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Freelance Copy Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VML

Senior Medical Editor - Freelance

New York, NY · On-site

$75 - $100/hr

As a Senior Medical Editor- Freelance you will manage all editorial requirements of assigned ... Copy edit and proofread various types of medical communication materials for syntax/grammar ...

Community Impact

Editor - Spring/Klein

Houston, TX · On-site

$58K/yr

... freelance writers, photographers and interns, as applicable. * Generate original story ideas and ... Ability to pass the company's writing and copy editing tests * First-rate reporting, writing and ...

Rotary International

Editor

Evanston, IL · Hybrid

$81K - $90K/yr

Additionally, the magazine's copy chief is responsible for developing, updating, and enforcing ... Managing freelancers and assigning news and feature stories. * Developing guidance and staying up ...

Rotary International

Editor

Evanston, IL · On-site

$81K - $90K/yr

Additionally, the magazine's copy chief is responsible for developing, updating, and enforcing ... Managing freelancers and assigning news and feature stories. * Developing guidance and staying up ...

VML

Medical Editor - Freelance

New York, NY · On-site

$55/hr

As a Medical Editor - Freelance you will manage all editorial requirements of assigned projects and ... Copy edit and proofread various types of medical communication materials for syntax/grammar ...

Condé Nast

Staff Editor

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

... freelance contributors, and more. * Proactively seek out interesting, diverse voices who can help ... and copy queries; seeing stories through production processes; and partnering with social and/or ...

Condé Nast

Staff Editor

San Francisco, CA

$80K - $105K/yr

... freelance contributors, and more. * Proactively seek out interesting, diverse voices who can help ... and copy queries; seeing stories through production processes; and partnering with social and/or ...

Condé Nast

Staff Editor

New York, NY · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

... freelance contributors, and more. * Proactively seek out interesting, diverse voices who can help ... and copy queries; seeing stories through production processes; and partnering with social and/or ...

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How much do freelance copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance 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 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
What cities are hiring for Freelance Copy Editor jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Copy Editor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Copy Editor jobs? The most popular types of Copy Editor jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Copy Editor jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Copy Editor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Copy Editor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Copy Editor jobs are:
Freelance Copy Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Copy Editor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 64% In-person, and 36% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,809 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Editor, Publishing Services

NAFSA Association of International Educators

Washington, DC • On-site

$65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

The Editor leads the development, review, and release of assigned print and digital publishing projects and has significant copy editing and proofreading responsibilities. This role collaborates with authors and NAFSA staff to edit and produce publications and content, while also providing editorial and writing support to NAFSA departments. The Editor supports the Senior Director in the management of certain business operations for the publishing services department, including customer service and the annual conference bookstore. This position also contributes to the editorial and production aspects of International Educator magazine, NAFSA.news e-newsletter, and the NAFSA blog.
Major Functions and Responsibilities
Provide project management and editorial support for books, eBooks, digital downloads, booklets, posters, and other print and digital resources (40%)
  • Serves as editorial lead and project manager for projects as assigned, including content development, stakeholder management, and production.
  • Develops publication schedules, editorial calendars, and cost estimates for freelancers and vendors to ensure projects stay on deadline and on budget.
  • Works with the Associate Director, Publishing Services, to draft editorial agreements for projects for all volunteer or paid contributors and/or editors and maintains accurate files on these project agreements.
  • Assists the department in creating and updating NAFSA Publication Guidelines for different projects.
  • Works with Marketing and Publications colleagues to market and promote new and existing publications.

Provide editorial and production support for NAFSA digital publications and various member and external-facing communications across the organization, including conference materials• (40%)
  • Provides editing, copyediting, and proofreading for communications and projects across the organization.
  • Manages the NAFSA Style Guide and updates it on a regular basis to comply with the Chicago Manual of Style.
  • Reviews, edits, and contributes as needed to the weekly NAFSA.news email newsletter; serves as production backup.
  • Serves as editorial project manager for publication projects and messaging from various NAFSA departments, providing substantive editing, copyediting, and proofreading.
  • Assist with copy editing, website production, and other duties as assigned for International Educator magazine and the NAFSA blog.

Serve as main customer support contact for Publications team; support business practices for production and marketing of publications (10%)
  • Manages the Publications inbox, responds to customer service emails and calls, and works with other NAFSA colleagues to troubleshoot customer inquiries.
  • Keeps product pages accurate and updated in the NAFSA Shop on the NAFSA website and iMIS.
  • Supports product fulfillment operations.
  • Collaborates with Marketing and Knowledge Development colleagues to coordinate the release of these products with innovation.

Assist at the NAFSA Bookstore during the annual conference (5%)
  • Coordinates with outside publishers to purchase and receive material for the bookstore.
  • Manages inventory before, during, and after the conference, including shipments and deliveries. Helps implement point of sale system and manage inventory in system.
  • Provides staff support during the planning, implementation, and follow-up processes. Provides customer service to conference attendees and offers guidance in the selection of appropriate publication resources.

Perform other duties as assigned by the Director, Publishing Services, to support fulfillment of NAFSA's strategic objectives and goals (5%)
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in journalism, English, communications, or other relevant field; or commensurate experience.
  • A minimum of three years of project management responsibility in a publications/communications department or similar environment.
  • Strong editorial skills (writing, editing, copy editing, proofreading), as well as an eye for graphic design.
  • Excellent organizational and project management skills; ability to track multiple, competing projects.
  • A firm grasp of style rules, preferably the Chicago Manual of Style, in addition to experience using an in-house style guide.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite.
  • Familiarity with Adobe Acrobat and InDesign, as well as Drupal or other content management systems.
  • Commitment and enthusiasm for NAFSA's mission.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience working in publishing.
  • Experience using the Chicago Manual of Style.
  • Previous experience working with membership associations, nonprofit organizations, contributors, or customers.
  • Work experience in higher education.
  • Exposure to or experience in international education or related field.

Office Environment
The workday is generally 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The week after Memorial Day to Labor Day, it is 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday.
Travel is required occasionally related to job responsibilities, especially for the annual conference or other leadership meetings. Participation in the NAFSA annual conference the week of Memorial Day, including the holiday itself, is a job requirement. The annual conference is held in varying cities.
Tasks are performed in a typical office environment, involving sitting for extended periods of time. Sitting, standing, bending, and lifting 10lbs or less will occur intermittently throughout the workday. Position involves constant use of computer keyboard and monitor, with intermittent use of headset and microphone.
Total Compensation, Benefits
The target salary for this full-time, 35-hour per week Editor position is $65,000. Total compensation for employment at NAFSA entails a competitive employee benefits package including:
  • Competitively priced medical and dental insurance plans with CareFirst
  • 403(b) retirement plan with eligibility for up to 7% employer contribution
  • Generous paid vacation, sick, personal, parental, and compassionate leave plans
  • Paid days on and around federal holidays
  • Fully paid group life and disability insurance coverage
  • Health and dependent care flexible spending account plans
  • Pre-tax parking and transportation plans
  • Free onsite fitness center and secure bicycle parking

About NAFSA: Association of International Educators
NAFSA: Association of International Educators is an organization of people dedicated to building a global community and fostering a more peaceful world through advancing international higher education. With approximately 10,000 members, NAFSA is the world's largest professional development and advocacy organization committed to international learning and creating a more globally engaged, welcoming, and educated United States.
NAFSA believes that international education advances learning and scholarship, fosters understanding and respect among people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives, is essential for developing globally competent individuals, and builds leadership for the global community. We believe that international education lies at the core of an interconnected world characterized by peace, security, and well-being for all.
NAFSA is a workplace that not only appreciates diversity but believes it is our strength, and we strive to create an inclusive culture for all our team members. NAFSA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Learn more about NAFSA at www.nafsa.org .
Key Words: Editor
Salary Description
The target salary for this position is $65,000.

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