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Copy Editor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Associated Press

Live Blog Editor (Remote)

Carlsbad, CA · On-site +1

$53K - $85K/yr

Strong writing and editing skills with a proven ability to produce clear, accurate and engaging copy on tight deadlines * Familiarity with best practices in SEO, social media strategy and audience ...

Associated Press

Live Blog Editor (Remote)

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$53K - $85K/yr

Strong writing and editing skills with a proven ability to produce clear, accurate and engaging copy on tight deadlines * Familiarity with best practices in SEO, social media strategy and audience ...

New

Codeage

Writer/Editor Intern

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

Responsibilities will include compiling and writing news stories or articles, researching assigned story leads, fact-checking, copy editing, and reviewing editorial submissions Experience with search ...

Codeage

Writer/Editor Intern

Beverly Hills, CA

Responsibilities will include compiling and writing news stories or articles, researching assigned story leads, fact-checking, copy editing, and reviewing editorial submissions Experience with search ...

Spark

Marketing Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Develop Spark written content (web copy, social content, etc.) - serve as company content/copy editor * Develop case studies highlighting Spark's best client work * Identify awards opportunities and ...

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All JobsCopy Editor JobsCopy Editor Jobs in California

Copy Editor information

See California salary details

$12

$28

$46

How much do copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for copy editor in California is $28.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $31.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Copy Editor vs Proofreader?

AspectCopy EditorProofreader
Primary FocusRevises content for clarity, style, and consistencyChecks for grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors
Work StageDuring the editing process before final publicationAfter editing, just before publishing
Skills & CredentialsEditing skills, strong language knowledge, often a degree in English or related fieldAttention to detail, strong grammar skills, often a background in language or journalism
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, media companies, freelancePublishing, printing, online media, freelance

While both Copy Editors and Proofreaders work to improve written content, Copy Editors focus on refining style, structure, and clarity during the editing process. Proofreaders primarily ensure the final text is free of grammatical and typographical errors before publication. Understanding these roles helps in selecting the right professional for your publishing needs.

What does a copy editor do?

A copy editor is responsible for reviewing and correcting written material to ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency. They check for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and style errors, and may also verify facts and improve the flow of the text. Copy editors work with writers and other editors to polish content before publication, whether it's for books, magazines, websites, or other media. Their goal is to enhance the readability and professionalism of the final product.

How much does a copy editor make?

The average salary for a copy editor in the United States ranges from $40,000 to $65,000 per year, 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 also work freelance or remotely, which can affect income levels.

What is a copy editor?

As a copy editor, your responsibilities and duties include reviewing written material, called copy, before it is put into print or posted online. You examine the material for grammar and spelling mistakes and structural errors. You also ensure that the tone, tense, and style meet the guidelines set out by the publisher. If you work in journalism for the copy desk of a news organization, you not only proofread but also fact check and make sure there is no slanderous content. You also check headlines to ensure they are attention grabbing and grammatically correct.

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

To thrive as a Copy Editor, you need a strong command of grammar, punctuation, and style, often backed by a degree in English, journalism, or a related field. Familiarity with editing software such as Adobe InCopy, Microsoft Word's track changes, and style guides like AP or Chicago Manual of Style is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and strong communication skills help Copy Editors excel in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring error-free, clear, and consistent content that meets publication standards and deadlines.

How do copy editors typically collaborate with writers and other editorial team members during the editing process?

Copy editors work closely with writers to clarify meaning, improve readability, and ensure consistency in style and tone. They often communicate suggested changes and questions through tracked edits or comments, fostering open dialogue to refine the content. Collaboration with other editorial team members, such as fact-checkers or managing editors, is also common to ensure accuracy and adherence to publication standards. Regular meetings and digital collaboration tools help maintain workflow efficiency and resolve any editorial concerns promptly.

Are copy editors still in demand?

Copy editors remain in demand as organizations seek to ensure clear, accurate content across digital and print media. The role often requires strong language skills and familiarity with editing tools, with opportunities available in publishing, media, and corporate communications.
More about Copy Editor jobs
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What job categories do people searching Copy Editor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Copy Editor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Copy Editor jobs? Cities in California with the most Copy Editor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Copy Editor jobs in CA? For Copy Editor jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Copy Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Copy Editor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 34% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,026 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Live Blog Editor (Remote)

Associated Press

Carlsbad, CA • On-site, Remote

$53K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 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 is seeking a dynamic Live Blog News Editor to join our growing team of journalists dedicated to engaging digital audiences. If you are passionate about live, real-time news coverage, thrive in fast-paced environments and understand how to reach audiences online, we want to hear from you.
In this role, you will shape and curate real-time coverage for APNews.com, connecting audiences to our journalism through live blogs that are timely, visually compelling and highly engaging. You will collaborate across teams to coordinate live video streams and clips from major events, including breaking news, political speeches, awards shows and ongoing daily coverage.
This role is part of AP's deliberate expansion of its live blog presence. You will work alongside colleagues in U.S. cities and London and play a key role in scaling this growing area of our journalism.
This role is an individual contributor and will report to our News Editor (Head of live blogs).
What you will do:
  • Plan, execute and edit live blogs for breaking news events ensuring real-time updates are timely, accurate and relevant
  • Promote and implement best practices in live blogging across AP's global news gathering and production teams
  • Collaborate with reporters, editors and contributors to maintain a cohesive narrative and compelling presentation
  • Commission and curate visual elements - photos, video and graphics - to strengthen text-based updates
  • Coordinate live video streams and clips for key moments in breaking news and major events
  • Monitor reader interactions and audience signals to foster engagement and respond quickly
  • Optimize live blogs for search by updating SEO fields, headlines and display elements in real time
  • Track performance metrics to refine live blog strategies and improve audience reach
  • Ensure all content meets AP standards for accuracy, clarity, fairness and timeliness
  • Lead training sessions for editors and reporters on live blog best practices and CMS usage

Who you are:
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
  • At least three to five years of experience in digital journalism or live news production
  • Demonstrated experience in digital journalism, live coverage or other real-time digital news formats
  • Exceptional news judgment and ability to make fast, accurate editorial decisions under deadline pressure
  • Strong writing and editing skills with a proven ability to produce clear, accurate and engaging copy on tight deadlines
  • Familiarity with best practices in SEO, social media strategy and audience engagement
  • Experience using content management systems
  • Strong collaboration skills across text, photo, video, audio, digital/social, interactive and graphics teams
  • Proven ability to manage multiple live events and competing priorities simultaneously
  • Commitment to innovation, inclusivity and AP's standards of integrity and objectivity
  • Advanced- level proficiency in written and spoken English; additional languages a plus
  • Ability and willingness to work nights and weekends as coverage demands

What will set you apart:
  • Experience leading newsroom training initiatives or coaching journalists on digital publishing workflows
  • Experience managing coverage of breaking news events, elections, sports, entertainment or other high-profile live events
  • Experience using audience analytics tools
  • Proficiency with video and visual tools such as Adobe Premiere, After Effects, Photoshop and Canva
  • Experience with a/b headline testing, audience engagement strategies and digital optimization techniques
  • Experience working across global or distributed newsrooms
  • Experience curating digital content, including photos, videos and graphics to enhance digital storytelling
  • Strong understanding of audience behaviors across platforms

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 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. Compensation is contingent 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.
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 health resources

Application deadline is August 17, 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.

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