editing 50,000 words typically costs between $1,500 and $4,000, depending on the editor's experience, the complexity of the content, and the turnaround time. Rates are often calculated per word, per hour, or per project, with per-word rates generally ranging from 3 to 8 cents. Using editing tools and having relevant certifications can influence the overall cost and quality of the work.

Is there a demand for copy editors?

There is steady demand for contract copy editors across various industries, especially in publishing, marketing, and digital media. Employers seek editors with strong language skills and proficiency in editing tools, and remote work opportunities are common in this field.

What is a Contract Copy Editor job?

A Contract Copy Editor is a freelance or temporary professional responsible for reviewing and refining written content for accuracy, clarity, grammar, and consistency. They typically work on a project-by-project basis for publishers, marketing agencies, or businesses. Their role includes checking for spelling errors, improving sentence structure, and ensuring adherence to style guides. Since they are contractors, they may work remotely and manage multiple clients at once.

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

To thrive as a Contract Copy Editor, you need excellent command of English grammar, spelling, and style, combined with a keen attention to detail and prior editing experience or a relevant degree. Familiarity with editing tools such as Microsoft Word Track Changes, Google Docs, and style guides like AP, Chicago, or MLA is often required. Strong time management, ability to work independently, and clear communication with clients or team members distinguish top performers in this contract-based role. These skills and qualities are vital to consistently deliver accurate, polished content within set deadlines across a variety of projects.

More about Contract Copy Editor jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Copy Editor jobs? Cities with the most Contract Copy Editor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Copy Editor jobs? The most popular types of Copy Editor jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Copy Editor jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Copy Editor jobs include:
Copy Editor

Contractor

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

smartdept. is searching for a Copy Editor for a marketing services client. The ideal candidate will come with 2+ years of experience. This is a fully remote, ongoing as-needed contract opportunity.
This client needs a reliable copy editor they can hand content to and trust it comes back clean, accurate, and consistent. Healthcare, medical device, or regulated product experience is a must.
What You'll Do:
  • Review and edit marketing content for grammar, clarity, accuracy, and brand consistency
  • Ensure copy is polished and client-ready across formats including web, collateral, and campaign materials
  • Flag inconsistencies in tone, terminology, and style
  • Turn around assignments quickly with minimal back-and-forth

What You'll Need:
Education/Experience:
  • 2+ years of copy editing experience required
  • Healthcare, medical device, or regulated product industry experience required
  • Experience editing for medical or clinical audiences (patients, providers, or HCPs) required

Skills:
  • Strong command of grammar, AP or Chicago style, and plain-language writing standards
  • Ability to edit technical or clinical content without losing accuracy
  • Detail-oriented, fast, and easy to work with on quick-turnaround projects

Nice-to-Have Skills:
  • Experience with medical device or diagnostic product marketing
  • Familiarity with oncology, surgical, or interventional radiology content
  • Background editing both B2B and patient-facing healthcare materials

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About smartdept.

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

smartdept. is a nationwide creative, digital, and marketing talent resource. We provide companies with freelance, contract, direct hire, and contract-to-hire candidates for on-site, remote, and hybrid opportunities. Our ability to service customers of all sizes, while still taking a boutique approach to service, allows us the best chance to cultivate the successful relationships we value. Our detailed matching process lets us really get to know everything about our talent – their short- and long-term goals, strengths and weaknesses, favorite playlist, go-to social media influencer, you name it. So when you present us with your criteria, we can provide the most ideal candidate, not just the most available one.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

2001

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