What Is an Entry Level Copy Editor and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

As an entry-level copy editor, your duties include correcting text for grammar, spelling, and punctuation. In addition to these basic edits, you also read articles to ensure they communicate clearly and correctly and that each piece meets editorial guidelines for the publication or outlet. As an entry-level copy editor, your responsibilities are likely performed within the purview of a larger editing team or under the supervision of a senior editor. Copy editors and writers frequently work together to edit a draft before submitting it to a lead editor.

The qualifications needed to start working as an entry-level copy editor include a degree, a minute attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the English language. Copy editors typically begin their careers after earning a bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, or a related field. You can hone your copy editing skills by undertaking an internship, working on an editing project with your peers, or joining a student newspaper or magazine. Publications often rely on manuals such as the AP Stylebook to inform their copy editing guidelines, and familiarity with multiple style guides can set you apart from other candidates.