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Copy Editor Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Assignment Editor WMTW-TV, the ABC affiliate in Portland, Maine has an opening for someone who wants to win each day in the role of Assignment Editor . You can capture the essence of what's happening ...

Have writing and copy-editing skills * Coordinate several crews and responsibilities simultaneously * Experience summarizing information into easy-to-understand components * Creative presentation ...

Have writing and copy-editing skills * Coordinate several crews and responsibilities simultaneously * Experience summarizing information into easy-to-understand components * Creative presentation ...

Have writing and copy-editing skills * Coordinate several crews and responsibilities simultaneously * Experience summarizing information into easy-to-understand components * Creative presentation ...

Have writing and copy-editing skills * Coordinate several crews and responsibilities simultaneously * Experience summarizing information into easy-to-understand components * Creative presentation ...

Have writing and copy-editing skills * Coordinate several crews and responsibilities simultaneously * Experience summarizing information into easy-to-understand components * Creative presentation ...

Have writing and copy-editing skills * Coordinate several crews and responsibilities simultaneously * Experience summarizing information into easy-to-understand components * Creative presentation ...

Have writing and copy-editing skills * Coordinate several crews and responsibilities simultaneously * Experience summarizing information into easy-to-understand components * Creative presentation ...

Local News Producer

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$42K - $45K/yr

Have writing and copy-editing skills * Coordinate several crews and responsibilities simultaneously * Experience summarizing information into easy-to-understand components * Creative presentation ...

Local News Producer

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$42K - $45K/yr

Have writing and copy-editing skills * Coordinate several crews and responsibilities simultaneously * Experience summarizing information into easy-to-understand components * Creative presentation ...

Local News Producer

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$42K - $45K/yr

Have writing and copy-editing skills * Coordinate several crews and responsibilities simultaneously * Experience summarizing information into easy-to-understand components * Creative presentation ...

Copy Editor information

See Portland, ME salary details

$12

$29

$48

How much do copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for copy editor in Portland, ME is $29.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.64 and $32.74 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 Portland, ME? The most popular types of Copy Editor jobs in Portland, ME are:
Infographic showing various Copy Editor job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 57% In-person, and 43% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,210 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Hearst rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 76 rated media


Job description

Assignment Editor

WMTW-TV, the ABC affiliate in Portland, Maine has an opening for someone who wants to win each day in the role of Assignment Editor. You can capture the essence of what's happening in the community and help to bring it home to our viewers. You will have a take charge attitude for breaking news. You find distinctive enterprise stories and oversee news coverage. As a newsroom leader your impact sets us apart. You will report to the News Director.

Responsibilities

  • Listen to multiple police scanners which cover more than a dozen agencies throughout our market-must have great "scanner ears"
  • Gather and organize press releases, emails, phone calls and viewer tips. Decide which of the above will yield compelling content for newscasts
  • Assist news management with content gathering and planning
  • Assist producers, digital editors and reporters with story gathering
  • Keep track of crews in the field and communicate with them
  • Furnish content and post it to all digital platforms-including sending push alerts, Twitter and Facebook post

Requirements

  • Experience listening to police scanners
  • Experience with digital platforms, especially social media. You will monitor multiple social media accounts to gather content and communicate with news makers
  • Either have a working knowledge of FTP or will learn how to FTP video to other stations
  • Familiar with local newsgathering technology and terminology
  • Will maintain professional working relationships with newsmakers
  • Can gather information from multiple sources simultaneously and quickly push it out to anchors, reporters, producers, and digital editors
  • Be able to remain calm and level-headed during breaking news situations
  • Willing to work a variety of shifts including weekends and nights
  • Related military experience will be considered
  • In-person attendance is required

Values In Action

At Hearst Television we tell stories every day. Stories about people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and identities. That's why, behind the scenes, we believe in being an organization that fosters collaboration and open communication, ensuring that the content we create is authentic, accurate, and connected to the communities we serve.

Benefits

Hearst's benefit programs are modern, flexible and designed to focus on you. As a Hearst employee, you and your spouse or partner or dependents would have access to the following benefits.

  • Medical | Dental | Vision
  • 401(k) matching
  • Emotional Wellness Support
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • LGBTQ+ Health Services
  • Additional benefits to meet your and your family's needs
Hearst Television (HTV) owns and/or operates 35 television and two radio stations serving 27 media markets across 39 states reaching over 22 million U.S. television households. HTV is recognized as one of the industry's premier broadcasting companies and has been honored with numerous awards for distinguished journalism, industry innovation, and community service.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. we do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, creed, national, origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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