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Fiction Proofreading Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Simon & Schuster

Production Editor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$58K - $62K/yr

... best in fiction and nonfiction for readers of all ages, and in all printed, digital and audio ... Prepare indexes (copyediting/coding/proofreading via vendor or in-house coordination), front/back ...

Chargezoom

Content Writer

Salt Lake City, UT

$40K - $60K/yr

... content creation - Assist in proofreading and optimizing content for SEO - Participate in ... fiction -Share professional work done for other companies Good luck. Looking forward to hearing ...

Chargezoom

Content Writer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

... content creation - Assist in proofreading and optimizing content for SEO - Participate in ... fiction -Share professional work done for other companies Good luck. Looking forward to hearing ...

Wisconsin

Assistant Editor

Stevens Point, WI

$24.97/hr

Assists in editing, revising, and proofreading materials and resolving errors or inconsistencies in ... Experience in editing fiction, poetry, and prose, published media, or related. * Expertise in word ...

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Fiction Proofreading information

See salary details

$13

$27

$43

How much do fiction proofreading jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for fiction proofreading in the United States is $27.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I get hired as a fiction proofreader?

To get hired as a fiction proofreader, develop strong editing and proofreading skills, often through training or certification in editing or language. Build a portfolio by editing sample work or volunteering, and apply to freelance platforms or publishing companies that hire proofreaders. Familiarity with editing tools like Microsoft Word and style guides such as the Chicago Manual of Style can improve your chances.

What is a fiction proofreading?

A Fiction Proofreading job involves reviewing and correcting written fiction manuscripts for grammar, punctuation, spelling, and consistency errors. Proofreaders focus on polishing the final draft before publication, ensuring clarity and readability without altering the author's style or storytelling. They check for typographical mistakes, formatting issues, and adherence to style guides. This role is essential in maintaining the professionalism and quality of a book before it reaches readers.

Is there a demand for fiction proofreaders?

Fiction proofreaders are in steady demand as publishers, authors, and editing services seek to ensure high-quality manuscripts. The role often requires strong language skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with editing tools, with opportunities available in freelance and full-time positions across publishing and literary industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in fiction proofreading, and why are they important?

To thrive in Fiction Proofreading, you need a keen eye for detail, excellent command of grammar and punctuation, and familiarity with standard style guides such as Chicago Manual of Style or AP Stylebook. Familiarity with proofreading tools like Microsoft Word's Track Changes and editorial management platforms is often expected, and some employers may value relevant editorial certifications. Strong communication skills, time management, and the ability to provide constructive feedback set top proofreaders apart. These skills ensure manuscripts are polished, error-free, and maintain narrative consistency, supporting authors and publishers in producing high-quality fiction.

How to become a fiction proofreader?

To become a fiction proofreader, you should develop strong language and editing skills, often through a background in English, journalism, or related fields. Gaining experience with editing tools and building a portfolio can help, and some proofreaders pursue certifications such as the Editorial Freelancers Association certification to enhance credibility.

What are the typical challenges faced in a fiction proofreading role?

Fiction Proofreaders commonly encounter challenges such as maintaining consistency in character names, timelines, and plot details, as well as adapting to an author's distinctive voice while correcting grammatical errors. Juggling multiple projects with tight deadlines can also be demanding, requiring excellent organizational skills. Additionally, proofreaders often collaborate closely with editors and authors to clarify ambiguities or suggest improvements, which means flexibility and clear communication are essential. Embracing feedback and remaining attentive to both small errors and larger continuity issues are crucial parts of the role.

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What states have the most Fiction Proofreading jobs?

States with the most job openings for Fiction Proofreading jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Fiction Proofreading jobs look for?

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Fiction Proofreading jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fiction Proofreading job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Internship, and 80% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,520 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Associate Editor

Deseret Book Company

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Deseret Book rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 11 rated book shops

Job description

Our company is committed to being trusted voices of light and truth reaching hundreds of millions of people worldwide.
Associate Editor
Reports to
Editorial Director
Location
Deseret Book Corporate Office
Salt Lake City, UT
Start Date
Immediately
Position Type
Full Time; Hybrid
The Opportunity
About Shadow Mountain
Shadow Mountain is a national trade imprint of Deseret Book Company, publishing award-winning fiction and nonfiction for adults, young adults, and middle-grade readers. Our titles regularly appear on the New York Times and national bestseller lists, and our catalog spans mystery and suspense, romance, historical fiction, cookbooks, picture books, and inspirational nonfiction.
Position Summary
Shadow Mountain is seeking an experienced, detail-oriented Associate Editor to join our editorial team. This is a hands-on role managing approximately 12-15 titles per year through every stage of the publishing process-from manuscript development through prepress and final printing. The ideal candidate is an exceptional editor at all stages (developmental, line, and copy) with strong project-management instincts, a passion for commercial fiction and nonfiction, and the ability to build lasting, trust-based relationships with authors.
Responsibilities include
  • Manage books through the complete production lifecycle. Oversee up to 15 titles per year from conception to consumer, including developmental editing, author revisions, line editing, copyediting, typesetting coordination, cover design coordination, final page corrections, indexing, and blueline approvals. Work with freelance editors as needed for sensitivity reviews, copy editing, or proofreading tasks.
  • Edit manuscripts in Microsoft Word. Perform developmental reads, line editing, copy editing, and source checking to prepare both fiction and nonfiction manuscripts for publication.
  • Build and maintain author relationships. Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned authors, communicating clearly and often about the publishing process, and working collaboratively to develop new projects that are marketable, unique, and brand-building.
  • Prepare and present editorial pitches. Write pitch documents for editorial, sales, and marketing review-including tag lines, book descriptions, author bios, key selling points, and comp titles-and contribute to acquisition decisions.
  • Build and manage production schedules. Coordinate timelines, communicate project updates and changes to the team, and ensure all assigned titles meet press deadlines.
  • Collaborate with design, typesetting, and art teams. Work with designers on cover concepts and interior images, coordinate with typesetters on interior book design, prepare cover and interior files for Advance Reading Copies, perform prepress checks, and approve bluelines.
  • Write cover copy and marketing materials. Develop book jacket copy for both ARC and final version, and work with the design team to produce polished, consumer-ready materials.
  • Support acquisitions and project development. Review and evaluate submitted manuscripts, participate in slush pile review, and attend local and national writing conferences to take pitches from authors and teach classes as needed.
  • Provide editorial support across teams. Assist sales and marketing teams by proofreading catalogs, marketing materials, and social media posts; prepare metadata worksheets for assigned titles; secure author endorsements; and provide occasional collaborative support for other editors on the team.
  • Stay current with industry trends and the competitive market. Monitor publishing trends, read widely in Shadow Mountain's key categories, and bring market awareness to editorial discussions, pitch development, and author consultations.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in English, communications, journalism, or a related field
  • 3-5 years of editorial experience in trade book publishing (or equivalent)
  • Score of 85% or higher on in-house editorial/proofreading test
  • Expert-level proficiency in Microsoft applications (Word, Excel, Teams, Planner, etc.) and Adobe applications
  • Strong command of The Chicago Manual of Style, 18th Edition
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under deadline pressure
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Impeccable attention to detail
  • Experience working directly with authors through the editorial process
  • Familiarity with book production workflows, including typesetting, prepress, and print coordination
  • Knowledge of current publishing trends and the competitive trade market
  • Experience developing, editing, and managing cookbooks a plus
  • Strong understanding of fiction genres and tropes for adult, young adult, and middle-grade readers
  • Able to work independently as well as with various teams
  • Experience with metadata systems (e.g., Firebrand) a plus
  • Experience attending or presenting at writing conferences
  • A portfolio or list of projects you have worked on

BENEFITS
  • Excellent medical, dental, and life insurance
  • 401(k) savings plan with company matching funds
  • Company-funded retirement plan
  • Merchandise discount
  • Discounted UTA Eco pass
  • Paid leave and holidays
  • Great work environment

Equal Opportunity
Deseret Book is an equal opportunity employer. We're committed to building an inclusive workplace where every individual is valued, respected, and empowered to do meaningful work. We strongly encourage all qualified candidates to apply. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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