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Freelance Academic Copy Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Free Press

Contributions Editor

New York, NY · On-site

$140K - $165K/yr

Source, commission, and edit contributions from freelance writers, subject-matter experts, and ... Provide structural, line, and copy edits as needed, guiding contributors through the process from ...

FoolProof

Freelance Content Editor

Commack, NY · Remote

$15 - $18/hr

As a freelance editor with FoolProof Digital, you'll work remotely while playing a key role ... Copy edit articles to fix grammar, spelling, punctuation, and awkward phrasing * Fact check ...

Crossway

Editor, Academic Books

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

The academic book editor will serve Crossway's publishing ministry by copyediting book manuscripts ... Engaging and reviewing the work of freelance proofreaders and indexers * Working through projects ...

Vox Media Group

Real Estate Editor (Temporary)

New York, NY · On-site

$100K - $104K/yr

Real Estate Editor (Temporary) Curbed, New York Magazine's pioneering site covering real estate ... Generate assignments for staff and freelancers based on news and tips * Oversee two staff writers ...

InforCapital

Real Estate Editor (Temporary)

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$100 - $104/hr

... freelancers to build and expand our real estate coverage. What you'll do Edit news stories and ... with other editors at Curbed and across New York Magazine on visuals and social promotion for ...

IvyPanda

Academic editor (freelance)

New York, NY · On-site

The IvyPanda team needs an academic editor to help students excel in their studies, making sure that they receive top-quality content. Job responsibilities: * Manage content and coordinate writing ...

IvyPanda

Academic editor (freelance)

New York, NY · On-site

The IvyPanda team needs an academic editor to help students excel in their studies, making sure that they receive top-quality content. Job responsibilities: * Manage content and coordinate writing ...

IvyPanda

Academic editor (freelance)

New York, NY · On-site +1

The IvyPanda team needs an academic editor to help students excel in their studies, making sure that they receive top-quality content. Job responsibilities: * Manage content and coordinate writing ...

IvyPanda

Academic editor (freelance)

New York, NY · On-site

The IvyPanda team needs an academic editor to help students excel in their studies, making sure that they receive top-quality content. Job responsibilities: * Manage content and coordinate writing ...

BJU Education Group

Editor

Greenville, SC · On-site

As an Editor at BJU Press, the ideal candidate will play a supporting role on the Editorial team by ... You function within the context of a product-line team and focus on a specific academic subject ...

Fox

Freelance Producer/News Editor

New York, NY

We have an exciting opportunity for a freelance Producer/News Editor for our network radio news ... Highly skilled in writing and copy editing * Ability to handle breaking News situations * Strong ...

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Freelance Academic Copy Editor information

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$12

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How much do freelance academic copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance academic copy editor in the United States is $28.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $31.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance academic copy editor?

Freelance academic copy editors are professionals who work independently to edit scholarly manuscripts, research papers, dissertations, or journal articles for clarity, grammar, style, and formatting. They ensure that the writing adheres to academic standards and specific style guides, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago. Unlike in-house editors, freelance academic copy editors work on a contract basis for clients like researchers, universities, publishers, or students. Their work helps improve the overall readability and professionalism of academic documents, increasing the chances of publication or acceptance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance academic copy editor?

To thrive as a Freelance Academic Copy Editor, you need a strong command of grammar, style guides (such as APA, MLA, or Chicago), and academic writing conventions, often supported by a relevant degree or editorial training. Familiarity with editing software like Microsoft Word (track changes), reference management tools, and online submission systems is common. Attention to detail, time management, and clear communication are essential soft skills for meeting deadlines and collaborating with authors. These skills ensure accuracy, consistency, and clarity in academic manuscripts, leading to higher publication standards and client satisfaction.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance academic copy editors, and how can they be managed?

Freelance academic copy editors often face tight deadlines, varying client expectations, and the need to quickly adapt to different academic styles and subjects. Managing these challenges involves effective time management, clear communication with clients regarding project scope and timelines, and continuously updating one's knowledge of style guides such as APA, MLA, or Chicago. Building a reliable workflow and using reference management tools can also help maintain accuracy and consistency across diverse assignments.

What is the difference between Freelance Academic Copy Editor vs Freelance Content Writer?

AspectFreelance Academic Copy Editor

Required CredentialsTypically a degree in English, Journalism, or related field; strong editing skills
Work EnvironmentRemote, flexible hours, often working with academic institutions or authors
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by universities, publishers, and individual academics for editing scholarly content
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare to understand editing vs writing roles in academia

While both roles involve working with written content, a Freelance Academic Copy Editor focuses on refining and correcting academic manuscripts, ensuring clarity, consistency, and adherence to style guides. In contrast, a Freelance Content Writer creates original content for various platforms. The editor improves existing work, whereas the writer produces new material.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Academic Copy Editor jobs?

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Freelance Academic Copy Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Academic Copy Editor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 35% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 75% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,809 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Contributions Editor

The Free Press

New York, NY • On-site

$140K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

The Free Press is growing fast. We need an editor who can respond quickly to news events, craft smart stories, and get the best out of writers. We're looking for a sharp, creative, and highly organized Contributions Editor to join our editorial team. In this role, you'll work directly with outside writers-from established voices to first-time contributors-to bring compelling stories, and arguments to life for our audience. You'll be the bridge between The Free Press and a diverse set of thinkers, ensuring that every piece we publish is distinctive, rigorous, and true to our mission.
Responsibilities
  • Source, commission, and edit contributions from freelance writers, subject-matter experts, and opinion leaders.
  • Shape pitches into strong, clear, and original stories aligned with The Free Press's editorial standards.
  • Provide structural, line, and copy edits as needed, guiding contributors through the process from draft to publication.
  • Work closely with senior editors to set priorities, maintain the editorial calendar, and ensure timely delivery of content.
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with writers, academics, journalists, and other potential contributors.
  • Help brainstorm editorial packages, special series, and big-picture coverage ideas.
  • Collaborate with design, audience, and production teams to maximize reach and impact.

Qualifications
  • 4+ years of experience as an editor in journalism, publishing, or related fields.
  • Demonstrated skill in editing op-eds, essays, or reported features.
  • A strong editorial voice with the ability to sharpen arguments and elevate prose.
  • Excellent organizational skills and ability to juggle multiple projects at once.
  • Familiarity with the current media and cultural landscape, with an eye for stories that break through.
  • A track record of working with a wide range of writers, from seasoned journalists to emerging voices.
  • Passion for The Free Press's mission and curiosity about ideas across the political and cultural spectrum

$140,000 - $165,000 a year
Location: New York, NU (in office; remote US considered for exceptional candidates)
Employment: Full-time
Other benefits: health, dental, vision; 401(k); paid time off and holidays; parental leave; short and long-term incentive plans
The Free Press is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please email to [email protected].

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