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Entry Level Proofreader Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

PMMI

Trade Show Assistant

Herndon, VA · On-site

... proofing exhibitor materials. * Show Department liaison to the Communications Social Media team ... This is an entry-level position. Prior professional experience is not required; one to three years ...

All JobsProofreader JobsEntry Level Proofreader JobsEntry Level Proofreader Jobs in Washington, DC

Entry Level Proofreader information

See Washington, DC salary details

$15

$31

$49

How much do entry level proofreader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level proofreader in Washington, DC is $31.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $38.12 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
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Entry Level Proofreader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Proofreader job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,123 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Trade Show Assistant

The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies

Herndon, VA • On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Contractor

Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, is the leading global resource for packaging and processing and voted one of the "Best Manufacturing Associations to Work For" on multiple occasions. PMMI connects the makers of goods with the packaging and processing suppliers they rely on. Together, we help provide people around the world with innovative, safe, convenient, and cost-effective products that touch lives every day. PMMI represents more than 1,100 manufacturers and suppliers of equipment, components, and materials as well as providers of related equipment and services to the packaging and processing industry. We advance a variety of industries by connecting consumer goods companies with manufacturing solutions through our world-class PACK EXPO portfolio of trade shows, leading trade media and a wide range of business resources. Learn more here: PACK EXPO Trade Shows: Uniting the World of Packaging and Processing (pmmi.org)
PMMI has industry leading benefits and a strong employee-focused culture that effectively aligns our talent with the PMMI mission through generous employer-paid insurance options and employee perks like flexible work time, unlimited PTO, frequent celebrations, Washington Capitals and Nationals season ticket raffles, weekly telecommuting days, a generous performance-based bonus program, a very lucrative Retirement Plan that includes an incredible Profit Share, and more! Take home your full earnings potential - no need for costly benefit deductions at PMMI! Come join us and see for yourself. Your family will thank you.
This link leads to the machine-readable files that are made available in response to the federal Transparency in Coverage Rule and includes negotiated service rates and out-of-network allowed amounts between health plans and healthcare providers. The machine-readable files are formatted to allow researchers, regulators, and application developers to access and analyze data more easily.
Objective:

The Trade Show Assistant provides overall support to the Show Department, working primarily in Exhibitor and Attendee Services but touching all facets of the department from operations to marketing.
Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for exhibitor and attendee customer service, checking the general Expo email account and responding to phone inquiries. Responsible for assisting current exhibitors with all aspects of their show planning, including accessing their Exhibitor Resource Center and updating their online profiles.

  • Maintaining data integrity of exhibitors' records by making updates in Salesforce and Map Your Show, and following up on returned mail and emails.

  • In conjunction with other team members, responsible for execution of booth selection for all domestic shows, including sending exhibit space confirmations during the booth selection process.

  • Processing Exhibit Space Applications in Map Your Show, assigning booth space and ensuring confirmation is sent to Exhibitors.

  • Proof floor plans, show guides, and other show related documents.

  • Process Affiliate Listing forms submitted by exhibitors and confirm with all companies involved.

  • Collect and produce materials needed for Staff Book for all domestic trade shows, including on-site information sheet, updating staff assignments, and other materials as needed.

  • Assist International Trade Show Manager with processing PMMI Pavilion Contracts for EXPO PACK Shows, including entering orders into MYS and confirming contact information is up to date in Salesforce.

  • Assist Accounting department with Trade Show payment collections.

  • Assist in the production and collection of Independent Contractor Agreements for show contractors including PACK EXPO Services, Floor Managers, and Floor Manager Clerks.

  • Responsible for various tasks on-site at the trade shows including managing the Lost and Found program, the reservation of meeting rooms inside Exhibitor Lounges, on-site Exhibit Sales, and the collection of feedback from staff post-event.

  • Assist with administrative tasks as needed for the EXPO PACK events including processing contracts, supplemental exhibitor orders and proofing exhibitor materials.

  • Show Department liaison to the Communications Social Media team, focusing on content creation for TikTok, Instagram, and other social media channels.

  • General filing of applications and other misc. items.

  • Travels to the annual trade show(s) and other events as needed to assist with onsite duties and booth sales for future trade shows.

Qualifications and Education Requirements:

  • 4-year college degree required

  • This is an entry-level position. Prior professional experience is not required; one to three years of related experience is preferred

  • Must demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills

  • Strong customer service skills required, including via phone and email

  • Strong organizational skills required with the ability to handle multiple projects at once

  • Highly motivated with ability to work independently and prioritize work activities

  • Attention to and precision with detail

  • Able to adapt to change with a positive attitude

  • Travel to trade shows Required

  • Experience in Map Your Show or Salesforce, a plus.