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Freelance Copy Editing Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

Crossway

Editor, Academic Books

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Managing book projects through the editing, typesetting, proofreading, and indexing phases ... Engaging and reviewing the work of freelance proofreaders and indexers * Working through projects ...

Rotary International

Editor

Evanston, IL · On-site

$81K - $90K/yr

... editing and production processes for its monthly print publication, website, and blog. Core ... Additionally, the magazine's copy chief is responsible for developing, updating, and enforcing ...

Rotary International

Editor

Evanston, IL · Hybrid

$81K - $90K/yr

... editing and production processes for its monthly print publication, website, and blog. Core ... Additionally, the magazine's copy chief is responsible for developing, updating, and enforcing ...

Crain

Art Director

Chicago, IL

$65K - $90K/yr

Collaborate with editorial teams, freelance photographers, designers, and other creative partners ... Basic copy editing skills and strong attention to detail. Preferred qualifications * Experience ...

WTTW

WFMT Digital Writer/Editor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$57K - $65K/yr

... copy to maximize engagement. • Strategically create and extend produced content for/to WFMT ... KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS REQUIRED: • Strong writing, editing, and communication skills • Proven ...

WFMT

WFMT Digital Writer/Editor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$57K - $65K/yr

... copy to maximize engagement. • Strategically create and extend produced content for/to WFMT ... KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS REQUIRED: • Strong writing, editing, and communication skills • Proven ...

ThreeKit, Inc.

Marketing Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Write and edit email copy and continuously test subject lines, send times, formats, and calls to ... Manage external vendors, agencies, and freelancers for design, video, and overflow work against an ...

ThreeKit

Marketing Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

... copy and continuously test subject lines, send times, formats, and calls to action. • Plan and ... and freelancers for design, video, and overflow work against an approved brief, timeline, and ...

ThreeKit

Marketing Manager

Chicago, IL

Write and edit email copy and continuously test subject lines, send times, formats, and calls to ... Manage external vendors, agencies, and freelancers for design, video, and overflow work against an ...

ThreeKit, Inc.

Marketing Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

... copy and continuously test subject lines, send times, formats, and calls to action. • Plan and ... and freelancers for design, video, and overflow work against an approved brief, timeline, and ...

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All JobsCopy Editing JobsFreelance Copy Editing JobsFreelance Copy Editing Jobs in Park Ridge, IL

Freelance Copy Editing information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$23

$30

$45

How much do freelance copy editing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance copy editing in Park Ridge, IL is $30.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.29 and $36.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Copy Editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Copy Editor, you need a strong grasp of grammar, punctuation, style guides, and attention to detail, often supported by a degree in English or communications. Familiarity with editing tools like Microsoft Word's Track Changes, Google Docs, and style manuals such as AP or Chicago is typically required. Excellent time management, communication skills, and adaptability help you manage diverse client needs and deadlines. These skills ensure clarity, consistency, and quality in written content, which are crucial for client satisfaction and professional reputation.

What is the difference between Freelance Copy Editing vs Freelance Proofreading?

AspectFreelance Copy EditingFreelance Proofreading
Primary FocusImproving clarity, style, and structure of contentCorrecting grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors
Required SkillsStrong editing, rewriting, and language skillsExcellent attention to detail and knowledge of grammar rules
Work EnvironmentRemote or freelance, often with writers or publishersRemote or freelance, typically reviewing final drafts
Common UsageEditing drafts for flow and consistencyProofreading final versions before publication

While both freelance copy editing and proofreading involve language accuracy, copy editing focuses on improving content clarity and style, whereas proofreading emphasizes catching grammatical and typographical errors in the final draft.

How do freelance copy editors typically manage client communication and project deadlines?

Freelance copy editors often work remotely, which means clear and proactive communication with clients is essential. Most use email, project management tools, or platforms like Slack or Trello to track edits and deadlines. Establishing expectations at the start of a project, such as turnaround times and revision policies, helps prevent misunderstandings. Time management is key, as freelancers may juggle multiple projects with overlapping deadlines, so creating a detailed schedule and updating clients regularly is considered best practice.

Is AI replacing proofreaders?

For freelance copy editing, AI tools can assist with grammar and style suggestions, but they do not fully replace the nuanced judgment and contextual understanding that human proofreaders provide. Many clients still prefer human oversight for quality and accuracy, especially in complex or creative texts. Therefore, AI is a complementary tool rather than a complete replacement for proofreaders in this field.

Can you be a freelance copy editor?

Yes, freelance copy editing is a common profession where individuals work independently to review and improve written content for clients. Successful freelance copy editors typically have strong language skills, proficiency with editing tools, and the ability to manage their own schedules and client relationships.

How much do freelance copy editors make?

Freelance copy editors typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, with rates varying based on experience, project complexity, and client budget. Many work on a per-project basis, with some earning over $60,000 annually if they secure steady, high-paying clients and have strong editing skills. Income can fluctuate depending on workload and specialization in fields like technical or medical editing.

What is freelance copy editing?

Freelance copy editing is the process of reviewing and correcting written content for grammar, punctuation, clarity, consistency, and style on a contract or project basis, rather than as a full-time employee. Freelance copy editors work independently for various clients, including authors, businesses, publishers, and websites. They ensure that documents are error-free and meet the client's specifications, often working remotely and managing their own schedules. This role requires strong language skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of different style guides.

Is copy editing still in demand?

Copy editing remains in demand as businesses, publishers, and content creators seek accurate, polished written material. Freelance copy editors with strong language skills and familiarity with editing tools like Track Changes or style guides are well-positioned to find opportunities, especially in digital media and publishing industries.
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Copy Editing jobs in Park Ridge, IL? For Freelance Copy Editing jobs in Park Ridge, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for Freelance Copy Editing jobs? Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most Freelance Copy Editing job openings:
Freelance Copy Editing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Copy Editing job openings in Park Ridge, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,960 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Executive Editor - NEWSWELL Chicago

NEWSWELL

Oak Park, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Executive Editor - NEWSWELL Chicago
NEWSWELL Chicago publishes four deeply rooted local news organizations serving Chicago's West Side and near western suburbs: Austin Weekly News, Forest Park Review, Riverside-Brookfield Landmark and Wednesday Journal of Oak Park and River Forest.
In early 2026, NEWSWELL Chicago acquired these storied community newspapers. That transition brought new stability, expanded resources and renewed momentum to a trusted local news operation.
NEWSWELL Chicago seeks an ambitious, community-minded Executive Editor to lead one of the Chicago region's strongest portfolios of local news organizations and help build what comes next.
This leader will oversee editorial strategy and day-to-day newsroom operations across NEWSWELL Chicago's portfolio of trusted local publications, strengthening each title while building a more connected, impactful newsroom. The Executive Editor will be responsible for producing exceptional journalism, growing audience, deepening community engagement and helping shape the next chapter of local news in the communities we serve.
This is a hands-on leadership role for an editor with strong news judgment, excellent editing skills and a genuine belief in the power of community journalism. The Executive Editor will collaborate across teams, coach reporters, guide coverage priorities, edit news copy and serve as a visible ambassador in the communities we cover.
The Executive Editor will also play a meaningful role in audience development, newsletters, digital publishing, fundraising support and expansion initiatives as NEWSWELL Chicago continues to grow.
This is a hybrid position based in Oak Park, IL, combining remote and in-person work. The pay rate for this role is $90-$120k annually.
What you'll do
  • Lead day-to-day editorial operations across NEWSWELL Chicago's newsroom, setting priorities, managing workflows and maintaining a strong culture of accountability and excellence
  • Direct editorial strategy across print, digital, newsletters and emerging platforms
  • Assign, shape and edit stories with an emphasis on quality reporting, strong storytelling, fairness and accuracy
  • Edit a significant volume of copy while maintaining high editorial standards and efficient production rhythms
  • Recruit, manage, coach and develop newsroom talent, including reporters, editors, audience staff, fellows, interns and freelance contributors
  • Oversee and collaborate closely with senior editorial and audience leaders, including the senior adviser/associate editor and senior audience manager
  • Use analytics, listening and newsroom instinct to guide coverage decisions and better serve community information needs
  • Represent NEWSWELL Chicago publicly at events and community gatherings and through partnerships and media appearances
  • Collaborate with leadership on fundraising efforts, donor engagement, editorial impact reporting
  • Help identify and develop opportunities to expand NEWSWELL Chicago's reach, impact and editorial footprint
  • Champion community journalism, strong newsroom values and an ambitious and collaborative culture
  • Foster an inclusive, respectful and collaborative newsroom culture that values diversity, encourages belonging, empowers staff and celebrates both individual and team successes.
  • Uphold and model NEWSWELL's values of fairness, inclusion, transparency and trust, and promote civil, solutions-minded public discourse through editorial decisions and leadership.

Relevant qualifications
  • An experienced editor and newsroom leader with excellent news judgment
  • A strong line editor who makes stories sharper, clearer and more impactful
  • A thoughtful people manager who knows how to coach, challenge and support talent
  • Audience-minded, digitally fluent and comfortable leading across platforms
  • Comfortable balancing daily journalism demands with longer-range editorial strategy
  • A visible and credible public representative for a newsroom

Required education and experience
  • 10+ years of journalism experience, including meaningful newsroom leadership experience
  • Strong editing background with demonstrated excellence in story development and copy editing
  • Experience managing reporters, editors, freelancers or cross-functional teams
  • Strong understanding of digital publishing, newsletters, audience engagement and modern newsroom tools
  • Demonstrated commitment to fairness, accuracy, ethics and inclusion in journalism

Preferred education and experience
  • Experience working in a newsroom or print publication environment.
  • Knowledge of Chicago and its surrounding communities preferred, but not required
  • Familiarity with Chicago neighborhoods and community-focused journalism.

Preferred skills and abilities
  • Spanish fluency is a plus.

Submission Requirements
Please put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order:
  • Your resume (one to two pages).
  • A cover letter that highlights your strengths and explains why you make a strong candidate for the position.
  • Three to five samples that demonstrate your editorial leadership. These may include project overviews, edited packages, newsroom initiatives, audience or workflow improvements, or other work that reflects your role, decision-making and impact. For each sample, include a one- to two-sentence description of what you did and how you did it.
  • Please assemble these materials into a single document and upload them in a PDF format.

Benefits
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) plan with matching employer contribution
  • 22 days of vacation time
  • 11 holidays, including your birthday
  • Parental leave
  • Significant tuition reductions
  • Professional development is highly valued at ASU Enterprise Partners, where employees are encouraged to look across the organization and nurture new areas of interest
  • $30 bi-weekly cell phone reimbursement

NEWSWELL is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Apply