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Professional Proofreader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

R.R. Donnelley

Proofreader

Columbus, OH · On-site

$16.59 - $22.50/hr

... Proofreader position is responsible for reviewing legal documents for grammar and verbiage ... Ability to communicate professionally both verbally and in writing Must be self-motivated with a ...

RR Donnelley

Senior Proofreader

Warrenville, IL · On-site

Bachelor's Degree. * 1 year professional experience. * Minimum 3-5 years in technical editing, data validation, or a specialized QC role. * Exceptional accuracy and attention to detail are mandatory.

RR Donnelley

Senior Proofreader

Warrenville, IL · On-site +1

$20.38 - $28.83/hr

Bachelor's Degree. * 1 year professional experience. * Minimum 3-5 years in technical editing, data validation, or a specialized QC role. * Exceptional accuracy and attention to detail are mandatory.

RR Donnelley

Senior Proofreader

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$20.38 - $28.83/hr

Bachelor's Degree. * 1 year professional experience. * Minimum 3-5 years in technical editing, data validation, or a specialized QC role. * Exceptional accuracy and attention to detail are mandatory.

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Professional Proofreader information

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How much do professional proofreader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional proofreader in the United States is $27.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How can I become a professional proofreader?

To become a professional proofreader, develop strong language and grammar skills, often through a relevant degree or certification. Gain experience by practicing on various texts and familiarize yourself with editing tools like Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat. Building a portfolio and seeking freelance or entry-level positions can help establish your career in proofreading.

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 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.

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.

Is AI replacing proofreaders?

AI tools are increasingly used to assist proofreaders by identifying grammar, spelling, and style errors, but they do not fully replace the critical thinking and nuanced judgment of professional proofreaders. Human proofreaders are still essential for ensuring context, tone, and complex editing needs are met, especially in specialized or sensitive content. Many proofreaders now combine their skills with AI tools to improve efficiency and accuracy.

What qualifications do I need to become a proofreader?

To become a professional proofreader, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, and many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field. Strong language skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with editing tools or style guides are essential qualifications for the role.

How much do proof readers get paid?

Proofreaders' salaries vary based on experience, location, and whether they work freelance or for a company. On average, proofreaders earn between $15 and $45 per hour, with experienced professionals or those specializing in technical editing earning higher rates. Many proofreaders also charge per word or project, and strong language skills and attention to detail are essential for higher pay.
More about Professional Proofreader jobs
What cities are hiring for Professional Proofreader jobs? Cities with the most Professional Proofreader job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Proofreader jobs? The most popular types of Proofreader jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Proofreader jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Proofreader jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Professional Proofreader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Professional Proofreader jobs are:
Professional Proofreader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Proofreader job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% As Needed. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,520 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Election Materials Proofreader - English Language Skills (Open)

San Mateo County, CA

San Mateo, CA • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Election Materials Proofreader - English Language Skills (Open)

Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sanmateo/jobs/newprint/5372349)

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Election Materials Proofreader - English Language Skills (Open)

Salary

See Position Description

Location

County of San Mateo, CA

Job Type

Temporary

Job Number

E337CF

Department

Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder

Division

Elections

Opening Date

06/10/2026

Bargaining Unit

37

  • Description

  • Benefits

  • Questions

Description

PEOPLE FIRST – Conduct fair, accurate, and transparent elections to increase public participation and confidence.

The San Mateo County Registration & Elections Division is seeking full-time seasonal extra-help Election Materials Proofreaders to assist in the upcoming November 3, 2026, Statewide General Election. This is an excellent nonpartisan opportunity to be involved in the election process!

We are currently seeking dedicated and hard-working individuals for the position of Proofreader. Proofreaders will be hired into one of four language-based teams (English, Chinese, Filipino, or Spanish). This announcement is for English proofreaders.

All Proofreaders will be responsible for proofreading and copyediting election materials leading up to established election deadlines. Proofreaders will review, edit, and proofread documents for accuracy, context, readability, and syntax.

Proofreaders will work remotely using equipment provided by the Registration & Elections Division. Towards the end of the assignment, two days of on-site work will be required for final proofs of physical material.

Important: Per County policy, employees of the County of San Mateo must reside in California.

Examples of projects and materials needing to be proofread include, but are not limited to:

  • Sample Ballot & Voter Information Pamphlet

  • Official Ballot

  • Remote Accessible Vote by Mail system

  • Website content

  • Legal documents

  • Letters, flyers, postcards, and other notices to voters

The Elections Materials Proofreader is classified as an Office Specialist. The hourly wage for this position starts at $33.44.

NOTE: This is an extra help, at-will assignment, paid on an hourly basis. Extra help hours are dependent on the business needs of the department and therefore work hours may vary from week to week. Extra help employees shall not exceed 1,040 hours of work per fiscal year. Some extra help positions are eligible for benefits under the Affordable Care Act. Extra help employees are not guaranteed permanent status at the end of the assignment.

Qualifications

Candidates for the Proofreader position MUST have:

  • Experience editing, proofreading, or copyediting English text, whether in a paid, educational, or volunteer capacity

  • Experience using Microsoft Office Suite, including Word and Excel

  • Strong technical skills, including the ability to perform basic troubleshooting for software and hardware problems, the ability to research problems and solutions, and the ability to learn new software and procedures quickly

Ideal Candidates for the Proofreader positions will have the following:

Education:

Bachelor's degree or higher in proofreading, editing, journalism, literature, or another related field.

Technical writing certificate or other related certification (preferred).

Work Experience:

  • At least six months of experience proofreading documents in the target language (English).

  • Professional background in proofreading, editing, journalism, creative or technical writing, or another related field.

Technical Skills:

  • Mastery of Microsoft Office Suite applications: Word, Excel, Outlook, and OneNote.

  • Familiarity with Microsoft SharePoint and One Drive.

  • Experience with or ability to learn Microsoft Teams or equivalent video-conferencing software.

Critical Skills for all Election Materials Proofreader – Office Specialist positions:

The ability to prioritize work, coordinate several activities simultaneously, organize and maintain accurate files and records, use spreadsheets to track files and task progress, and understand and carry out oral and written directions. Strong organization and time management skills are essential.

Office hours are 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday. These positions WILL require weekend and evening work assignments, sometimes with short notice. The selected individuals MUST be available for the entire employment period until the completion of their assignment for the November 3, 2026, Statewide General Election.

The Elections Division is an exciting, fast-paced environment, especially as elections approach. This is an excellent opportunity to work with a group of dynamic, well-organized, and highly efficient individuals committed to the democratic process. More information about the organization is available on the Elections Division website www.smcacre.gov .

Application/Examination

Interviews for this position will be conducted remotely over Microsoft Teams. The interview portion will include a test of proofreading skill. The test will require the use of Microsoft Word or equivalent software.

This is an extra-help recruitment. Anyone may apply. To apply you must complete the San Mateo County Application Form.

IMPORTANT: Applications for this position will only be accepted online. If you are currently on the County's website, you may click the "Apply" button. If you are not on the County's website, please go to https://jobs.smcgov.org/ to apply. Responses to the supplemental questions must be submitted in addition to our regular employment application form. A resume will not be accepted as a substitute for the required employment application and supplemental questionnaire.

This is a continuous recruitment which may close at any time. The final filing date will be posted five days in advance on this job announcement.

Apply immediately. This recruitment is open on a continuous basis and selections may be made at any time within the process.

Tentative Recruitment Schedule

Application Screening: June 15-26, 2026

Interviews: June 29-July 10, 2026

About the County

San Mateo County is centrally located between San Francisco, San Jose, and the East Bay. With over 750,000 residents, San Mateo is one of the largest and most diverse counties in California and serves a multitude of culturally, ethnically, and linguistically diverse communities.

The County of San Mateo, as an employer, is committed to advancing equity to ensure that all employees are welcomed in a safe and inclusive environment. The County seeks to hire, support, and retain employees who reflect our diverse community. We encourage applicants with diverse backgrounds and lived experiences to apply. Eighty percent of employees surveyed stated that they would recommend the County as a great place to work.

The County of San Mateo is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion at all levels.

We invite you to explore our Benefits-at-a-Glance (https://www.smcgov.org/sites/default/files/2025-05/Benefits%20at%20a%20Glance%204.29.25.pdf) page for a snapshot of the comprehensive and competitive benefits available to eligible employees of the County of San Mateo. From health and wellness to financial security, our benefits are designed to support you at every stage of your career. (Please note that benefits are subject to change.)

In addition to core benefits, the County is proud to offer a variety of wellness and professional development programs to help you grow both personally and professionally. Most of these enriching opportunities are available during work hours and come at no cost to you.

As a County employee, you’ll also be covered by the federal Social Security system, earning valuable retirement benefits based on your salary and years of service.

01

How did you learn about this position?

  • County of San Mateo Website

  • County of San Mateo Job Interest Card Notification

  • County Hosted Virtual Event

  • County Hosted Job Fair

  • CalOpps.org

  • Civic Match

  • College/University Career Center

  • Community-based Organization Posting

  • Facebook/Instagram

  • Friend or Relative

  • GovernmentJobs.com

  • Indeed

  • Job Fair

  • LinkedIn

  • Professional Publication/Website (Please specify in next question)

  • X (formerly called Twitter)

  • Zip Recruiter

  • Other (Please specify in next question)

02

If you answered, "Professional Publication/Website" or "Other" to the above question, please indicate below how you learned about this position. Your response to this question will help us in better marketing County jobs. Type NA if not applicable.

Required Question

Employer

County of San Mateo

Address

County of San Mateo Human Resources Department 500 County Center, 4th Floor Redwood City, California, 94063-1663

Phone

(650) 363-4343

Website

https://jobs.smcgov.org

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