ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Copy Editing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Welocalize, Inc.

Korean Senior Linguist

Houston, TX · On-site

This role involves managing translation and copy-editing tasks, ensuring high-quality linguistic deliverables for assigned projects or accounts. Responsibilities include coordinating with freelancers ...

Welocalize, Inc.

Korean Senior Linguist

Houston, TX · On-site

This role involves managing translation and copy-editing tasks, ensuring high-quality linguistic deliverables for assigned projects or accounts. Responsibilities include coordinating with freelancers ...

Dow Jones

Assistant Editor, Opinion

New York, NY

... and freelancers on their articles edits and to occasionally commission pieces. You will be ... High level of proficiency in writing, copy-editing and proofreading. * The ability to work under ...

ROKA

Copywriter (Contract / Freelance)

Austin, TX · On-site

Contract / Freelance Welcome to ROKA, an independent performance eyewear brand born in Austin ... copy) * Exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills with high attention to detail

ROKA

Copywriter (Contract / Freelance)

Austin, TX

Contract / Freelance Welcome to ROKA, an independent performance eyewear brand born in Austin ... copy) * Exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills with high attention to detail

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 ...

DDM GROUP LLC

Breaking News Writer (Freelance)

Atlanta, GA

$20.25 - $26/hr

Atlanta Black Star is seeking experienced Freelance Breaking News Writers to join our fast-paced ... Produce clean, accurate, publish-ready copy with minimal editing required * Quickly gather facts ...

DDM GROUP LLC

Breaking News Writer (Freelance)

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

Atlanta Black Star is seeking experienced Freelance Breaking News Writers to join our fast-paced ... copy with minimal editing required Quickly gather facts from multiple sources and verify ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCopy Editing JobsFreelance Copy Editing Jobs

Freelance Copy Editing information

See salary details

$23

$31

$46

How much do freelance copy editing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance copy editing in the United States is $31.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.72 and $37.26 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.
More about Freelance Copy Editing jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Copy Editing jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Copy Editing job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Copy Editing jobs? The most popular types of Copy Editing jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Copy Editing jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Copy Editing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Copy Editing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Copy Editing jobs are:
Freelance Copy Editing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Copy Editing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,000 per year, or $31.2 per hour.
Korean Senior Linguist

Korean Senior Linguist

Welocalize, Inc.

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

If you have a Candidate Login already, but have forgotten your password please use the steps to reset your password. If you have forgotten your email login, please contact servicedesk@welocalize.com subject Workday Candidate Login

When creating your Workday account and entering personal information like name, address, please do not use ALL CAPS.

Thank you!

NOTICE:For Privacy Policy please review here

Job Responsibilities:

This role involves managing translation and copy-editing tasks, ensuring high-quality linguistic deliverables for assigned projects or accounts. Responsibilities include coordinating with freelancers and agencies, maintaining language resources, resolving terminology queries, and collaborating with clients and internal teams to enhance workflow efficiency. The position also supports broader team efforts through editing, error arbitration, and active participation in quality initiatives.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of responsibilities and areas of ownership for this role:

  • Performing copy-edit tasks on assigned projects or accounts
  • Performing on-demand translation tasks
  • Performing lead linguist role on assigned accounts
  • Taking ownership of deliveries that were translated internally or by external partners for one or more accounts into their target language
  • Preparing, managing and maintaining the language materials (including glossaries, Style Guides, work instruction) up to the quality standards and up to date as required by the account or project
  • Managing project-related queries
  • Ensuring good interaction among team members and resolving questions on terminology and language matters
  • Coordinating with freelancers, agencies and internal linguists on assigned projects or accounts
  • Testing and qualifying new freelancers and vendors as required
  • Developing and training of internal linguists/new and existing freelancers according to the accounts' and Welocalize's needs
  • Interacting with clients on linguistic matters as required
  • Participating in the development of new and improved working processes. Propose process improvements.
  • Meet or exceed the KPIs in terms of productivity, on time delivery, quality
  • Achieving the goals set by the team manager

Additional Job Details:

REQUIREMENTS

Education Level

University degree in Translation/Applied Languages/Linguistic Studies or equivalent combination of education and experience (University degree in other fields plus 2 years of full time experience in translation; OR 5 years of full time professional experience in translating)

Experience and Skills

  • Fluent in English, both written and spoken
  • Native fluency in TARGET language
  • 8+ years of relevant experience in translation/localization/editing or content writing
  • 5+ years of review experience
  • Thorough understanding of the localization process
  • Excellent knowledge of terminology used various subject matters
  • Subject-matter expert within company for assigned content specialities, service lines and processes
  • Excellent user experience of standard CAT tools, e.g. XTM, SDL Studio and issue tracking and query management tools, e.g. JIRA
  • Ability to learn new localization tools and applications quickly
  • Excellent user experience of standard software, such as Windows and Office applications
  • Ability to give clear, concise and constructive feedback
  • Ability to coordinate internal and external translators
  • Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability and willingness to train/teach others and pass on knowledge.
  • Ability to work with tight deadlines
  • Excellent problem solving skills
  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, linguists
  • Ability, willingness and experience in communicating with customers at various levels
  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists
  • Ability to work in a virtual team

Apply