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Professional Copy Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Harris

$45K - $50K/yr

The Copy Editor II position will contribute to copyedit efforts for both middle and high school ... Two (2) years of experience with copyediting tools, processes,andproceduresin a professional ...

Artemis Arc

Copy Editor

Washington, DC · On-site

The Copy Editor supports the government client by copyediting and proofreading written products for ... Minimum Qualifications * 1 year of professional copyediting experience. * Bachelor's degree in ...

Artemis Arc

Copy Editor

Washington, DC · On-site +1

The Copy Editor supports the government client by copyediting and proofreading written products for ... professional copyediting experience. * Bachelor's degree in communication, writing, public ...

Artemis Arc

Copy Editor

Washington, DC · On-site +1

The Copy Editor supports the government client by copyediting and proofreading written products for ... Minimum Qualifications * 1 year of professional copyediting experience. * Bachelor's degree in ...

Concordia Publishing House

Associate Copy Editor - St. Louis, MO Concordia Publishing House (CPH) - A Lutheran Church-Missouri ... Professional Growth - Develop your editorial skills and style expertise * Supportive Workplace ...

Trades.Org

$15 - $20/hr

You may be a good fit for this role if other positions of interest include: copy-writer, writer ... Previous editing experience, whether professional or academic * Dependable internet access ...

LendingTree

Copy Editor / Fact Checker

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$25K/mo

CULTURE Our clothes are casual and relaxed, and our work ethic is highly professional. It is our ... THE POSITION The main responsibility of a fact checker/copy editor is to be the last line of ...

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How much do professional copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional 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 is the difference between Professional Copy Editor vs Content Writer?

AspectProfessional Copy EditorContent Writer
Primary RoleReviewing and refining written content for clarity, grammar, and styleCreating original content for various platforms and audiences
Skills & CertificationsStrong editing, grammar, and language skills; often certifications in editing or journalismExcellent writing, research, and storytelling skills; portfolio of published work
Work EnvironmentTypically works in publishing, media, marketing agencies, or freelanceWorks in marketing, media, blogging, or corporate communications

While both roles require excellent language skills, a Professional Copy Editor focuses on polishing existing content, whereas a Content Writer creates new material. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and career goals.

What are some common challenges a professional copy editor faces when working with diverse content types and how can they be addressed?

Professional copy editors often work with a wide range of content, from technical documents to creative pieces. A common challenge is adapting to different writing styles, subject matters, and target audiences. To address this, copy editors must be flexible, research unfamiliar topics, and maintain a clear understanding of the client's expectations. Regular communication with writers and staying updated on industry standards also help ensure consistency and quality across various projects.

What is a professional copy editor?

A professional copy editor is a specialist who reviews and revises written content to ensure it is clear, consistent, accurate, and free of errors. Their responsibilities include checking grammar, punctuation, spelling, and style, as well as ensuring the text adheres to a specific style guide. Copy editors often work on books, articles, marketing materials, websites, and other written documents to improve readability and flow. They may also fact-check information and work closely with writers and publishers to polish content before publication.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Professional Copy Editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Professional Copy Editor, you need strong command of grammar, punctuation, style guides, and attention to detail, often supported by a degree in English, journalism, or communications. Familiarity with editing software such as Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat, and content management systems is typically required. Excellent communication, time management, and the ability to provide constructive feedback are standout soft skills. These competencies are essential to ensure clarity, consistency, and accuracy in published materials, meeting both client and audience expectations.

How much money do copy editors make?

The average salary for a professional copy editor ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Freelance copy editors may charge hourly rates from $20 to $50 or more, with rates increasing for specialized skills or high-volume projects.

Is there a demand for copy editors?

Yes, there is ongoing demand for professional copy editors across various industries such as publishing, media, marketing, and corporate communications. Skilled copy editors who are proficient in grammar, style, and editing tools like Microsoft Word or Adobe InCopy are sought after, especially as content creation continues to grow online and in print. The job market can vary by region and industry, but overall, experienced copy editors remain a valuable part of content production teams.

What are the 5 C's of copyediting?

The 5 C's of copyediting are clarity, conciseness, consistency, correctness, and coherence. A professional copy editor ensures that the text is clear and easy to understand, free of errors, and maintains a consistent style and tone throughout. These principles help produce polished, accurate, and effective written content.

Is AI replacing proofreaders?

AI tools are increasingly used to assist professional copy editors by automating routine tasks like spelling and grammar checks, but they do not fully replace the need for human judgment, style, and context understanding. Copy editors rely on their expertise to ensure clarity, tone, and accuracy, which AI currently cannot fully replicate. Therefore, AI serves as a complementary tool rather than a complete replacement for proofreaders.
What cities are hiring for Professional Copy Editor jobs? Cities with the most Professional 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 Professional Copy Editor jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Copy Editor jobs include:
Professional Copy Editor jobs near you

Copy Editor

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Chicago, IL • On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 hours ago

Key responsibilities

  • Copy edit student dissertations to ensure adherence to grammar, punctuation, and formatting requirements of The Chicago School and APA Publication Manual.

  • Assist students with formatting, citations, and layout to meet dissertation guidelines, and provide feedback and work samples related to style and requirements.

  • Maintain accurate and complete student drafts, progress, and billing records, and communicate with students and the Manuscript Preparation Office Manager as needed.

Job description

Job Description:
Position Summary
A Copy Editor is responsible for copy editing student dissertations to ensure that documents adhere to standard grammar and punctuation rules and the formatting requirements developed by both The Chicago School and The American Psychological Association Publication Manual.
Principle Duties
Dissertation Copy Editing
• Accurately read student dissertations for logic and consistency promptly.
• Identify and correct grammar, spelling, syntax, format, style, and punctuation errors.
• Provide work samples that will assist students with formatting and style.
• Provide students with feedback about APA style and the requirements of The Chicago School.
• Assist students with formatting margins, pagination, citations, layout, tables, figures, and appendices so that they adhere to all dissertation guidelines established by The Chicago School.
• Ensure that all references are correctly formatted and that they have been correctly and consistently cited in the dissertation.
• Confer with students on what tasks they must perform to complete their dissertations.
• Answer student questions about copy editing, referencing and citations, formatting, and completing dissertation copy editing promptly.
• Assist students with printing a high-quality, ready-to-bind dissertation.
• Maintain accurate and complete student drafts, process, and progress records.
Other
• Retain all copies of student drafts, records, and correspondence until The Chicago School has approved the student's dissertation.
• Maintain accurate and complete billing records.
• Respond to emails within 24 hours.
• Communicate as needed with the Manuscript Preparation Office Manager regarding student progress.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding student names and results.
• Uphold the highest standards of collegial and professional conduct with all The Chicago School community members.
Position Qualifications
A Master's degree in English or a similar field with experience teaching writing and/or editing (or the equivalent preparation) is preferred. Individuals with a BA and relevant experience are also encouraged to apply. Applicants must have a thorough knowledge of English grammar and spelling and a working familiarity with the APA writing style.
Excellent organizational, detail-oriented, and communication skills are required. Applicants must also be able to work independently by email, phone, and video conference.
Excellent computer skills, including MS Word, Excel, email, and video conferencing proficiency, are required.
The Chicago School has received national recognition for its institutional commitment to diversity and intercultural education. Ideal candidates will demonstrate an appreciation, enthusiasm, and commitment to diversity in all endeavors. Applicants from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.
Compensation & Benefits
This opportunity is budgeted at $$40-$45 base compensation. Additional compensation factors may impact total compensation. To learn more about our competitive benefits and additional rewards, including generous paid time-off, medical and dental insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, retirement plan with employer contribution, multiple flexible spending accounts, tuition reimbursement, click the link below.
https://www.thechicagoschool.edu/career-opportunities/
The Chicago School is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please note: For the protection of faculty, staff, students, and all who enter our facilities, The Chicago School strongly recommends that all employees are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 per CDC guidance.

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