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Copy Editing Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Copy Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Enhance content quality, bringing copy from good to great through meticulous editing and an understanding of impactful storytelling. * Maintain and develop our style guide, being a vanguard of ...

Copy Editor

Arlington, VA

$100K - $120K/yr

Enhance content quality, bringing copy from good to great through meticulous editing and an understanding of impactful storytelling. * Maintain and develop our style guide, being a vanguard of ...

Copy Editor

Arlington, VA

$100K - $120K/yr

Enhance content quality, bringing copy from good to great through meticulous editing and an understanding of impactful storytelling. * Maintain and develop our style guide, being a vanguard of ...

Tech Writer/Editor Sr

Springfield, VA · On-site

$82K - $140K/yr

Required Skills and Education - Minimum of 3 years of copy-editing experience with a background in graphic design. - Proficiency in collaborating with analysts to convey high-quality, time-sensitive ...

Perform copy editing, proofreading, document formatting, and final publication reviews. * Support Section 508 accessibility and quality-control activities and ensure products comply with applicable ...

New

Proofreads and performs light copy editing for consistency, grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Assists with editing as needed and notifies quality control of errors. * Creates shells for documents ...

Proofreads and performs light copy editing for consistency, grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Assists with editing as needed and notifies quality control of errors. * Creates shells for documents ...

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Copy Editing information

See Washington, DC salary details

$14

$32

$53

How much do copy editing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for copy editing in Washington, DC 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 is copy editing?

Copy editing is the process of reviewing and correcting written material to improve accuracy, readability, and consistency. Copy editors check for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and style errors, ensuring that the text adheres to a specific style guide. They may also fact-check information and suggest changes to clarify or enhance the content. The goal is to produce clear, error-free writing that effectively communicates its intended message.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a copy editor, and why are they important?

To succeed as a Copy Editor, you need excellent language proficiency, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of grammar, style, and punctuation, often supported by a degree in English, journalism, or communications. Familiarity with editing tools like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and content management systems, as well as style guides such as AP or Chicago Manual of Style, is typically required. Strong organizational skills, time management, and the ability to provide constructive feedback help Copy Editors stand out. These skills are crucial to ensure written content is clear, accurate, and consistent, which upholds the quality and credibility of publications.

What is the difference between Copy Editing vs Proofreading?

AspectCopy EditingProofreading
FocusImproving clarity, style, and consistency; correcting grammar and punctuationFinal error check for typos, punctuation, and formatting
SkillsStrong editing, language, and style knowledgeAttention to detail, familiarity with style guides
Work EnvironmentEditorial offices, publishing houses, online contentPost-editing review, publishing, printing
CredentialsOften requires editing or language certificationsLess formal; focus on accuracy

Copy editing involves refining content for clarity, style, and correctness before publication, while proofreading is the final review to catch remaining errors. Both roles are essential in the publishing process but focus on different stages of editing.

How do you become a copy editor?

To become a copy editor, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field, along with strong language, grammar, and editing skills. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level editing positions and becoming proficient with editing tools like style guides and editing software can also help advance in the field.

What are some common challenges copy editors face when balancing quality and deadlines?

Copy editors often work under tight deadlines while maintaining high standards for accuracy and clarity. Juggling multiple projects at once can make it challenging to thoroughly check for errors, inconsistencies, or unclear phrasing. Effective time management and attention to detail are crucial, and many copy editors develop strategies such as prioritizing tasks and using style guides to streamline their workflow. Despite the pressure, collaborating with writers and other editors helps ensure the final product meets both quality and timeline expectations.

How much does a copy editor get paid?

The average salary for a copy editor ranges from $40,000 to $65,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions typically start around $35,000, while experienced editors or those working in specialized fields can earn over $70,000. Many copy editors work freelance or remotely, which can affect income levels.

Is copy editing still in demand?

Copy editing remains in demand as organizations seek clear, accurate content for digital and print media. Skills in grammar, style, and familiarity with editing tools like style guides are valuable, and remote opportunities are common in the industry.
What are the most commonly searched types of Copy Editing jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Copy Editing jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Copy Editing job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,739 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

GEOINT Conveyance/Copy Editor- Springfield, VA with Security Clearance

BAE Systems

Springfield, VA • On-site

$82K - $140K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Job Description BAE Systems is seeking a Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) Production Editor to support the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Operations Center. The GEOINT Production Editor reviews and formats text and graphics to ensure reports meet Agency and Intelligence Community guidelines for quality and compliance. Key Responsibilities: - Edit, format, and review GEOINT elements such as report text, visuals, and other content per agency publication policies. - Apply copy editing skills to ensure text quality and effectively communicate concepts visually. - Collaborate with analytic authors, GEOINT Operations Officers (GOOs), and Intelligence Directors (IDs) to support GEOINT production and dissemination. - Provide guidance on the layout, presentation, and accuracy of graphics and text. - Troubleshoot production issues, share expertise, and assist with editing PowerPoint presentations and briefing materials. - Utilize Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint), Adobe Acrobat, and other software suites with minimal supervision. - Participate in training, forums, and conferences to stay current with industry standards and practices. *This role requires rotating shift work in a time-sensitive operations environment. Required Education, Experience, & Skills - Minimum of 3 years of copy-editing experience with a background in graphic design. - Proficiency in collaborating with analysts to convey high-quality, time-sensitive GEOINT to NGA's external customers. - Ability to provide pre-publication quality reviews and identify gaps in product quality. - Expertise in reviewing and formatting geospatial intelligence reports and products according to agency standards. - Clear, professional feedback to analysts on layout, grammar, design, and consistency. - Review visual elements like maps, charts, and illustrations for standard adherence. - Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint), Adobe Acrobat, and other relevant tools. - Mastery of NGA production software and tools (ICPS, SharePoint). - Verify classifications, identify sourcing issues, and provide classification guidance. - Excellent customer service skills, clear communication, and effective team relationships. - Ability to multitask, prioritize, and adapt to changing requirements. - Support agency missions, including crisis work, special assignments, and ad hoc tasks. - Participate in production support meetings and provide updates. - Develop and implement training for GEOINT Conveyance Specialist colleagues. - Effective communication with internal staff and external partners. - Archive materials following established guidelines. Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills - Bachelor's Degree in a field relevant to copy editing or graphic design. - Familiarity with the Intelligence Community (IC). Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $82779 - $140723 Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience. Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics. About BAE Systems Intelligence & Security BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference. Intelligence & Security (I&S), based in McLean, Virginia, designs and delivers advanced defense, intelligence, and security solutions that support the important missions of our customers. Our pride and dedication shows in everything we do-from intelligence analysis, cyber operations and IT expertise to systems development, systems integration, and operations and maintenance services. Knowing that our work enables the U.S. military and government to recognize, manage and defeat threats inspires us to push ourselves and our technologies to new levels. This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

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