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Freelance Fiction Proofreading Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Production Editor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$58K - $62K/yr

... best in fiction and nonfiction for readers of all ages, and in all printed, digital and audio ... Engage and manage freelance copyeditors/proofreaders/indexers; ensure adherence to house style ...

Freelance Fiction Proofreading information

See salary details

$14

$47

$132

How much do freelance fiction proofreading jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance fiction proofreading in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges freelance fiction proofreaders face when working with multiple authors and genres?

Freelance fiction proofreaders often encounter challenges such as adapting to different authors’ writing styles, maintaining consistency across various genres, and managing deadlines for multiple projects at once. Each author may have unique preferences for tone and language, requiring strong communication skills and flexibility. Additionally, balancing workloads and keeping track of style guides or series continuity can be demanding, but establishing clear expectations and effective organizational systems can help proofreaders succeed.

What is the difference between Freelance Fiction Proofreading vs Freelance Copy Editor?

AspectFreelance Fiction ProofreadingFreelance Copy Editor
CredentialsTypically requires proofreading certifications or strong language skillsRequires editing certifications, strong language and style skills
Work EnvironmentRemote, project-based, often with individual authors or publishersRemote or in-house, working with authors, publishers, or agencies
Industry UsageCommon in publishing, literary, and self-publishing sectorsUsed across publishing, marketing, and corporate content

Freelance Fiction Proofreading focuses on correcting grammar, spelling, and punctuation in fiction manuscripts, ensuring error-free text. Freelance Copy Editors go further by revising style, tone, and structure to improve clarity and flow. While both roles require strong language skills, copy editing often demands a deeper understanding of style guides and editing techniques. Choosing between them depends on whether you prefer detailed editing or simple proofreading tasks.

What is freelance fiction proofreading?

Freelance fiction proofreading is the process of reviewing and correcting written fiction manuscripts for errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting before publication. Unlike copyediting, proofreading focuses mainly on surface-level mistakes rather than deeper issues like story structure or character development. Freelance proofreaders work independently and are often hired by authors, publishers, or literary agencies on a project-by-project basis. Their goal is to ensure the manuscript is polished and professional, ready for readers to enjoy.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Fiction Proofreader, you need excellent command of grammar, punctuation, and spelling, as well as a keen eye for detail, often supported by a relevant degree or certification in English or editing. Familiarity with style guides (such as Chicago Manual of Style), track changes in word processing software, and proofreading tools like Grammarly is typically required. Strong communication, time management, and the ability to adapt to different writing voices are important soft skills. These skills ensure error-free, consistent manuscripts and help build trust with authors and publishers in a competitive freelance market.
More about Freelance Fiction Proofreading jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Fiction Proofreading jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Fiction Proofreading job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Fiction Proofreading jobs? The most popular types of Fiction Proofreading jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Fiction Proofreading jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Fiction Proofreading jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Fiction Proofreading jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Fiction Proofreading jobs are:
Infographic showing various Freelance Fiction Proofreading job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Production Editor

Simon & Schuster

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$58K - $62K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Simon & Schuster rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 19 rated publishing


Job description

Simon & Schuster was named to Forbes magazine list of America's Best Mid-Size Employers 2022. Simon & Schuster is a global leader in general interest publishing, dedicated to providing the best in fiction and nonfiction for readers of all ages, and in all printed, digital and audio formats. Its distinguished roster of authors includes many of the world's most popular and widely recognized writers, and winners of the most prestigious literary honors and awards. It is home to numerous well-known imprints and divisions such as Simon & Schuster, Scribner, Atria Books, Gallery Books, Pocket Books, Adams Media, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing and Simon & Schuster Audio and international companies in Australia, Canada, India and the United Kingdom, and proudly brings the works of its authors to readers in more than 200 countries and territories. For more information visit our website at www.simonandschuster.com.
The Production Editor will manage titles-including originals, format conversions, and reissues-through the production process from manuscript to bound book, working closely with Production, Managing Editorial, Editorial, Design, and Ebook Development to ensure titles are produced accurately.
Production editors in the Gallery group work on a range of titles across multiple genres-including fiction, pop culture, lifestyle, and contemporary politics-from a wide array of perspectives.
Duties include:
  • Manage the full text-production cycle for 18-24 new titles annually (varies by list); copyedit, proof, collate, and route pages through pass stages (1st to Final).
  • Engage and manage freelance copyeditors/proofreaders/indexers; ensure adherence to house style guidelines and schedule.
  • Maintain style sheets, using CMS 18 and Merriam-Webster standards; resolve queries with editors and authors.
  • Collaborate with design and desktop departments on typesetting quality (widows/orphans, ladders, hyphenation, tables, figures, callouts).
  • Track milestones in the title management system; proactively flag risk, negotiate timelines, and coordinate scheduling across departments.
  • Apply and check page and cover corrections in PDFs; perform rigorous quality checks on final files for print.
  • Prepare indexes (copyediting/coding/proofreading via vendor or in-house coordination), front/back matter, and reprint/correction cycles; log AAs and maintain clean records.

Required skills:
  • 3+ years in book production, copyediting, or closely related publishing role (or 1-2 years plus strong internship track record).
  • Expert command of grammar, punctuation, and style; ability to explain edits clearly and tactfully.
  • Fluency with Microsoft Word (Track Changes), Adobe Acrobat (PDF markup), and project trackers (e.g., Firebrand, Workfront).
  • Calm, organized, and solution-oriented; meticulous attention to detail under deadline pressure; must know how to work well with others.
  • Mac literate

Simon & Schuster US is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) including disability/vet. At Simon & Schuster US, the spirit of inclusion feeds into everything that we do. From employee benefits/programs and social impact outreach initiatives, we believe that opportunity, access, resources and rewards should be available to and for the benefit of all. Simon & Schuster US is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, and Veteran status.
The hiring salary range for this position applies to New York City, California, Colorado, Washington state, and most other geographies. Starting pay for the successful applicant depends on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education. The benefits available for this position include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) plan, life insurance coverage, disability benefits, tuition assistance program and PTO or, if applicable. Additionally, employees have access to our industry-first, Broad Based Ownership program, which makes all employees partners in our shared success.
Candidates hired for this or any other posted Simon & Schuster role will be employees of Simon & Schuster, LLC, subject to all policies, including the Workplace Privacy Notice, and eligible solely for the benefits plans thereof.

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