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Proofreading Books Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sotheby's

Cataloguer, Books and Collectibles

New York, NY · On-site

$60K - $68K/yr

THE ROLE The function of this role is to support the Books and Collectibles Department in New York ... and writing, proofreading, and coordination of proposals. * Liaise with the team to maintain ...

Wachtell Lipton

Proofreader

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$75K - $77K/yr

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 ...

Sourcebooks

Production Editor - Children's

Naperville, IL · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

Coordinate copyediting, proofreading, page production, and final file review to deliver books that meet Sourcebooks' quality standards. * Build strong partnerships with Editorial, Managing Editorial ...

Macmillan Learning

Senior Production Editor

Austin, TX · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

... 15 to 25 books at a time. They will manage the production editorial process from assessing manuscripts for copyediting needs to hiring and managing freelancers to proofreading and indexing page ...

New

Macmillan Learning

Senior Production Editor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

... 15 to 25 books at a time. They will manage the production editorial process from assessing manuscripts for copyediting needs to hiring and managing freelancers to proofreading and indexing page ...

New

Harvard University

Editorial Specialist

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$55/hr

Accepts and inputs both digital and hardcopy edits (utilizing proofreading marks) to books from managers and colleagues. Familiarity with interpreting proofreading marks in hardcopy and the ability ...

Cynet Systems

Administrative Assistant II

Boston, MA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Prepares documents for articles, cases, and presentations which may include proofreading ... Obtains books, articles, and other information. * Maintains accurate and organized electronic and ...

New

Harvard University

Editorial Specialist

Cambridge, MA · On-site

Accepts and inputs both digital and hardcopy edits (utilizing proofreading marks) to books from managers and colleagues. Familiarity with interpreting proofreading marks in hardcopy and the ability ...

Sourcebooks

Senior Production Editor

Naperville, IL · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

Manage production schedules, priorities, and critical milestones to ensure books are delivered on time and at the highest quality. * Coordinate copyediting, proofreading, page review, corrections ...

Sourcebooks LLC

Senior Production Editor

Naperville, IL · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

Manage production schedules, priorities, and critical milestones to ensure books are delivered on time and at the highest quality. * Coordinate copyediting, proofreading, page review, corrections ...

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Proofreading Books information

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$13

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How much do proofreading books jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for proofreading books 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 does proofreading a book involve?

Proofreading books involves carefully reviewing a manuscript to identify and correct errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting. A proofreader ensures that the text is free of typographical mistakes and adheres to the publisher's style guidelines. This process is typically the final step before a book is printed or published, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and professionalism in the finished product.

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

To thrive as a Book Proofreader, you need excellent command of grammar, spelling, and punctuation, often supported by a degree in English, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with style guides (such as Chicago Manual of Style), track changes in word processing software, and proofreading marks is typically necessary. Attention to detail, time management, and strong communication skills help ensure accuracy and smooth collaboration with authors and editors. These skills are crucial for delivering error-free manuscripts and maintaining the quality and reputation of published books.

What are some common challenges proofreaders face when working on books, and how can they be managed?

Proofreaders of books often encounter challenges such as maintaining attention to detail over long manuscripts, adapting to different authors' styles, and managing tight deadlines. It can also be difficult to balance the need to correct errors while preserving the author's original voice. To manage these challenges, it's helpful to take regular breaks to avoid fatigue, use style guides and checklists, and communicate clearly with editors and authors about any uncertainties or recurring issues.

What is the difference between Proofreading Books vs Copy Editing Books?

AspectProofreading BooksCopy Editing Books
Primary FocusCorrecting grammar, punctuation, spellingImproving clarity, style, structure
Skills NeededAttention to detail, grammar expertiseWriting, editing, rewriting skills
Work EnvironmentFreelance, publishing houses, editing firmsPublishing houses, freelance, editing agencies
CertificationsProofreading certifications, language proficiencyCopy editing certifications, editing courses

Proofreading books involves checking for grammatical and typographical errors, ensuring the text is error-free. Copy editing books goes further by refining the writing style, improving flow, and restructuring content. Both roles require strong language skills, but copy editing demands a deeper understanding of writing and style conventions. While proofreading focuses on surface errors, copy editing enhances overall readability and coherence.

Can you get paid for proofreading books?

Proofreading books is a legitimate job that can provide payment, often on a freelance or contract basis. Proofreaders typically earn per project or hour and may need strong language skills and attention to detail, sometimes using editing tools like track changes or style guides.

How do I become a proofreader for books?

To become a book proofreader, you should develop strong language and grammar skills, often through a degree in English, journalism, or related fields. Gaining experience with editing tools and building a portfolio can help, and some proofreaders pursue certifications from professional organizations to enhance credibility.

What qualifications do I need to be a proofreader?

To be a proofreader, strong language skills, excellent attention to detail, and a good understanding of grammar and style are essential. Many proofreaders have a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field, and familiarity with editing tools like Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat is helpful.
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Proofreading Books jobs near you
Infographic showing various Proofreading Books job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,520 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Proofreader/Keyboarder

US Legislative Branch

Washington, DC

$48.39/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 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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