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Entry Level Proofreader Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Proofreader information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$26

$42

How much do entry level proofreader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level proofreader in Illinois is $26.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $32.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level proofreader do?

As an entry-level proofreader, your primary duties include making sure a piece of writing follows the correct style guide and proofreading for errors in spelling, punctuation, and grammar. You read the written copy and make sure that the writer makes all necessary editorial changes. Your responsibilities involve working on new copy and going back to ensure that existing material meets new editorial standards as they roll out. You look at the layout of the work as well to ensure they used the right paragraph size, margins, spacing, and image layout. Your employer may also give you a role in copyediting, which involves editing for content and flow.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Proofreader, you need excellent command of grammar, punctuation, and spelling, often supported by a bachelor's degree in English, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with word processing software, style guides like AP or Chicago, and document editing tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong concentration, and time management are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure error-free content and efficient workflow, which are critical for maintaining high editorial standards.

What are common challenges faced by entry level proofreaders, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level proofreaders often encounter challenges such as adapting to different style guides, maintaining focus during repetitive tasks, and managing tight deadlines. To overcome these, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with the most commonly used style manuals (like AP or Chicago), develop strong attention to detail, and use checklists to ensure consistency. Additionally, communicating regularly with editors and writers can clarify expectations and help you quickly learn preferred practices, ultimately making the transition smoother.

What is the difference between Entry Level Proofreader vs Copy Editor?

AspectEntry Level ProofreaderCopy Editor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer a degree in English or related fieldSimilar; often requires a degree in English, journalism, or related field
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, media companies, freelancePublishing, media, corporate communications
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in publishing and media industriesUsed across publishing, marketing, and corporate sectors
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level roles focusing on basic proofreadingCompared for editing depth and scope

Entry Level Proofreaders primarily focus on checking for grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors, ensuring text accuracy. Copy Editors perform more comprehensive editing, including style, tone, and content consistency. While both roles require strong language skills and similar credentials, Copy Editors typically handle more complex editing tasks and may require additional experience or training.

What are the most commonly searched types of Proofreader jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Proofreader jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Proofreader jobs in Illinois?

For Entry Level Proofreader jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Proofreader jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Proofreader job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Proofreader job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,738 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Design and Production Associate

Mancomm, Inc.

Rock Island, IL • On-site

$17.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Mancomm — Rock Island, IL (In-Office) Full-Time | Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (flex schedule including evenings/weekends during high-production periods)

Compensation

$17.50/hour

About the Role

Mancomm, a printing company, is hiring a Design and Production Associate to support our shipping, printing, and design operations. This role is hands-on and varied — you'll help produce, prepare, and ship the work that goes out our door every day.

Requirements

Responsibilities
  • Operating printing equipment/presses
  • Monitoring print jobs for quality and consistency
  • Performing routine equipment maintenance/troubleshooting
  • Preparing print-ready files (formatting, color correction, layout)
  • Basic graphic design support for print projects
  • Proofing designs/files before print run
  • Packaging finished print orders
  • Preparing shipping labels/documentation
  • Coordinating with carriers or tracking outbound shipments
Qualifications
  • Entry-level — no prior experience required
  • No degree or certification required
Skills
  • Adobe InDesign experience preferred (not required)
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to stand for extended periods
Apply Today