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Copy Editor Jobs in Columbus, GA (NOW HIRING)

leeenterprises

Alabama Editor

Opelika, AL

Alabama editor Lee Enterprises, a leading provider of local news serving 114 markets across 25 states, is seeking an editor to lead the Opelika-Auburn News and Dothan Eagle. This is an opportunity to ...

leeenterprises

Alabama Editor

Opelika, AL

Alabama editor Lee Enterprises, a leading provider of local news serving 114 markets across 25 states, is seeking an editor to lead the Opelika-Auburn News and Dothan Eagle. This is an opportunity to ...

Lee Enterprises

Alabama Editor

Opelika, AL · On-site

Alabama editor Lee Enterprises, a leading provider of local news serving 114 markets across 25 states, is seeking an editor to lead the Opelika-Auburn News and Dothan Eagle. This is an opportunity to ...

All JobsCopy Editor JobsCopy Editor Jobs in Columbus, GA

Copy Editor information

See Columbus, GA salary details

$11

$25

$42

How much do copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for copy editor in Columbus, GA is $25.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a copy editor?

To become a copy editor, you typically need a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field, along with strong language and editing skills. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level editing positions and becoming proficient with editing tools like Microsoft Word or style guides such as the AP or Chicago Manual of Style can improve job prospects.

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.

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 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 can make over $80,000, especially in specialized fields or with advanced skills in editing software.

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 across publishing, media, and corporate sectors due to the ongoing need for clear, accurate content. Skills in grammar, style, and familiarity with editing tools like Microsoft Word or content management systems are valuable, and demand is steady despite digital content growth. The role often requires attention to detail and sometimes certification or experience in specific style guides.
More about Copy Editor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Copy Editor jobs in Columbus, GA? The most popular types of Copy Editor jobs in Columbus, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Copy Editor jobs in Columbus, GA? For Copy Editor jobs in Columbus, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Columbus, GA are hiring for Copy Editor jobs? Cities near Columbus, GA with the most Copy Editor job openings:
Copy Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Copy Editor job openings in Columbus, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,536 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Alabama Editor

leeenterprises

Opelika, AL

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Alabama editor 
 
Lee Enterprises, a leading provider of local news serving 114 markets across 25 states, is seeking an editor to lead the Opelika-Auburn News and Dothan Eagle.
This is an opportunity to lead two respected Alabama newsrooms, shape coverage that matters and build strong connections with the communities we serve. The editor will oversee daily and enterprise journalism, audience growth and newsroom development while helping both organizations succeed in a digital-first environment.
WHAT YOU’LL DO 
Lead the news report
  • Set coverage priorities and direct daily and enterprise reporting.
  • Ensure coverage is timely, accurate, fair and relevant to local readers.
  • Champion accountability, watchdog and public-service journalism.
Grow audiences and subscriptions
  • Use audience data, reader feedback and analytics to guide coverage decisions.
  • Expand readership through strong storytelling, newsletters, social media and multimedia journalism.
  • Strengthen subscriber loyalty by delivering journalism readers can't find elsewhere.
Represent the newsroom in the community
  • Serve as a visible leader through editor columns, public events and community conversations.
  • Build relationships with readers, sources, local leaders and community organizations.
  • Listen to community concerns and ensure they are reflected in coverage.
Develop journalists
  • Recruit, coach and retain talented reporters and editors.
  • Foster a collaborative, accountable newsroom culture.
  • Help staff strengthen digital, visual and audience-engagement skills.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR 
  • Leadership experience in a newsroom environment.
  • Strong news judgment and a commitment to community journalism.
  • Success managing coverage across digital, social and print platforms.
  • Experience using audience insights and analytics to guide strategy.
  • A track record of developing journalists and building effective teams.
  • Excellent communication skills and an interest in community engagement.
  • The ability to balance daily demands with long-term newsroom goals.
If you're passionate about local news, audience growth and leading journalists through a period of transformation and opportunity, we'd like to hear from you.
 

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