What Is an Entry Level Proofreader and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

As an entry-level proofreader, your primary duties include making sure a piece of writing follows the correct style guide and proofreading for errors in spelling, punctuation, and grammar. You read the written copy and make sure that the writer makes all necessary editorial changes. Your responsibilities involve working on new copy and going back to ensure that existing material meets new editorial standards as they roll out. You look at the layout of the work as well to ensure they used the right paragraph size, margins, spacing, and image layout. Your employer may also give you a role in copyediting, which involves editing for content and flow.

The minimum qualifications for an entry-level proofreader job usually include a bachelor’s degree in English or a related field. Completing an internship can be beneficial and help you to stand out against other entry-level proofreaders that may not have any hands-on experience. You need to have impeccable spelling and grammar skills so that you are making accurate corrections. Excellent attention to detail and an extended vocabulary are also valuable for proofreaders. You generally work as a team, so you should be able to communicate effectively and handle your duties promptly so that you meet the deadlines of the editorial schedule.