ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Copy Editing Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Graham Technologies

Technical Writer

Mclean, VA · Remote

Graham Technologies is seeking a Technical Writer to support stakeholder engagement and project delivery by providing expert copywriting, copy-editing, formatting, and document quality support for ...

E Logic

Video Production Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

Support live productions and media asset management. * Assist with transcription, translation, subtitling, and copy editing. * Ensure compliance with Section 508 accessibility standards. * Maintain ...

Toole Design

Proposal Coordinator

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$71K - $79K/yr

You perform copy editing and proofreading to ensure products are error-free. You develop interview presentations and marketing collateral. What You Bring:A bachelor's degree in marketing ...

Graham Technologies

Technical Writer

Mclean, VA · On-site

Graham Technologies is seeking a Technical Writer to support stakeholder engagement and project delivery by providing expert copywriting, copy-editing, formatting, and document quality support for ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsCopy Editing JobsCopy Editing Jobs in Washington, DC

Copy Editing information

See Washington, DC salary details

$14

$32

$53

How much do copy editing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 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 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.

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.

Do copy editing jobs still exist?

Yes, copy editing jobs still exist and are in demand across various industries such as publishing, media, and digital content. These roles often require strong language skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with editing tools like style guides and editing software. Many opportunities are available for remote and freelance work as well.

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. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level editing roles, developing strong language and grammar skills, and becoming proficient with editing tools like style guides and editing software are important steps in the process.

How much does a copy editor get paid?

The average salary for a copy editor varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. Entry-level copy editors may earn around $35,000, while experienced professionals or those working in specialized fields can earn over $80,000. Many copy editors work freelance or part-time, which can affect overall earnings.

Is copy editing still in demand?

Copy editing remains in demand as organizations seek clear, accurate content for digital and print media. The role often requires strong language skills and familiarity with editing tools like style guides and content management systems, with opportunities across publishing, marketing, and corporate communications.

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:

Copy Editing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Copy Editing job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,739 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

GEOINT History Program Specialist - Senior #793

Springfield, VA • On-site

Allen Integrated Solutions
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Allen Integrated Solutionsexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

GEOINT History Program Specialist - Senior

Clearance Required:  TS/SCI

Location:  Springfield, VA - 100% onsite

The GEOINT History Program Specialist - Senior, takes direction form the NGA Historian and is responsible for the management and execution of the historical program, from research and writing to curation and operations.   This individual leads the support to operate and maintain the material culture aspects of NGA's history, to operate and maintain the archives and all associated material residing in the Historical Research Center, and to preserve and communicate NGA's history to NGA's employees and public affairs mission both internally externally.  Duties include content development and execution, Historical Research Center management, museum management, and archiving and curation.  As the senior level historian, provide oversight of history services within the contract to include AP Style copy editing.

Duties Include:

  • Content Development & Execution: Research, develop, and, execute a high volume of historical content illustrating NGA's history for both internal and external audiences.   Products include articles, brochures, social media posts, podcast production, website content, museum exhibits, and museum tour guides.
  • Historical Research Center Management: Focus on artifact section, storage, and curation requirements while assisting the NGA Historian in refining internal charge out and external loan procedures for artifacts.  This also includes archival management, artifact curation, and preservation. Key duties include processing, inventorying, and organizing all archival records and historical artifacts, ensuring their proper care and accessibility. Locate new materials and advise government customers on acquisition, preservation, and display possibilities.  Help identify items for deaccession and work the process for proper removal.
  • NGA Museum Management:  Work with other museums on loans, exhibits, artifact solicitation, and advise in acquisition decisions.  This also includes researching, developing, and producing historical displays, posters, exhibits, museum experiences, conducting guided museum tours and any museum specific communications about NGA history program.
  • Internal Collaboration & Oversight: Provide copy editing and quality assurance for all history program products. Support the NGA Historian on inventorying and accountability procedures for historical artifacts in NGA custody to include measurement metrics and assisting in history program audits.

Required Skills:

  • Education: A minimum of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in History, Geography, Library Science, Museum Studies, Museum Science, or a related field.
  • Experience: A minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in the career field of history, geography, library science, museum studies, or museum science role.  In lieu of a bachelor's degree, the candidate must have 8+ years of direct museum practice, artifact preservation, curation, or history-related positions.
  • Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication abilities with an eagerness to draft, edit, and proofread materials.
  • Attention to Detail: A high degree of accuracy and thoroughness when completing tasks such as inventorying and entering records metadata, or recording the origins and significance of archival materials.
  • Organizational Skills: The ability to assist with multiple tasks and prioritize assignments effectively in a fast-paced support role.  Organize archival records and apply the proper classification systems to facilitate access to archival materials.
  • Interpersonal Skills: The ability to build effective working relationships with internal colleagues and community partners.
  • Ability to work independently on assigned tasks while also functioning as a collaborative and reliable team member.
  • Written and Verbal Communication: Strong writing, editing, and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear, accessible language.

Project Coordination: Experience managing smaller projects from start to finish, including coordinating with multiple stakeholders to meet deadlines.

Apply