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Copy Editor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

This editor will lead a team of reporters covering the Des Moines community, including city hall, suburban, neighborhood and public safety news, helping reporters break exclusive news, cultivate deep ...

Editing copy for factual accuracy, grammar, punctuation, readability, flow, and style, and applying SEO and GEO best practices * Leveraging generative AI per firm and team policies and standards, as ...

Editing copy for factual accuracy, grammar, punctuation, readability, flow, and style, and applying SEO and GEO best practices * Leveraging generative AI per firm and team policies and standards, as ...

Multiplatform producer Lee Enterprises | Quad-City Times (Davenport, Iowa) Lee Enterprises is seeking a detail-oriented digital producer-copy editor to support the Quad-City Times and assist coverage ...

Multiplatform producer Lee Enterprises | Quad-City Times (Davenport, Iowa) Lee Enterprises is seeking a detail-oriented digital producer-copy editor to support the Quad-City Times and assist coverage ...

This editor will lead a team of reporters covering the Des Moines community, including city hall, suburban, neighborhood and public safety news, helping reporters break exclusive news, cultivate deep ...

Video Editor (Post-Production Focus) Omni Digital Group is an advertising firm based in Coralville, IA. What makes us different? Our people, our tech, and our process. We have world-class people ...

Video Editor

Coralville, IA · On-site

$42K - $47K/yr

Video Editor (Post-Production Focus) Omni Digital Group is an advertising firm based in Coralville, IA. What makes us different? Our people, our tech, and our process. We have world-class people ...

This editor will lead a team of reporters covering the Des Moines community, including city hall, suburban, neighborhood and public safety news, helping reporters break exclusive news, cultivate deep ...

Video Editor

Coralville, IA · On-site

$42K - $47K/yr

Video Editor (Post-Production Focus) Omni Digital Group is an advertising firm based in Coralville, IA. What makes us different? Our people, our tech, and our process. We have world-class people ...

Multiplatform producer Lee Enterprises | Quad-City Times (Davenport, Iowa) Lee Enterprises is seeking a detail-oriented digital producer-copy editor to support the Quad-City Times and assist coverage ...

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Showing results 1-20

Copy Editor information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$27

$44

How much do copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for copy editor in Iowa is $27.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.77 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a copywriter editor do?

A copy editor reviews and revises written content to ensure clarity, accuracy, grammar, and consistency. They often work with writers to improve style and tone, and may use editing tools like style guides or editing software as part of their process.

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 work opportunities are common in the field.

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.

Is copyediting being replaced by AI?

Copy editing is increasingly supported by AI tools that assist with grammar, style, and consistency, but human copy editors remain essential for nuanced judgment, context, and creativity. AI can improve efficiency and accuracy, but it does not fully replace the critical thinking and editorial skills of a professional copy editor.

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 varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $40,000 to $65,000 annually. Entry-level copy editors may earn around $35,000, while experienced professionals can make over $70,000, especially with specialized skills or in high-demand industries.

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Copy Editor jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Copy Editor jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Copy Editor jobs in Iowa? For Copy Editor jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Copy Editor jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Copy Editor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Copy Editor jobs in IA? For Copy Editor jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Copy Editor job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 40% Contract. Highlights an 39% In-person, and 61% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,176 per year, or $27 per hour.
Communities Editor

Communities Editor

Gannett Co., Inc.

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Gannett rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 65 rated media


Job description

|Current USA TODAY Co. Employees- Please ensure you are using our abbreviated process on the internal Careers site by logging into Dayforce through MyApps|
USA TODAY Co., Inc. is a diversified media company with expansive reach at the national and local level dedicated to empowering and enriching communities. We seek to inspire, inform, and connect audiences as a sustainable, growth focused media and digital marketing solutions company. Through our trusted brands, including the USA TODAY NETWORK, comprised of the national publication, USA TODAY, and local media organizations, including our network of local properties, in the United States, and Newsquest, a wholly-owned subsidiary operating in the United Kingdom, we provide essential journalism, local content, and digital experiences to audiences and businesses. We deliver high-quality, trusted content with a commitment to balanced, unbiased journalism, where and when consumers want to engage. Our digital marketing solutions brand, LocaliQ, supports small and medium-sized businesses with innovative digital marketing products and solutions. USA TODAY Co. open roles are featured on various external job boards. When applying to a position at USA TODAY Co., you should be completing an application on USA TODAY Co. Careers via Dayforce. Job postings directing you to complete an application on other external sites may not be valid. To connect with us, visit www.usatodayco.com
The Des Moines Register/desmoinesregister.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, seeks a dynamic, results-driven editor to lead the communities news staff in producing impactful work that will make a difference for readers.
This editor will lead a team of reporters covering the Des Moines community, including city hall, suburban, neighborhood and public safety news, helping reporters break exclusive news, cultivate deep sourcing and develop explanatory and investigative reports. It requires a mentor who can help reporters improve their newsgathering and writing skills and take on ever-more sophisticated work.
The editor will use metrics and audience research to guide decisions about covering topics and issues that will drive digital audience growth. A successful candidate will embrace the latest developments in video, digital technology, social media and AI and will experiment with innovative approaches to draw in new audiences.
The job requires a problem solver who is well-organized, can work independently and exercise solid news judgment.
They will report to the Des Moines Register's executive and will collaborate with other editors to plan and execute local and statewide news and information.
The Des Moines Register is a 17-time Pulitzer Prize winner that is recognized nationally for the quality of reporting. The Register offers an opportunity to build a career path in Iowa or to gain the foundation to move on to top metros across the country.
Responsibilities:
  • Help the staff hone skills in a wide range of storytelling: from real time digital updates to narrative storytelling to investigative reporting, employing alternative story forms and multimedia.
  • Use metrics and analytics to determine how to best reach and grow the audience.
  • Increase digital audience and engagement and grow digital subscriptions.
  • Be a teacher, not just an editor. After all, everyone needs a coach.
  • Be courageous about experimentation.
  • Be a team player who likes to collaborate with coworkers.
  • Serve as an ambassador to the community on the Register's behalf.
  • Apply innovative, creative thinking to support the company's goals.

Requirements:
  • Bachelor's or master's in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 5 years of experience in journalism writing, editing or management roles and demonstration of strong editing skills.
  • Solid news judgment.
  • Top-notch planning, organizational and time management skills.
  • Understanding of metrics, social-media and SEO.
  • Self-motivation and self-direction.
  • Ability to multi-task and excel under intense deadline pressure in a rapidly changing environment.

Application Instructions
We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don't limit your upload to a resume; show us what you've done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order:
  1. Your resume - one to two pages.
  2. A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
  3. Please include examples of work you have edited or planned that shows what you have done.

It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.
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USA TODAY Co., Inc. is a proud equal opportunity employer committed to building and maintaining a diverse workforce. As such, we will consider all qualified applicants for employment and do not discriminate in connection with employment decisions on the basis of an applicant or employee's race, color, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, citizenship status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, marital status, personal appearance (including height and weight), sexual orientation, family responsibilities, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy status (including childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), education, genetic characteristics or information, political affiliation, military or veteran status or other classifications protected by applicable federal, state and local laws in the jurisdictions where USA TODAY Co. employs employees. In addition, USA TODAY Co., Inc. will provide applicants who require a reasonable accommodation, as a result of an applicant's disability or religion, to complete this employment application and/or any other process in connection with an individuals' application for employment with USA TODAY Co., Inc. Applicants who require such accommodation should contact USA TODAY Co., Inc.'s Recruitment Department at Recruit@usatodayco.com. Applicants must be authorized to work in the applicable location. Applications from outside these regions will be removed from our system after submission.

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