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Entry Level Proofreader Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Research Innovations

Production Technician

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

This is not an entry-level role; we need a hands-on specialist with experience in the aerospace or ... Execute water and dust proofing techniques for cable assemblies to ensure durability in harsh ...

All JobsProofreader JobsEntry Level Proofreader JobsEntry Level Proofreader Jobs in Reston, VA

Entry Level Proofreader information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$28

$45

How much do entry level proofreader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level proofreader in Reston, VA is $28.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.25 and $35.00 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.
More about Entry Level Proofreader jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Proofreader jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Proofreader jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Entry Level Proofreader jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Entry Level Proofreader job openings:
Entry Level Proofreader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Proofreader job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,841 per year, or $28.8 per hour.
Production Technician

Production Technician

Research Innovations

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Production Technician 

Location: Alexandria, VA

Clearance Requirement: Candidate must have the ability to obtain a U.S. security clearance

Employment type: Full Time

Research Innovations, Inc. (RII) is breaking through the big, slow status quo with transformative technology that fundamentally improves the world. We build advanced software solutions for government and military missions, applying agile development and user-centered design to solve complex, mission-critical problems.

RII is seeking an experienced Production Technician to join our SIGINT/EW team. This is not an entry-level role; we need a hands-on specialist with experience in the aerospace or defense industry who understands military standards and ruggedization. You will work directly in the lab alongside our engineering leads to prototype and produce hardware that solves unique and challenging problems.

You will be expected to support high-stakes manufacturing processes and uphold strict quality controls to support one of RII's most successful core values: Get s#it done.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

      Complex Cable & Harness Assembly:

  • Build and inspect high-reliability cable assemblies, including MIL Spec connectors, RF cabling, and integrated data cables, ensuring strict adherence to applicable standards.

  • Perform shield termination on RF cables and verify continuity and isolation to prevent signal interference.

  • Execute water and dust proofing techniques for cable assemblies to ensure durability in harsh environments.

      Lab Collaboration & Production:

  • Collaborate daily in the lab with engineering and design teams to bridge the gap between initial prototypes and field-ready units.

  • Contribute to the ruggedization of sensitive hardware, ensuring components can withstand specific applications such as impact, heat, or salt water.

  • Assist in tracking incoming inventory and sourcing integration pieces to keep lab operations running smoothly.

      Quality Assurance & Standards:

  • Troubleshoot failures in assemblies and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

  • Conduct product testing to verify manufacturing quality, ensuring compliance with industry and safety standards.

WHAT YOU HAVE DONE

  • Must have prior experience in Aerospace, Defense, Military Avionics, or Satellite/UAV manufacturing.

  • Experience in manufacturing small form factor electronics or cable assembly.

  • Strong familiarity with military standards (MIL-STD), ruggedization processes, and environmental protection (waterproofing, corrosion resistance).

  • Demonstrated ability to build complex wire harnesses and terminate RF connectors.

EVEN BETTER

  • A US security clearance.

  • Current or prior certification in IPC-J-STD-001 (Soldering) and IPC/WHMA-A-620 (Cable & Wire Harness).

  • Experience with a variety of prototyping equipment including 3D printing and Laser cutting.

  • Understanding of different materials and coatings for specific applications, such as impact or salt water corrosion.

  • Background in high reliability/low volume environments.

#LI-TC1

At RII, we believe that diversity in our workforce is critical to our success. We strive to hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds, not just because it's the right thing to do, but because it makes us stronger. We work to help your intellectual passions and creativity thrive. It's one of our core values: Let your geek flag fly.
 
We also offer all employees comprehensive benefits including: flexible work schedules, health insurance coverage, paid time off, 401k with a company match, paid parental leave, access to wellness programs and much more. You get this all from day one, and all paid for by RII.
 
It's all part of another of our core values: Stay human. It's why our comfortable and colorful offices such as our headquarters, include a community game room, pantry, massage chair, and an escape room, among other amenities. It's why we have community ambassadors and regular community events.
 
Research Innovations Incorporated is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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