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Copy Editor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

C2 Technologies

Senior Content Editor

Arlington, VA

Senior Content Editor C² Technologies seeks a Senior Content Editor to ensure the quality of written content for use in online and classroom training products. The Senior Content Editor will be ...

SOSi

Editor with Security Clearance

Reston, VA

The Editor will be the final quality control for translations and serial products before dissemination. The Editor will support a larger team and will be the authoritative expert of the Client stye ...

SOSi

Editor with Security Clearance

Reston, VA

The Editor will be the final quality control for translations and serial products before dissemination. The Editor will support a larger team and will be the authoritative expert of the Client stye ...

CACI International, Inc.

Technical Editor

Sterling, VA · On-site

$70K - $148K/yr

Technical Editor Job Category: Engineering and Technical Support Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start: TS/SCI with Polygraph Employee Type: Regular Percentage of Travel Required:

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Copy Editor information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$28

$46

How much do copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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.

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.
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Copy Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Copy Editor job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 81% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,296 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Document Editor

Engineering Services Network (ESN)

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Founded in 1995, ESN is a Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB), Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) and Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB).ESN delivers trusted solutions that support our nation's defense. For more than two decades, we have been providing our military and government customers with mission-critical services including engineering and technical support,strategic and program management,testing and evaluation,operations support, andinformation technology. We are committed to proven, repeatable corporate quality management processes and are certified CMMI Maturity Level III - Development/Services & ISO 9001:2015.


Job Requirements

We are seeking a Document Editor.

This job is located at our regional office in Chesapeake, VA.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Entry level position responsible for editing U.S. Navy and Coast Guard technical documents and drawings. Candidate will also translate, convert, and edit technical documentation.

Qualifications/Education:

High School diploma and minimum two years of related experience are required.

Candidate must have good verbal and written communication, problem-solving, analytical, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

Must be able to work well alone and as part of a team. Ability to follow instructions is required.

Security Clearance:

  • Must hold an active Department of Defense (DoD) Secret clearance, or the ability to obtain one.

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