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Freelance Copy Editor Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Freelance Copy Editor information

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$11

$26

$42

How much do freelance copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance copy editor in Tennessee is $26.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.10 and $29.04 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.

More about Freelance Copy Editor jobs

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The most popular types of Copy Editor jobs in Tennessee are:

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For Freelance Copy Editor jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Freelance Copy Editor jobs in Tennessee are:

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Freelance Copy Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Copy Editor job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,284 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Editor - W Publishing (Hybrid)

HarperCollins Publishers

Nashville, TN

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

The mission of W Publishing is to publish great books from Christian authors that inform, inspire, and lead to changes that matter—in this life and the next. Our authors include John Bevere, Louie Giglio, Max Lucado, Savannah Guthrie, Lisa Harper, Anne Wilson, and many more.

This position will oversee front-list titles from transmittal of final manuscript to bound books. Working closely with acquiring editors, content designers, art directors, and production managers, you will have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects and be responsible for keeping books on track as they move through the production process.

The ideal candidate will not only be an organized, detail-oriented individual with strong project management skills, but will also be an avid book reader who shares W Publishing’s mission to create meaningful, powerful content in partnership with today’s most vital voices in the areas of Christian spiritual growth and practical living.

Our preference is to fill this position in Nashville, TN or Grand Rapids, MI but we are also open to qualified candidates that are located outside of these areas. Travel may be required based on the need of the business.


  • Handles the production editorial process from manuscript to bound book for 10-15 front-list titles a year, utilizing electronic workflow.
  • Assesses manuscripts for copyediting and the styling of all design elements, using proprietary Microsoft Word styles for design and composition.
  • Coordinates with the design teams and freelance editors, collates corrections from freelancers and authors, verifies that corrections have been made, and ensures timely delivery of final files to the printer.
  • Maintains excellent communication and develops excellent working relationships with colleagues, including acquisitions editors, marketing and publicity staff, salespeople, production staff, designers, typesetters, and freelancers.
  • Works with authors and agents to obtain approval for text design, copyediting, and final cover files and to secure permissions and releases as needed.
  • Assists with various editions of assigned projects, including special editions, international editions, trade paper conversions, and derivative products.
  • Facilitates creation of cover copy and catalog copy, writing and proofreading as needed, and assists with the catalog and consumer description process across functions and stakeholders.
  • Copyedits flap and cover copy and proofreads and checks all stages of jacket/cover proofs.
  • Delivers editorial support for internal documents related to book proposals, sales conference materials, marketing materials, and other important documents as needed.
  • Inputs and updates reprint corrections.
  • Attends and contributes to production and other related meetings.

Knowledge: Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, and the Chicago Manual of Style; familiarity with the Bible and evangelical Christianity preferred, including broad trends within the world of Christian nonfiction publishing.

 

Work Experience:  Minimum 3 years’ editorial experience, preferably in trade book publishing.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, or related field. Other majors are welcome when combined with relevant experience.

 

Industry Knowledge: Keeps up with trends in the publishing industry by reading trade magazines, such as Publisher’s Weekly preferred; working knowledge of popular Christian books and authors a plus.

Skills: 

  • Solid copyediting and proofreading skills; knowledge of industry standards.
  • Able to shepherd multiple projects and manage competing priorities at once while maintaining high standards of quality and hitting deadlines.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strategic and always able to understand the bigger picture.
  • Enjoy working independently and as a member of a collaborative team.
  • Detail oriented; eagle-eyed at catching errors.
  • Able to learn new systems quickly, such as HarperCollins’ proprietary software for managing manuscripts.
  • A personal drive for excellence.

HarperCollins Christian Publishing is an equal opportunity employer.

 

HarperCollins Christian Publishing is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, in our job application and/or interview process. If you need assistance or accommodation in completing your application, due to a disability, email us at TalentManagement@harpercollins.com. Note: we will only respond to accommodation requests. 

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