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Copy Editor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Copy Editor

Arlington, VA

$100K - $120K/yr

Stand Together is seeking a strong copy editor-a key player in our mission to elevate writing standards and maintain the integrity of our content across diverse platforms. As a central figure within ...

Copy Editor

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Stand Together is seeking a strong copy editor-a key player in our mission to elevate writing standards and maintain the integrity of our content across diverse platforms. As a central figure within ...

Copy Editor

Arlington, VA

$100K - $120K/yr

Stand Together is seeking a strong copy editor--a key player in our mission to elevate writing standards and maintain the integrity of our content across diverse platforms. As a central figure within ...

The Richmond Times-Dispatch is looking for a versatile multi-media and multi-talented copy editor and page designer who has the traditional skills of the trade - a critical mind, solid command of AP ...

The Richmond Times-Dispatch is looking for a versatile multi-media and multi-talented copy editor and page designer who has the traditional skills of the trade - a critical mind, solid command of AP ...

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 ...

Student will work with creative team of editorial staff, copy editors and design to develop the final product. QUALIFICATIONS AND CREDENTIALSEducation and Experience This position is generally filled ...

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 ...

Perform substantive editing, technical editing, copy editing, and proofreading * Coordinate with action officers, analysts, and senior leaders to improve clarity, accuracy, and effectiveness of ...

Perform substantive editing, technical editing, copy editing, and proofreading * Coordinate with action officers, analysts, and senior leaders to improve clarity, accuracy, and effectiveness of ...

Perform substantive editing, technical editing, copy editing, and proofreading * Coordinate with action officers, analysts, and senior leaders to improve clarity, accuracy, and effectiveness of ...

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Showing results 1-20

Copy Editor information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$28

$46

How much do copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for copy editor in Virginia is $28.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $31.68 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Copy Editor jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Copy Editor jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Copy Editor jobs in Virginia? For Copy Editor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Copy Editor jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Copy Editor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Copy Editor jobs in VA? For Copy Editor jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Copy Editor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,296 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Stand Together is a philanthropic community that helps America's boldest changemakers tackle the root causes of our country's biggest problems, from education to the economy, broken communities, and toxic division, among dozens of other pressing issues. We provide our partners with access to resources including funding, thought leadership, a network of peers, and a playbook for applying proven principles to transform lives and society. 

Stand Together is seeking a strong copy editor-a key player in our mission to elevate writing standards and maintain the integrity of our content across diverse platforms. As a central figure within our copy desk, you'll be critical in refining content as we elevate our community's commitment to quality and consistency in the work we produce. 

In this position, your journalism or communications background will be essential for meticulously refining content. You'll ensure each narrative is grammatically sound and elevates our mission and values while maintaining clarity and eliminating jargon. Your proficiency in managing workflows and expectations will steer content from conceptual drafts to finalized, compelling copy. 

Mastery of a style guide and a proactive approach to its maintenance are essential, along with an appreciation for the smart integration of technology, including AI, to enhance writing quality. To be successful, you must approach work with a collaborative attitude and be adept at coaching authors to come along on an editing journey, focusing on building trust with a wide swath of internal stakeholders. 

How You Will Contribute
  • 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 standards and quality across all content.
  • Collaborate across teams, offering guidance and support to writers and editors, ensuring content reflects our voice and adheres to high standards.
  • Manage content workflows and processes to optimize efficiency and meet organizational goals.
  • Proactively engage with content creators, acting as a supportive challenger and ensuring resources are aptly utilized.
What You Will Bring
  • Proven experience in a copyediting role, preferably in a fast-paced editorial environment.
  • Strong understanding of digital content creation, with an ability to distill complex information into engaging, audience-specific content.
  • Excellent command of language with an ability to enforce and abide by style guide standards.
  • The ability to evaluate copy for voice and tone, especially when optimizing for different audiences, including donors.
  • Adept at collaboration and capable of fostering a team environment that encourages innovation and excellence.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, maintaining precision and attention to detail.
  • Experience developing workflows and copy operations is a plus. 
  • Enthusiasm to contribute to Stand Together's vision and principled approach to solving problems, and a commitment to stewarding our culture, which champions values including transformation and innovation, entrepreneurialism, humility, and respect.  
What We Offer
  • Competitive benefits: Enjoy a 6% 401(k) match with immediate vesting, flexible time off, comprehensive health and dental plans, plus wellness and mental health support through Peloton and Talkspace. 
  • A meaningful career: Join a passionate community of over 1,300 employees dedicated to improving lives and driving innovative solutions to complex social challenges. 
  • Commitment to growth: Thrive in a non-hierarchical environment that empowers employees to discover, develop and apply their unique talents. 
  • Competitive compensation: Our approach rewards the value you create through competitive salaries and bonus opportunities, allowing you to share in the success you help drive.  
$100,000 - $120,000 a year

For this role, the anticipated base salary range is $100,000 - $120,000 per year. This role may also be eligible for additional bonus compensation designed to align total compensation with an employee's overall contribution to the organization.

Our Principles-Based Management (PBM) compensation philosophy is grounded in an individualized approach that rewards the long-term value each person creates for the organization. Compensation decisions are informed by a variety of factors, including relevant experience, capabilities, demonstrated skills, role responsibilities, and expected contribution. Consistent with this approach, base salary may vary within or outside of the anticipated range based on these considerations.

Our Values: Working for an organization within the Stand Together philanthropic community is different from many other places. The culture is deeply rooted in Principle Based Management (PBM), a framework guided by the principles that drive human progress, such as dignity, openness, and bottom-up empowerment. PBM empowers employees to be entrepreneurial, to innovate, and to continually drive transformation.   
 
We believe diversity fuels creativity, broadens knowledge, and helps drive success.  That is why we're proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and strive to treat all employees and applicants with honesty, dignity, and respect.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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