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Entry Level Copy Editor Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Copy Editor information

See Columbia, MD salary details

$12

$28

$46

How much do entry level copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level copy editor in Columbia, MD is $28.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level copy editor?

Entry level copy editors are professionals who review written content for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and style errors before publication. They ensure that texts are clear, consistent, and adhere to specific editorial guidelines. Often working under supervision, they may fact-check information, rewrite sentences for clarity, and collaborate with writers and senior editors. Entry level positions are ideal for those starting their careers in publishing, journalism, or communications, offering valuable training and experience in the field.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level copy editors in their first year on the job?

Entry level copy editors often encounter challenges such as adapting to different editorial styles, managing tight deadlines, and maintaining accuracy across a large volume of content. They may also need to quickly learn industry-specific terminology and work closely with writers to clarify ambiguities or resolve inconsistencies. Building strong communication skills and seeking feedback from more experienced editors can help overcome these challenges and contribute to professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level copy editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Copy Editor, you need a strong grasp of grammar, punctuation, and style guidelines, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, or a related field. Familiarity with editing tools like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and content management systems (CMS) is often required. Attention to detail, time management, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure that written content is accurate, clear, and consistent, which is crucial for maintaining the quality and credibility of publications.

What is the difference between Entry Level Copy Editor vs Content Writer?

AspectEntry Level Copy EditorContent Writer
Primary RoleReviewing and editing written content for grammar, style, and accuracyCreating original written content for various platforms
Skills RequiredStrong editing, proofreading, and language skillsExcellent writing, research, and storytelling skills
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, media companies, marketing agenciesBlogs, websites, marketing teams, media outlets
Common CertificationsEnglish, Journalism, Communications degrees; editing certificationsWriting courses, journalism degrees, content marketing certifications

While both roles involve strong language skills, an Entry Level Copy Editor primarily focuses on refining existing content, whereas a Content Writer creates original material. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right opportunities in the publishing and content creation industries.

What does an entry level copy editor do?

As an entry-level copy editor, your duties include correcting text for grammar, spelling, and punctuation. In addition to these basic edits, you also read articles to ensure they communicate clearly and correctly and that each piece meets editorial guidelines for the publication or outlet. As an entry-level copy editor, your responsibilities are likely performed within the purview of a larger editing team or under the supervision of a senior editor. Copy editors and writers frequently work together to edit a draft before submitting it to a lead editor.

More about Entry Level Copy Editor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Copy Editor jobs in Columbia, MD? The most popular types of Copy Editor jobs in Columbia, MD are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Copy Editor jobs in Columbia, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Copy Editor jobs in Columbia, MD are:
What cities near Columbia, MD are hiring for Entry Level Copy Editor jobs? Cities near Columbia, MD with the most Entry Level Copy Editor job openings:
Entry Level Copy Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Copy Editor job openings in Columbia, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,354 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Associate

International Development Group Advisory Services LLC

Arlington, VA • On-site

$48K - $51K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description


For this entry-level position, IDG is seeking a passionate, self-driven, and highly organized individual who is willing to learn, take ownership over assigned tasks, engage in new challenges, and quickly "switch gears" and manage multiple priorities. This position reports to the Senior Specialist or Manager. This is a full-time position (40 hours per week) on a hybrid schedule with in-office days Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays in IDG's Arlington VA office and remote on Mondays and Fridays.
The Associate will participate in new business initiatives and under the guidance of a Proposal Manager and the Director of New Business, will serve in numerous supporting roles for proposal teams, including serving as a proposal associate and/or engaging in one or more of the following areas: past performance write-ups, corporate capabilities, resume formatting, expatriate and local personnel recruitment, technical writing support, technical research, cost proposal support, and managing communications with potential and selected subcontractors. The Associate will also be expected to engage in pre-RFP capture activities and research and support other ad-hoc new business activities as requested.
The Associate will also provide support for projects from implementation through closeout. This individual will support a varied portfolio of projects around the world and will work under the guidance of a Senior Specialist or Manager to undertake various financial, contractual, management, and technical assistance tasks. This includes the application of current U.S.G, State, local and host country regulations and laws as well as IDG policies and procedures to contract implementation. The Associate will be expected to review and process monthly field office expenses accurately, draft client approval requests, assist in formatting and copy-editing client deliverables and other project documents, liaise with and support field office operations and finance staff, assist with budget monitoring and financial management, book and manage travel logistics for employees and consultants (airfare, hotels, ground transportation, etc.), and engage in other duties as assigned. The salary range is: $48,450-$51,850
Requirements
  • A minimum of one year of international development, state or local government project support work experience required; previous project coordination experience a plus (operations, logistics, administrative support, etc.).
  • Technical interest and/or background (including academic coursework) in IDG areas of expertise strongly preferred: private sector development, international trade, monitoring and evaluation, public financial management, gender and social inclusion, economics, etc. (see IDG's website for all technical areas).
  • Familiarity with USG, State, Local government or other donor-funded projects are a plus.
  • Proficiency in MS Office, especially Word and Excel; strong Excel and quantitative skills preferred.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills with demonstrated attention to detail.
  • Good interpersonal skills, ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong organization and prioritization skills.
  • Entrepreneurial attitude required to assist business and systems growth.
  • Experience living or working in developing countries a plus.
  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant field required: international development, economics, public administration, etc.
  • Fluency in French, Spanish, Russian, or Arabic is desirable but not required.

Benefits
  • Health Benefits: Medical, Dental and Vision
  • 401k
  • Hybrid work schedule
  • Commuter benefits:
  • Free on-site parking, or
  • Monthly Metro transit subsidy
  • On-site fitness center: Complimentary access to the building's gym facilities.
  • Professional development: Free access to IDG's Learning Management System (LMS) with over 90,000 online courses available to support continuous learning and skill development.

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