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Proofreader Salaries Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Proofreader

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$75K - $77K/yr

Proofreader Summary: Proofreader with a minimum of five years' legal experience. Shift: Monday ... The base salary offer is based on a variety of factors which includes, but is not limited to ...

Proofreader

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$5.7K - $5.9K/mo

PROOFREADER $5,774.00 - $5,947.00 L New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable. # of Positions: Multiple Work ...

Proofreader LNK International, Inc. is one of the nation's largest manufacturers of solid and ... The salary listed is a good faith determination of potential base compensation that may be offered ...

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Proofreader Salaries information

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$13

$27

$43

How much do proofreader salaries jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for proofreader salaries 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.

Are proofreaders still in demand?

Proofreaders are still in demand, especially in publishing, media, and digital content industries, where accuracy and quality control are essential. The rise of remote work and digital publishing has increased opportunities for freelance and in-house proofreaders, with proficiency in editing tools and strong language skills being valuable assets.

What are some common challenges proofreaders face in their daily work?

Proofreaders often encounter tight deadlines, high volumes of material to review, and the need for intense concentration over long periods. Maintaining accuracy while working quickly can be demanding, especially when handling complex or technical documents. Additionally, proofreaders must adapt to various style guides and collaborate effectively with writers, editors, and designers to ensure consistency and clarity in the final product.

What are Proofreader Salaries?

Proofreader salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, industry, and whether the position is freelance or full-time. In the United States, the average annual salary for a proofreader ranges from $35,000 to $55,000, with entry-level positions typically earning toward the lower end and experienced proofreaders or those in specialized fields earning more. Freelance proofreaders often charge hourly or per-word rates, which can also influence total earnings. Geographic location and the type of employer, such as publishing houses, media companies, or corporations, can further impact salary levels.

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

To thrive as a Proofreader, you need a keen eye for detail, strong grammar and spelling knowledge, and often a degree in English or a related field. Familiarity with editing tools such as Microsoft Word's Track Changes, Adobe Acrobat, and style guides like AP or Chicago Manual of Style is typical. Excellent time management, communication skills, and the ability to focus for extended periods help proofreaders stand out. These skills ensure accuracy and consistency in written content, which is crucial for maintaining professionalism and credibility.

How do I get hired as a proofreader?

To get hired as a proofreader, you should develop strong language and grammar skills, often demonstrated through a relevant degree or certification. Building a portfolio of editing work, gaining experience with editing tools, and applying to job postings on freelance platforms or company websites can improve your chances of employment.

What qualifications do I need to become a proofreader?

To become a proofreader, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, along with strong language skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in grammar and punctuation. Many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree or certification in proofreading or editing, and familiarity with editing tools or style guides can be advantageous.

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 human proofreaders. Proofreading still requires human judgment for context, nuance, and accuracy, especially in complex or creative texts. Many proofreaders now combine AI technology with their skills to improve efficiency and quality.

What is the difference between Proofreader Salaries vs Copy Editor Salaries?

AspectProofreader SalariesCopy Editor Salaries
Average Salary$40,000 - $55,000$45,000 - $60,000
Required SkillsAttention to detail, grammar, punctuationEditing, rewriting, style consistency
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, media, freelancePublishing, media, corporate communications
CertificationsNone required, but certifications like CP or CPE helpEditing certifications beneficial but not mandatory

Proofreader and copy editor roles share similar environments and skills, but copy editors typically have higher salaries due to additional editing responsibilities and skill requirements. Both roles are essential in publishing and media industries, with salary differences reflecting the scope of work.

More about Proofreader Salaries jobs
What cities are hiring for Proofreader Salaries jobs? Cities with the most Proofreader Salaries job openings:
What states have the most Proofreader Salaries jobs? States with the most job openings for Proofreader Salaries jobs include:

$75K - $77K/yr

Other

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Job description

Proofreader

Summary: Proofreader with a minimum of five years' legal experience. Shift: Monday - Friday 6:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Cold reads.
  • Full reads.
  • Ability to read handwritten, word-processed, or printed documents against a mark-up or new master for accuracy of transcription, grammar, sense, and typos.
  • Financial printer proofs.
  • Defined terms checks.
  • Cross-references checks.
  • Manual redlining and blacklining.
  • Familiarity with Adobe's annotating tool for marking PDFs.
  • Creating PDFs using E-copy of proofreading mark-ups.
  • Proofreading audio and video transcriptions.
  • Assisting when needed in handling and monitoring incoming e-mail requests.
  • Following up with Proofreader Workflow Coordinator, as well as requestor, on additional proofreading questions or requests.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Suite 2010 (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Visio).
  • Flexibility in covering other Proofreading shifts, as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Team player mentality.
  • Ability to work in a collaborative on-site production environment, requiring close team coordination.
  • Resourcefulness.
  • Thorough knowledge of proofreading procedures, and symbols.
  • Ability to work under time constraints.
  • Proficiency in the use of the Black's Law Dictionary and citation books.
  • Familiarity with current Bluebook formatting guidelines.
  • Knowledge of blacklining and cumulative blacklining.

Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree preferred.
  • Minimum of five years of proofreading experience at a law firm.

Working Conditions:

Normal office environment with little exposure to excessive noise, dust, temperature, and the like.

Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz provides competitive compensation and benefits to its employees ensuring that we attract and retain the most talented individuals. The expected base salary for this role ranges from $75,500 – $77,000. The base salary offer is based on a variety of factors which includes, but is not limited to, qualifications, education, and experience.