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Professional Proofreader Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Walter

Staff Security Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

This team owns the identity proofing flows that millions of members rely on every day - from secure ... . * 8+ years of professional software engineering experience building and operating high ...

Medsave Healthcare Tpa

Administrative Assistant

Oxon Hill, MD · On-site

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

The ideal candidate for this career is upbeat, professional and can meet the following requirements ... proofing of letters/e-mails • Use discretion in regards to confidential and sensitive information ...

Medsave Healthcare Tpa

Administrative Assistant

Oxon Hill, MD · On-site

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

The ideal candidate for this career is upbeat, professional and can meet the following requirements ... proofing of letters/e-mails • Use discretion in regards to confidential and sensitive information ...

Jose Andres Group

Pastry Cook

Washington, DC · On-site

$19.75 - $24/hr

... professional pastry/bakery experience in upscale casual, casual-fine, fine dining, or hotel pastry; culinary/pastry program a plus. * Strong scaling and baking fundamentals (mixing methods, proofing ...

Zantech

Chief Enterprise Architect

Arlington, VA · On-site

PMP Technical Roadmap and Future-Proofing & Tech Horizon Parity Plan (architectural input ... Professional-level cloud architect certification (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect ...

Zantech

Chief Enterprise Architect

Arlington, VA · On-site

PMP Technical Roadmap and Future-Proofing & Tech Horizon Parity Plan (architectural input ... Professional-level cloud architect certification (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect ...

Zantech

Chief Enterprise Architect

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

PMP Technical Roadmap and Future-Proofing & Tech Horizon Parity Plan (architectural input ... Professional-level cloud architect certification (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect ...

GLOBAL TAPAS LLC

Pastry Cook

Washington, DC · On-site

$19.75 - $24/hr

... professional pastry/bakery experience in upscale casual, casual-fine, fine dining, or hotel pastry; culinary/pastry program a plus. * Strong scaling and baking fundamentals (mixing methods, proofing ...

José Andrés Group

Pastry Cook

Washington, DC · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... professional pastry/bakery experience in upscale casual, casual-fine, fine dining, or hotel pastry; culinary/pastry program a plus. * Strong scaling and baking fundamentals (mixing methods, proofing ...

Zantech

Chief Enterprise Architect

Arlington, VA · On-site

PMP Technical Roadmap and Future-Proofing & Tech Horizon Parity Plan (architectural input ... Professional-level cloud architect certification (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsProfessional Proofreader JobsProfessional Proofreader Jobs in Washington, DC

Professional Proofreader information

See Washington, DC salary details

$15

$31

$49

How much do professional proofreader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional proofreader in Washington, DC is $31.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $38.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a professional proofreader do?

A professional proofreader reviews written content to identify and correct errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that documents are clear, consistent, and free of mistakes before publication or submission. Proofreaders work on a wide range of materials, including books, articles, business documents, and digital content. They often collaborate with writers and editors to maintain the intended tone and style of the text.

What are some common challenges professional proofreaders face when working with different types of content?

Professional proofreaders often encounter challenges such as adapting to various writing styles, managing tight deadlines, and maintaining accuracy when reviewing large volumes of text. Each project may require familiarity with different style guides (like APA, Chicago, or AP), as well as the ability to spot nuanced errors in grammar, punctuation, and formatting. Additionally, proofreaders frequently collaborate with writers and editors to clarify uncertainties and ensure the final product aligns with client or publication standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional proofreader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Professional Proofreader, you need excellent command of grammar, punctuation, spelling, and style, often supported by a degree in English, journalism, or a related field. Familiarity with style guides (such as APA, Chicago, or AP), proofreading marks, and editing software like Microsoft Word’s Track Changes or Adobe Acrobat is essential. Attention to detail, time management, and strong communication skills set outstanding proofreaders apart. These skills ensure that all written materials are error-free, clear, and consistent, upholding the credibility and reputation of clients or organizations.

What is the difference between Professional Proofreader vs Copy Editor?

AspectProfessional ProofreaderCopy Editor
CredentialsTypically requires proofreading certifications or relevant experienceOften requires editing certifications or related qualifications
Work EnvironmentFreelance, publishing houses, or media companiesPublishing, media, or corporate communications
Primary FocusCorrecting grammar, punctuation, spelling, and formatting errorsImproving clarity, style, structure, and consistency
Industry UsageCommonly used in publishing, journalism, and academic fieldsUsed in publishing, marketing, and corporate editing

While both roles involve editing text, a Professional Proofreader primarily focuses on catching grammatical and typographical errors, ensuring the final document is error-free. A Copy Editor, on the other hand, works on refining the overall content, style, and structure to enhance readability and coherence. Both roles are essential in the publishing process but serve different stages of editing.

How do you become a professional proofreader?

To become a professional proofreader, you typically need strong language skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with editing tools. Many proofreaders pursue a relevant certification or degree in English, journalism, or related fields, and gain experience through internships or freelance work to build their portfolio.

Is there a demand for professional proofreaders?

Professional proofreaders are in steady demand across publishing, editing, and content creation industries, especially as online and print media grow. Strong language skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with editing tools increase job prospects in this field.

What qualifications do I need to be a professional proofreader?

A professional proofreader typically needs a strong command of language, excellent attention to detail, and good understanding of grammar, punctuation, and style guides. Many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field, and proficiency with editing tools or style manuals is often beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Proofreader jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Proofreader jobs in Washington, DC are:

Professional Proofreader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Proofreader job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,123 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Proofreader/Keyboarder

US Legislative Branch

Washington, DC • On-site

$48.39/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

GPO employees possess a diverse array of talent in many administrative fields and trades. We provide other agencies with innovative services for the printing, publishing, storage, and distribution of digital content. If you are an energetic, inventive individual looking for a challenging, yet rewarding career opportunity, GPO may be the place for you.
This position is part of the Government Integrated Print Services, Government Publishing Office in Washington, District of Columbia.Qualifications:To qualify for the Proofreader/Keyboarder, you must meet the following requirements:
Applicants must meet the following Screen Out Element/Job Element #1 to be considered eligible for this position: Ability to do the work of a Proofreader/Keyboarder without more than normal supervision. Your qualifications will first be evaluated against the prescribed Screen Out Element/Job Element. If your knowledge and ability in the Screen Out Element/Job Element is not sufficient, you will not receive further consideration.
In addition to Screen Out Element/Job Element #1 above, applicants must have the following knowledge and abilities:
1. Proofreading books, newspapers, or magazine proofs for publication or general distribution;
2. Manipulating electronic files to make corrections;
3. Keying manuscripts with a high degree of speed and accuracy;
4. Typesetting materials; and
5. Using and interpreting proofreader marks.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
All qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of this announcement to be considered.
Applicants that self-assess as qualified and that meet the eligibility requirements will then be further evaluated by completing a series of progressive hurdle assessments. Assessments that may include online assessments, work sample assessments, and/or interviews. Each assessment has a pre-determined cut score which must be achieved or exceeded to be "best qualified (BQ) and advance to the next assessment." Upon completion of all required hurdle assessments, applicants will be referred to the selecting official for consideration after their resume has been reviewed for qualifications and found qualified by the staffing specialist. Please note that the hurdle assessments will be held in-person only in the Government Publishing Office (GPO) located in Washington, D.C.Education:
Substitution of education in lieu of training or experience may not be used for this grade level.
Employment Type: OTHER

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