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Entry Level Proofreader Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Proofreader information

See Boston, MA salary details

$14

$30

$47

How much do entry level proofreader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level proofreader in Boston, MA is $30.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.21 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to become a proofreader?

Entry-level proofreaders typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and strong language skills, including excellent grammar, spelling, and attention to detail. Some employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree or coursework in English, journalism, or related fields, and familiarity with editing tools or style guides is beneficial.

Are proofreaders still in demand?

Proofreaders, including entry-level roles, are still in demand as companies and publishers require quality control for written content. Skills in grammar, attention to detail, and familiarity with editing tools are important, and remote opportunities are common in this field.

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.

How do I get hired as a proofreader?

To get hired as an entry-level proofreader, you should develop strong language and grammar skills, often demonstrated through a high school diploma or equivalent. Gaining experience with editing tools like Microsoft Word or Google Docs and building a portfolio of sample work can improve your chances; some employers also prefer candidates with certification from proofreading courses or relevant training programs.

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.

How do I become a proofreader with no experience?

Entry-level proofreaders can start by developing strong language and grammar skills through self-study, online courses, or reading extensively. Gaining familiarity with editing tools like Microsoft Word or Google Docs and building a portfolio of sample work can help demonstrate competence to potential employers or clients.

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 does an entry level proofreader do?

An entry level proofreader reviews written documents to identify and correct errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting. They ensure that content is clear, consistent, and free from mistakes before it is published or shared. Proofreaders often work with a style guide and closely follow client or company standards. This role is a starting point in the editing and publishing industry, providing valuable experience with text review and attention to detail.
What are the most commonly searched types of Proofreader jobs in Boston, MA? The most popular types of Proofreader jobs in Boston, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Proofreader jobs in Boston, MA? For Entry Level Proofreader jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Proofreader jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Proofreader jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Entry Level Proofreader jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Entry Level Proofreader job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Proofreader job openings in Boston, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,489 per year, or $30 per hour.
Merchandise Specialist-Framingham, MA

Merchandise Specialist-Framingham, MA

Staples, Inc.

Framingham, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Staples rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 626 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

425th of 728 rated retailers


Job description


The Merchandise Specialist at Staples Retail is transforming modern working and learning. Our Omni Merchandising organization offers entry-level opportunities with training, mentoring, and promotional opportunities to grow within the Merchandising team. Starting as a Merchandising Specialist, you will learn about competitive analysis, promotional planning, market research, identifying trends and new products, SKU set-up/maintenance, proofing marketing assets, website metrics, and more. Our people are the heart of our success, and we believe in collaboration, curiosity, and continuous learning in all that we think, create, and do. You will gain exposure to a wide variety of cross-functional teams, including Merchandising, Marketing, Inventory Planning, Store Operations, eCommerce, and Stores, to name a few.
Learn about and impact store merchandise and sales:
  • Attend vendor meetings to collaborate on business plans and gain exposure to new products
  • Conduct market research, gather industry data, track trends, competitive shopping
  • Work with vendors and internal teams to launch new to market products, vendor program agreements and price change worksheets
  • Obtain samples and assist with POG and Promo set up in our in-house Lab
  • Manage the approval process for all physical and digital marketing assets
  • Proactively manage the SKU and Vendor set up and maintenance process
  • Process product returns, price changes, price protection, coupons/rebates, and markdowns
  • Source financial data and reports, to review sales performance with Buyer
  • Answer communication from stores on products and vendors; other responsibilities as assigned

Essential skills and experience:
  • Currently pursuing or recently completed (within the last 1-2 years) a Bachelor's degree in Business, Merchandising, Finance, or a related field; recent college grads welcome to apply
  • Strong Microsoft Office skills, especially Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, SUMIF, IFERROR)
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Strong math skills
  • Interest in merchandising
  • Enjoy working in teams and being highly communicative
  • Ability to multi-task and be flexible to new initiatives

Get great perks.
  • Generous amount of paid time off, including one Floating Holiday each year
  • Flexible work arrangements, including flexible work hours
  • 401(k) plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance with many more optional benefits
  • Associate store discount and more perks (discounts on mobile plans, movie tickets, etc.)

The salary range represents the expected compensation for this role at the time of posting. The specific base pay may be influenced by a variety of factors to include the candidate's experience, skill set, education, business considerations, geography, and internal equity.
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About Us
The world of working and learning has changed. This is your opportunity to be a part of a brand transformation and growth strategy within the retail industry. Staples is helping our customers and community discover innovative products, services, and inspiration that unlock what's possible, while empowering you to unlock your potential. Our people are the heart of our success and there has never been a better time to join us as we lead the way in a new era of working and learning.
Want to learn more about Staples Stores? Visit RetailCareers.Staples.com for information and to learn about our career opportunities.
Click here to learn more about the employee benefits, programs and perks offered at Staples!
Staples is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.
Staples is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please call 1-888-490-4747 for more information.
Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act; as well as with any other state and local Fair Chance Ordinance/Act regulations.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

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