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Copy Editing Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

ICF

Technical Writer

Washington, DC · Remote

Demonstrate exceptional editorial skills, including line editing, copy editing, proofreading, and applying plain language. * Correct issues with content structure and organization, grammar, spelling ...

ICF

Quality Assurance Editor - On-call

Reston, VA · Remote

Demonstrated experience editing technical or federal deliverables (e.g., training materials, standards, manuals, guidance documents) * Proven ability to apply and enforce a formal style guide (e.g ...

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 ...

Cooley

Content Integration Manager

Reston, VA · On-site

Copy Editing Workflow: Own the day-to-day copy editing and proofreading process for both editorial and messaging materials, maintaining accuracy and consistency. * Creative Asset Translation:

New

Cooley LLP

Content Integration Manager

Reston, VA · On-site

Copy Editing Workflow: Own the day-to-day copy editing and proofreading process for both editorial and messaging materials, maintaining accuracy and consistency. * Creative Asset Translation:

New

E Logic

Video Production Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$68K/yr

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

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All JobsCopy Editing JobsCopy Editing Jobs in Washington, DC

Copy Editing information

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How much do copy editing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 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.

Senior Manager, Editorial Operations (National Geographic DC)

Disney Cruise Line - The Walt Disney Company

Washington, DC • On-site

$116 - $155/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Role Overview

The Senior Manager, Editorial Operations manages all aspects of production across National Geographic’s editorial platforms. He/she/they is functionally the managing editor of National Geographic magazine and oversees a team that manages all other print products—Nat Geo Kids, Nat Geo Little Kids, National Geographic History, and newsstand special editions—as well as ambitious digital projects for NationalGeographic.com. He/she/they is the key manager of all workflows and the production processes of our content creation, tracking progress and triaging issues as work moves through its lifecycle. Reporting to the VP, Head of Editorial Operations, this department lead plays a critical role not only in driving an efficient operation today but in continually identifying areas for improvement, including the application of technology to our work. This is a terrific opportunity for a strategic, systems-oriented thinker to join a creative organization and have a meaningful impact in a time of evolution and change, as we modernize both our operation and our output and create extraordinary and innovative content.


Responsibilities

  • Manage all print production workflows from end to end (scheduling, issue production, delivery to printer), defining and optimizing process, determining and enforcing deadlines, and troubleshooting delays and other roadblocks to ensure work is completed on time


  • Provide structure and project management for ambitious, high-priority digital features and packages that necessitate involved cross-departmental collaboration


  • Manage the development and maintenance of print editorial calendars, working across the editorial leadership team and proposing adjustments as needed


  • Manage the flow of content across platforms, from print to digital and vice versa, including prioritization, timing, and alignment on direction and level of effort


  • Oversee the application of copy editing and fact-checking teams to print and digital content, ensuring the accuracy of our content through effective prioritization and process


  • Serve as a power user of our production management platform (Airtable) to guarantee that deadlines, tasks, and story details are up-to-date for every article and to ensure Airtable remains a reliable tool for aligning the staff across deliverables and competing priorities



Basic Qualifications

  • 8+ years of working with and managing editorial workflows/processes, preferably in a magazine environment as a Managing Editor or Deputy/Assistant Managing Editor required.


  • 5+ years of experience managing projects that involve 25 or more editors and designers.


  • Experience with and understanding of print products and their associated production processes


  • Experience with and understanding of digital platforms and their associated production processes.


  • Familiarity with copy editing and fact-checking and their associated methodologies and processes.


  • Familiarity with standard publishing tools, such as InCopy/InDesign, and collaboration and project management tools, such as Airtable.


  • Exceptional written and oral communication skills.


  • Exceptional organizational skills, process/systems thinking, and attention to detail.


  • Ability to work with a wide variety of personalities and navigate a highly matrixed organization with aplomb.


  • Ability to maintain a positive demeanor while also enforcing deadlines and adherence to process and policy.


  • Candidate must reside within a reasonable distance to our office in DC. This role requires someone onsite 4 days a week.



Required Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience


Preferred Education

Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or another field that emphasizes writing and reading comprehension


The hiring range for this position in Washington, D.C. is $115,500 to $154,800 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

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