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Temporary Copy Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ACD, Copy

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$70 - $75/hr

Temporary Salary: $70-75 Hourly W2, Benefits and 401k matching Start Date: ASAP Note: This role is ... It is a unique, highly strategic 50% writing and 50% tactical editing split. Sitting inside the ...

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Temporary Copy Editor information

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$12

$28

$47

How much do temporary copy editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary copy editor in the United States is $28.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $31.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Temporary Copy Editors face when acclimating to new teams or projects?

Temporary Copy Editors often need to quickly adapt to different editorial styles, workflows, and team dynamics with minimal onboarding. They may encounter varied style guides, content management systems, and communication preferences across assignments. Effective communication and flexibility are essential for building rapport and delivering high-quality work under tight deadlines. Proactively asking clarifying questions and familiarizing oneself with project-specific guidelines can help smooth the transition and ensure consistent editing outcomes.

What is the difference between Temporary Copy Editor vs Freelance Copywriter?

AspectTemporary Copy EditorFreelance Copywriter
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in English, Journalism, or related field; editing certifications are a plusOften has a background in marketing, communications, or writing; no specific certifications required
Work EnvironmentUsually works for a single employer or agency, often in an office or remote settingWorks independently, serving multiple clients across various industries
Industry UsageCommonly employed in publishing, media, and corporate communicationsPrevalent in marketing, advertising, and content creation sectors

The main difference between a Temporary Copy Editor and a Freelance Copywriter lies in their roles and focus. Temporary Copy Editors primarily review and refine existing content for clarity, grammar, and style, often working within a specific organization. Freelance Copywriters create original content tailored to client needs, emphasizing marketing and engagement. Both roles require strong writing skills, but their responsibilities and work settings differ significantly.

What are temporary copy editors?

Temporary copy editors are professionals hired for a limited period to review, revise, and correct written content for grammar, style, punctuation, and clarity. They often work on short-term projects, such as special publications, seasonal workloads, or to cover staff absences. Temporary copy editors can work in various industries, including publishing, media, marketing, and corporate communications. Their primary goal is to ensure that all content meets the organization's standards and is free of errors before publication.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Copy Editor, you need exceptional command of grammar, spelling, and punctuation, along with experience in editing and a degree in English, journalism, or a related field. Familiarity with style guides such as AP or Chicago Manual of Style and proficiency in editing software like Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat are typically required. Strong attention to detail, adaptability, and effective communication skills help you excel in fast-paced environments and collaborate with writers or teams. These skills ensure accuracy, consistency, and high-quality content under tight deadlines.
More about Temporary Copy Editor jobs
What cities are hiring for Temporary Copy Editor jobs? Cities with the most Temporary Copy Editor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Copy Editor jobs? The most popular types of Copy Editor jobs are:
What states have the most Temporary Copy Editor jobs? States with the most job openings for Temporary Copy Editor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Temporary Copy Editor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,809 per year, or $28.8 per hour.
Editor - Department of Neurosurgery

Editor - Department of Neurosurgery

Penn State University

Hershey, PA • On-site

$49K - $71K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

201st of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Department of Neurosurgery is currently looking for an editor to support our research team with scientific papers, grants, and publications. The duties include reviewing, editing, and rewriting various documents and content for publications, ensuring that all documents meet the required format and content standards, as well as evaluating content for clarity, accuracy, and consistency. The role will also include assisting with the development of the department newsletter and managing social media accounts specific to the department.
As noted above, the candidate will be responsible for a wide range of activities, some of which can be complex in nature and may include the following tasks, and/or projects of a functional nature:
  • Proofread copy to detect and correct errors in spelling, punctuation, and syntax
  • Read, evaluate, and edit manuscripts or other materials submitted for publication, and confer with authors regarding changes in content, style, and organization
  • Develop story or content ideas, considering identified target audience
  • Prepare, rewrite, and edit copy to improve readability and accessibility (if applicable)
  • Oversee publication production, including artwork, layout, typesetting, and printing, ensuring adherence to deadlines and budget requirements
  • Plan the contents of publications according to the publication's style, editorial policy, and publishing requirements.
  • Allocate print space for story text, photos, and illustrations according to space parameters and copy significance
  • Make manuscript acceptance or revision recommendations to the publisher
  • Arrange for copyright permissions
  • May write text, such as stories, articles, editorials, or newsletters
  • May supervise staff members, including hiring, development, and performance management for part-time, student, and/or temporary workers or volunteers
  • May validate and pay invoices according to current policies, practices, and procedures.
  • May coordinate travel arrangements, process reimbursements, monitor and track expenditures, and place supply orders.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as assigned to support departmental operations and research objectives.

Additionally, the candidate will need to demonstrate the ability to perform
tasks under general supervision, using available guidelines to make appropriate adaptations to routine situations and refers other situations to their supervisor. The candidate will support team decisions and follow through with team responsibilities. They will interpret and communicate information ideas and instructions clearly and accurately both verbally and in written materials intended for distribution within the working unit, University, and/or external audiences.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $49,188.00 - $71,340.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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