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Copy Desk Editor Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Copy Desk Editor information

What is a copy desk editor?

Copy Desk Editors are professionals in the publishing and journalism industries who review, edit, and fact-check written material before publication. They ensure that articles are clear, accurate, and adhere to a publication’s style guide. Their responsibilities often include correcting grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors, as well as verifying facts and maintaining consistency across content. Copy Desk Editors work closely with writers and other editors to polish content and uphold editorial standards.

What is the difference between Copy Desk Editor vs Copy Editor?

AspectCopy Desk EditorCopy Editor
CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or related fieldUsually requires similar degrees or relevant experience
Work EnvironmentWorks in newsrooms, publishing houses, or media organizations, often on a teamWorks in publishing, media, or freelance settings, focusing on editing content
ResponsibilitiesOversees editorial standards, fact-checks, and ensures consistency across contentFocuses on correcting grammar, style, and clarity in individual pieces

The Copy Desk Editor typically has a broader role in managing editorial standards and overseeing content quality in a newsroom or publishing environment. The Copy Editor mainly concentrates on editing individual articles or documents for grammar, style, and clarity. While both roles require strong editing skills and similar credentials, the Copy Desk Editor's responsibilities are more comprehensive and supervisory.

What are some typical challenges copy desk editors face when working on tight deadlines?

Copy Desk Editors often work under tight deadlines, especially when editing content for daily or weekly publications. A common challenge is balancing speed with accuracy—ensuring that articles are free from grammatical, factual, and stylistic errors while still meeting publishing schedules. Editors also need to coordinate closely with writers, fact-checkers, and layout designers, which requires strong communication skills and flexibility. Staying updated with evolving editorial standards and quickly adapting to last-minute changes are key aspects of succeeding in this role.

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

To thrive as a Copy Desk Editor, you need strong grammar, spelling, and punctuation skills, along with a solid understanding of style guides and a degree in journalism, English, or a related field. Familiarity with content management systems (CMS), editing software like Adobe InCopy, and digital publishing tools is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, time management, and effective communication help copy desk editors excel in fast-paced newsrooms. These skills are crucial for ensuring accuracy, consistency, and clarity in published content while meeting tight deadlines.
What are popular job titles related to Copy Desk Editor jobs in Minnesota? For Copy Desk Editor jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Copy Desk Editor jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Copy Desk Editor jobs in Minnesota are:

Sports Desk Editor (Multiple Locations)

Associated Press

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world's population sees AP journalism every day.
Why this role matters:
The Associated Press seeks a night editor to join its Sports desk in the U.S. The successful candidate will have excellent news judgment, strong knowledge across a range of sports and the ability to excel under tight deadlines. This person must also be a first-rate collaborator and team player, able to work effectively with AP staff and freelancers around the world.
What you will do: This editor will be part of a multi-format newsgathering and text-editing team, managing content from dozens of reporters globally. Nights and weekends are required. We are looking for a self-starter who brings creative ideas, thrives in breaking news situations and contributes to a team-first environment.
  • You will edit and file content in a fast-paced environment for thousands of customer newsrooms and millions of users on AP's direct-to-audience platforms.
  • You will work closely with staff to elevate stories, fact-check copy and ensure AP has the strongest report on breaking sports news, game stories and enterprise.
  • You will use audience metrics and other tools to identify trends, understand audience behavior and help turn those insights into stronger reporting and storytelling.
  • You will also employ a range of tools to monitor breaking news developments and trending topics, coordinating with Sports managers and other teams across AP to ensure our coverage is competitive.

Who you are:
Required:
  • We're looking for candidates with experience covering sports who are fast, creative editors able to handle spot news, game stories, features and enterprise.
  • You will have strong news sense, sound editorial judgment and the ability to communicate effectively across teams and formats.
  • The successful candidate will have at least three years of full-time journalism or copy-editing experience.
  • Applicants must be willing and able to work any shift, including nights and weekends, as AP is a 24/7 operation.

What will set you apart:
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
  • All applicants must be able to work in the U.S. or be able to gain permission to do so.
  • Advanced-level professional competency in written and spoken English.
  • Professional competency in a language besides English is a plus.
  • Strong interpersonal, organizational and planning skills, with the ability to juggle multiple projects across formats and deliver success on complex, challenging story lines.
  • Ability to use audience data, metrics tools and trend-spotting tools to help shape coverage decisions and improve story selection, framing and presentation.

Why join us:
  • A mission-driven, inclusive environment focused on both individual and collective success.
  • Opportunities for professional development to help you reach your career goals.
  • Access to tools, mentorship, and resources tailored to elevate your proficiency and contributions.

Salary & Benefits:
This job will be based in any of the following locations: Dallas, Detroit, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Minneapolis or Philadelphia.
The anticipated salary range for this position is $70,000 - $90,000, based on a candidate's skills, qualifications and location. The Associated Press offers comprehensive benefits, which include:
  • Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage
  • Retirement benefits
  • Company paid life insurance
  • Paid vacation and sick days
  • Paid parental leave for any new parent
  • Mental well-being resources

This position is covered by The Associated Press' contract with the News Media Guild, which provides for an annual salary for Class A staff of between $53,477 and $85,214 based on location and years of professional experience. Additional compensation is negotiable based on a job candidate's skills, qualifications and market location. Employees are eligible to participate, according to the terms of the official plan documents, in a 401(k) plan and employer-sponsored health insurance plan and are eligible for paid time off and holidays in accordance with AP policy.
Application deadline is August 14, 2026, at 11:59p.m. ET.
AP seeks to build an inclusive organization grounded in respect for differences. We support all aspects of diversity and provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a veteran, or other characteristic protected by law.