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Copy Editor Jobs in Madison, AL (NOW HIRING)

Ignite Now

FUTURES ANALYST/EDITOR

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Expertise in drafting, rewriting, and editing complex technical and strategic manuscripts into publication-ready copy. * Strong proficiency in English grammar, syntax, style, and editorial standards.

MLS Technologies

Technical Writer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Strong writing, editing, and grammar skills, with a focus on producing concise, user-friendly documentation. *Excellent research and analytical skills to support document accuracy and technical ...

MLS Technologies

Technical Writer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Strong writing, editing, and grammar skills, with a focus on producing concise, user-friendly documentation. * Excellent research and analytical skills to support document accuracy and technical ...

Recruiting Engine (MLS)

Technical Writer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$50 - $65/hr

Strong writing, editing, and grammar skills, with a focus on producing concise, user-friendly documentation. * Excellent research and analytical skills to support document accuracy and technical ...

Our Company

Technical Writer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Participate in comprehensive document review and editing of peer documents. * Responsible for reporting progress of all assigned tasks to the project lead and ensuring files are kept up to date and ...

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Copy Editor information

See Madison, AL salary details

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$42

How much do copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for copy editor in Madison, AL is $25.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $28.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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. Strong editing skills, familiarity with style guides, and proficiency with editing tools like Microsoft Word or Adobe InCopy enhance job prospects in this field.

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.
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For Copy Editor jobs in Madison, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Copy Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Copy Editor job openings in Madison, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,587 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

FUTURES ANALYST/EDITOR

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Ignite Now
See more jobs at Ignite Nowexternal

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Author original analytic papers on the future operating environment, emerging technologies, strategic competition, and operational implications.

  • Edit and refine team-produced papers to ensure clarity, rigor, and decision relevance.

  • Research and apply advanced analytical techniques, provide data visualization, and develop analytic strategies to meet customer requirements.

Job description

Job Title

FUTURES ANALYST/EDITOR

Location Category

Information Technology

Job Type

Full-Time

Experienced (Non-Manager)

Education

Master's Degree

Security Clearance Required

Secret

Job Description

Ignite is an ISO 9001:2015 and CMMI Services Level 3 certified, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), headquartered in Huntsville, AL. By design, Ignite is a provider of professional services to customers in the education, federal, and commercial industries and, in every action, seeks to be the preeminent provider in this space. Ignite upholds our values of competency, collaboration, innovation, reliability, and results through everything we do.

Ignite is currently seeking a driven Futures Analyst and Editor to join our team! In this role, you will support the Space Warfighting and Analysis Center and Concepts and Technology Delta, working to develop the future operating environment (FOE) for the United States Space Force. You will be working with a team of cross-disciplinary SMEs spanning engineering, intel, law, economics, and international relations. This position is designed for a rising leader in strategic analysis and professional writing who can produce and refine high-impact papers that directly inform decisions made by senior Space Force leadership

Job Requirements

The FOE Futures writer and analyst will develop and complete original analytic papers on the Space Future Operating Environment and serve as an editor and ensure quality control for team products. This role demands expertise in analytic tradecraft, rigorous methodology, and persuasive national security writing. Products must be decision-oriented, operationally relevant, and defensible under scrutiny at the Space Force, Joint Force, and Intelligence Community levels. This position will be located in Huntsville, AL, Colorado Springs, CO, or in the National Capital Region. Huntsville, AL, is the preferred location.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Strategic Writing & Editorial Leadership
  • Author original analytic papers on future operating environment topics, emerging technologies, strategic competition, and operational implications.
  • Edit and refine papers produced by team members to ensure clarity, rigor, logic, and decision relevance.
  • Translate complex technical, statistical, and operational findings into clear, concise, persuasive narratives.
  • Query authors to constructively resolve ambiguity, strengthen arguments, and eliminate unsupported assertions.
  • Prepare papers suitable for publication, formal briefing, and integration into the Future Operating Environment.
Analytic Methodology & Data Integration
  • Research and apply advanced analytical techniques to complex problems in the space domain.
  • Provide database consultation, graphical data visualization, and recommendations for quantitative data selection and integration.
  • Develop analytic strategies to meet customer requirements and resolve knowledge gaps.
  • Interact with analysts, mission partners, and FOE stakeholders to enhance analytic products and integration.
  • Facilitate analytic discussions, red team events, or scenario-based brainstorming as required.
Job Requirements and Qualifications: Required Qualifications Strategic Writing & Editorial Expertise
  • Expertise in drafting, rewriting, and editing complex technical and strategic manuscripts into publication-ready copy.
  • Strong proficiency in English grammar, syntax, style, and editorial standards.
  • Ability to ensure continuity, lucidity, and precision in complex subject matter.
  • Strong editorial judgment and ability to query authors for clarity and rigor.
  • Strong grasp of at least one or more areas of expertise, such as U.S. Joint Doctrine, Technological Transformation, Threat Assessment, Red Teaming, Economic and Trade Analysis, Supply Chain analysis, or core scientific understanding of a related field such as astrophysics, optics, complexity, or systems theory.
Analytic & Methodological Expertise
  • Ability to identify, retrieve, manipulate, and exploit multiple datasets.
  • Expertise in applying analytic tools to build models, visualize data, and perform systems or comparative analysis.
  • Ability to break down and analyze complex, ambiguous problems.
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
  • Ability to lead discussions using influence rather than positional authority.
  • Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
Desired Qualifications
  • PACE and CDASA certification, or similar certifications.
  • Experience with formal Futures Analysis methodologies such as Manoa Futures, foresight, scenario planning, horizon scanning, or backcasting.
  • Experience with military operations in the space domain.
  • Experience evaluating emerging technologies for use in military force design acquisition.
  • Experience integrating advanced analytics and AI/ML outputs into reports and papers.
  • Experience leading Red Teams or Analysis of Alternatives.
  • Research experience in international affairs and/or military history.
  • Experience with statistical analysis and visualization tools.
  • Experience working across national-level defense organizations (USSF, Military Services, CCMDs, JCS).
  • Knowledge of Chinese military, culture and language.
  • Prior experience in commercial news or editorial environments.
What Success Looks Like

Within the first year, the employee will:

  • Elevate the clarity and rigor of all team products.
  • Become a trusted editor for senior-facing deliverables.
  • Demonstrate the ability to anticipate senior leader questions and structure papers accordingly.
  • Integrate quantitative and qualitative analysis seamlessly into narrative strategy products.
Security Clearance Requirements:

Must have an active Secret Security Clearance

Other Requirements:
  • A minimum of two writing samples will be required for consideration for this position.

We are equal opportunity/affirmative action employers, committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under state or local law.

Accommodation Request:

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or is a disabled veteran and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our Careers sites as a result of your disability, you have the right to receive assistance in completing the application process. Please send your request to IgniteHR@IgniteNow.Net

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