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Proofreader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ampcus

Formatter/Proofreader

Richmond, VA · On-site

Formatter/Proofreader Job Location: Richmond, VA Important Notes: * The decision to release two positions is driven by the Hiring Manager's requirement to secure distinct skill expertise.

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How much do proofreader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 qualifications do I need to be a proofreader?

Proofreaders typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong language skills, and excellent attention to detail. Many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field, and proficiency with editing tools or style guides such as the Chicago Manual of Style or AP Stylebook.

What does a proofreader do?

A proofreader reviews written content to identify and correct errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, and formatting. Their main goal is to ensure the text is accurate, clear, and consistent before it is published or shared. Proofreaders often work with authors, editors, and publishers to maintain high-quality standards in books, articles, marketing materials, and other documents.

Is there a demand for proofreaders?

Proofreading is a consistent part of the publishing, editing, and content creation industries, with demand driven by the need for error-free written materials. Freelance proofreaders and those with specialized skills in editing tools or certifications often find opportunities across various sectors, including publishing, marketing, and academic publishing.

What are some typical challenges proofreaders face when working with tight deadlines?

Proofreaders often encounter tight deadlines, especially when working with publishing houses, marketing agencies, or news organizations. The main challenge is maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail while working quickly to meet these deadlines. It requires strong time management skills, the ability to focus under pressure, and sometimes collaborating closely with editors or writers to resolve last-minute issues. Staying organized and developing efficient workflows can help proofreaders consistently deliver quality work on time.

How much do proofreaders make?

Proofreaders typically earn between $12 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and whether they work freelance or for a company. Entry-level proofreaders may start at lower rates, while experienced professionals or those with specialized skills can command higher pay. Salaries can also vary based on the complexity of the material and the tools used, such as editing software.

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 exceptional language proficiency, attention to detail, and a strong grasp of grammar and style, often supported by a degree in English or a related field. Familiarity with editing tools such as Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat, and style guides like AP or Chicago Manual of Style is typically required. Excellent time management, focus, and communication skills help proofreaders deliver accurate work and collaborate with writers or editors. These skills ensure that written materials are error-free, consistent, and professional, which is critical for maintaining credibility and quality in published content.

What is the difference between Proofreader vs Copy Editor?

AspectProofreaderCopy Editor
Primary FocusCorrects grammar, spelling, punctuationRevises style, clarity, structure
Skills & CertificationsLanguage proficiency, attention to detailLanguage skills, editing experience
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, freelance, mediaPublishing, marketing, corporate
Common UsageFinal review before publicationContent development and improvement

Proofreaders focus on catching grammatical and typographical errors to ensure accuracy. Copy editors go beyond, revising content for clarity, style, and flow. While both roles require strong language skills, copy editing involves more in-depth editing and rewriting. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right role for their skills and career goals.

What Are Proofreaders?

Proofreaders are hired to review and find mistakes in printed or digital materials. Traditionally, they were employed by newspapers and book publishers to correct initial versions of writings before they printed final copies. Now, most proofreaders work on digital formats and are hired to read blogs, news sites, social media updates, and online reviews. A Proofreader sometimes doubles as a Copy Editor, correcting grammar and spelling mistakes as they work and offering suggestions to improve the copy. They also make sure the layout of the page is readable, and that page elements do not hinder or cover any text.

How do I get hired as a proofreader?

To get hired as a proofreader, candidates should develop strong language and grammar skills, often demonstrated through a relevant degree or certification. Building a portfolio of editing work and gaining experience with editing tools like Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat can improve job prospects; many employers also look for attention to detail and familiarity with style guides such as APA or Chicago Manual of Style.
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Proofreader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Proofreader job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 7% Temporary, 22% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 7% 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

Posted 14 days ago

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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