1

Freelance Copy Editor Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Work activities requireinterfacing with freelancers (copy editors, proofreaders, indexers, etc.)authors and internal editorial staff. This classification is generally assigned to the University Press ...

Work activities requireinterfacing with freelancers (copy editors, proofreaders, indexers, etc.)authors and internal editorial staff. This classification is generally assigned to the University Press ...

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

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

Art Director

Detroit, MI · On-site

$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 ...

Manage external vendors - Oversees agencies, freelancers, media partners, and creative contractors ... Ensure brand consistency - Reviews and approves marketing copy, creative assets, and publications.

Freelance Copy Editor information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$25

$41

How much do freelance copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance copy editor in Michigan is $25.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $27.88 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 command of grammar, spelling, and style, often supported by a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field. Familiarity with editing tools like Microsoft Word (Track Changes), Google Docs, and style guides such as AP or Chicago Manual of Style is essential. Attention to detail, time management, and effective communication with clients are vital soft skills for success. These skills and qualifications ensure accuracy, consistency, and client satisfaction in a competitive and deadline-driven environment.

What is a freelance copy editor?

A freelance copy editor is a professional who works independently to review and improve written content for clarity, grammar, punctuation, style, and consistency. They may work on a variety of materials, such as articles, books, websites, or marketing materials, for different clients rather than being employed by a single organization. Freelance copy editors often manage their own schedules, choose their projects, and set their rates, making flexibility a key aspect of the role.

What Does a Freelance Copy Editor Do?

As a freelance copy editor, your job is to review spelling, grammar, and previous editing of a piece of content. Content can range from small pieces of less than two hundred words to complete books or manuscripts. Some freelance copy editors focus on particular types of content, such as medical content or the format of textbooks. In this role, you may proofread significant amounts of content each day, extrapolate the overall quality of work from a sample of it, and communicate with other editors to explain how much content needs to change. Some freelance copy editors edit the same material through several drafts, so the ability to remain focused while reviewing similar content is essential to your success.

What are some common challenges freelance copy editors face when managing multiple clients?

Freelance copy editors often juggle projects from various clients, which can lead to challenges like conflicting deadlines, varying editorial styles, and fluctuating workloads. Effective time management and clear communication are crucial to ensure each project meets its deadline and quality standards. Staying organized, using project management tools, and setting clear expectations with clients can help mitigate these challenges and build long-term professional relationships.

What is the difference between Freelance Copy Editor vs Freelance Proofreader?

AspectFreelance Copy EditorFreelance Proofreader
CredentialsTypically requires editing certifications or strong language skillsFocuses on grammar and spelling, less formal credentials needed
Work EnvironmentRemote, project-based, often involves editing draftsRemote, reviews final texts for errors
Industry UsageUsed across publishing, marketing, corporate contentCommon in publishing, journalism, and content production
Search & ComparisonOften compared for editing depth and scopeCompared for final error checking skills

Freelance Copy Editors and Freelance Proofreaders both work remotely and focus on language quality. Copy editors typically handle more in-depth editing, including style and structure, while proofreaders focus on catching grammatical and typographical errors in final drafts. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right professional for their project needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Copy Editor jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Copy Editor jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Copy Editor jobs in Michigan? For Freelance Copy Editor jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Copy Editor jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Copy Editor jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Freelance Copy Editor jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Freelance Copy Editor job openings:
Infographic showing various Freelance Copy Editor job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,129 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

284th of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

POSITIONPURPOSE

Provide editorialassistance in the development and processing of manuscripts to ensure timelyand quality publication of books.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Assistin all facets of manuscript development.  Assist in reviewing unsolicited manuscripts and proposals, securingappropriate and qualified reviewers, and preparing materials for editorialboard review.  Maintain and monitormanuscript review and publication schedules.
  • Assistin all facets of editorial work.  Assistin editing book manuscripts; identifying and overseeing freelancers, electroniccoding and manuscript clean up, and interfacing with authors, contributors andeditors.
  • Provideassistance in screening and selecting book proposals and manuscripts; verifywriting competence; update department databases.  Assist in developing materials forpublications; maintain and monitor manuscript editing and copyeditingschedules.
  • Preparecorrespondence, transmittals and communications; assist in coordinatingprojects; perform miscellaneous administrative support functions.
  • Performrelated work as assigned.

ADDITIONALCOMMENTS

Thisclassification is designed to provide routine editorial assistance in thedevelopment and processing of manuscripts for publication. Skills inproofreading and editing and some understanding of scholarly book publishingare preferred.  Work activities requireproviding assistance in all facets of manuscript preparation, editorial workand publication.  Work activities requireinterfacing with freelancers (copy editors, proofreaders, indexers, etc.)authors and internal editorial staff.  This classification is generally assigned to the University Press withinthe University Library System.  Thisclassification reports to and receives technical guidance from a managementlevel position.


What Wayne State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom