Copy Editor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the publishing world, the need for skilled copy editors has never been more critical.

As the written word continues to evolve and expand, so does the demand for meticulous minds who can refine, perfect, and safeguard our textual content.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a copy editor?

Whether you are:

A job seeker attempting to understand the core of this role,
A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
Or simply fascinated by the inner mechanics of copy editing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable copy editor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Contents show

Copy Editor Duties and Responsibilities

Copy Editors are focused on ensuring the accuracy, consistency, and quality of written content.

They oversee the content’s grammar, spelling, and style, and also ensure that the message is clear and engaging.

Their primary responsibilities include:

Reviewing, editing, and proofreading content for errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling
Ensuring that the content follows the editorial guidelines and policies of the publication
Checking text for style, readability, and adherence to editorial policies
Arranging page layouts of photos, articles, and advertisements
Verifying facts, dates, and statistics, using standard reference sources
Revising content for clarity, flow, and coherence
Working closely with writers to ensure the text is in line with the writer’s intent and the publication’s style
Checking for potential legal issues, such as libelous statements, and working with legal teams to mitigate risks
Contributing ideas for headlines, stand-firsts, and captions

Copy Editor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented Copy Editor to ensure our content is clear, concise, and consistent.

The Copy Editor’s responsibilities include reviewing and correcting written material to improve accuracy, readability, and ensure that it is free of error, omission, inconsistency, and repetition.

Our ideal candidate will be a passionate wordsmith with a strong command of the English language and an eye for detail.

Knowledge of AP style guide and previous experience in a similar role is a plus.

Responsibilities

Read and correct content for clarity, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and syntax.
Ensure the consistency in content, style, and tone.
Make suggestions to enhance readability and ensure the text is in line with the publisher’s ‘house style’.
Collaborate with writers and designers to produce high-quality content.
Fact-check dates, figures, and facts using standard reference sources.
Implement and enforce the company’s style guide.
Coordinate with writers and other editors for project completion.

Qualifications

Proven work experience as a Copy Editor, or similar role.
Excellent command of the English language.
Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask.
Working knowledge of AP style guide.
Familiarity with publishing software and content management systems.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, or related field.

Benefits

401(k)
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Retirement plan
Paid time off
Professional development opportunities

Additional Information

Job Title: Copy Editor
Work Environment: Office setting with potential for remote work. Minimal travel may be required.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Editor in Chief or Managing Editor.
Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
Employment Type: Full-time
Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a sample of your editing work to [email address or application portal].

What Does a Copy Editor Do?

Copy Editors typically work for publishing companies, newspapers, magazines, or digital media outlets.

They may also work freelance, providing services to various clients across different industries.

Their primary role is to review and correct written material to improve accuracy, readability, and ensure that it is free of error, omission, inconsistency, and repetition.

This process involves checking grammar, punctuation, spelling, syntax, and facts.

Copy Editors also work closely with authors to ensure the original tone and voice of the text are maintained while making necessary changes.

They may suggest possible titles, restructure sentences or whole sections for better flow, and ensure the text aligns with the targeted audience and medium.

They also ensure that the text adheres to the style guides of the publication or clients and meets the necessary publishing requirements.

Moreover, Copy Editors may be involved in the final stages of publication, checking proofs and liaising with the design and production teams to ensure a smooth printing process.

In the digital realm, they may work on the layout, adding hyperlinks, or embedding multimedia elements.

In sum, a Copy Editor plays a crucial role in refining and preparing written material for publication, ensuring it conveys the intended message effectively and professionally.

Copy Editor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient copy editor should possess a broad range of skills and qualifications to ensure the quality and accuracy of content.

This includes:

Strong command of the English language, grammar, and punctuation rules to edit and revise written materials effectively.
Exceptional attention to detail to identify and correct errors in spelling, grammar, syntax, and formatting.
Excellent reading comprehension skills to understand and maintain the author’s voice and style.
Strong communication skills to interact and collaborate with writers and other team members to discuss and implement revisions.
Proficiency in using editing software and tools for proofreading and fact-checking.
Problem-solving skills to identify inconsistencies, inaccuracies, and potential legal issues in the content.
Ability to work under tight deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
A keen understanding of the target audience and cultural sensitivity to ensure the content is appropriate and engaging.
Knowledge of publishing standards and guidelines, along with a familiarity with different style guides such as APA, MLA, and Chicago.

Copy Editor Experience Requirements

A Copy Editor typically starts out with a degree in English, Journalism, Communication, or a related field.

Any hands-on editing experience gained through internships, part-time roles, or volunteering in student publications, are highly valued in the industry.

Entry-level copy editors may have 1 to 2 years of experience in proofreading and editing, often gained through roles such as Editorial Assistant, Content Writer, or Proofreader.

They may also gain relevant experience by working in advertising agencies, publishing houses, or news organizations.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are expected to have developed their proofreading and copy editing skills, as well as their ability to uphold the style and tone of the publication or organization they are working for.

They may have gained this experience in roles such as Staff Writer, Associate Editor, or Senior Copy Editor.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are often considered experts in their field.

They may have some managerial experience in their background, making them suitable for positions like Managing Editor or Editorial Director.

They may also have specialized knowledge or experience in certain areas, such as technical writing, academic editing, or legal editing.

Copy Editor Education and Training Requirements

Copy Editors typically hold a bachelor’s degree in journalism, English, communication, or a related field.

They should have a strong foundation in grammar, spelling, punctuation, syntax, and the stylistic aspects of writing.

Having a comprehensive understanding of editorial guidelines, style manuals, and publication processes is also necessary.

In addition to their degree, they should have practical experience that can be gained through internships or student media involvement.

For more specialized roles, such as scientific or medical copy editing, a background or additional coursework in the specific field may be required.

Although not mandatory, certification in copy editing is available from organizations like the American Society of Newspaper Editors (ASNE) and can bolster a copy editor’s credentials.

Advanced degrees in journalism, English, or related fields may be advantageous for those looking to progress into more senior editorial roles.

Continued education and staying abreast of changes in language usage, industry trends, and new editing tools is important for career advancement.

Copy Editor Salary Expectations

A Copy Editor earns an average salary of $52,221 (USD) per year.

The actual income can differ based on the level of experience, the size and type of the publishing company, and the location of the job.

Copy Editor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a copy editor need?

A copy editor should have excellent grammar and punctuation skills, as well as a good understanding of writing style guidelines.

Attention to detail is crucial for detecting inconsistencies and errors in text.

They should also have strong research skills to check the accuracy of information.

Understanding of the subject matter is a plus, as it helps in editing for clarity and coherence.

Do copy editors need a degree?

While a degree is not always mandatory, most employers prefer candidates with a degree in English, Journalism, Communication, or a related field.

Some also require a background in the specific subject area they will be editing, especially for more technical publications.

Experience in editing, proofreading, or writing can be a significant advantage.

What should you look for in a copy editor resume?

On a copy editor’s resume, look for a solid background in English, Journalism, or a related field.

Additionally, work experience as a copy editor, proofreader, or writer should be emphasized.

It’s also beneficial if they have experience in the specific subject area of your publication.

Familiarity with style guides and editing software is a plus.

What qualities make a good copy editor?

A good copy editor has a strong eye for detail, catching errors and inconsistencies that others might overlook.

They have excellent language skills and a deep understanding of grammar and style rules.

Good copy editors are patient and meticulous, able to spend hours reviewing text carefully.

They are also good communicators, able to give and receive feedback effectively.

What is the difference between a copy editor and a content editor?

While both roles involve improving the quality of written material, a copy editor primarily focuses on correcting grammar, spelling, punctuation, and ensuring consistency in style.

On the other hand, a content editor looks at the bigger picture, focusing on the structure, flow, and relevance of the content.

They may suggest larger rewrites or rearrangements of sections to improve readability and coherence.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed some light on what it genuinely entails to be a copy editor.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about correcting grammatical errors.

It’s about shaping compelling narratives, one word at a time.

With our handy copy editor job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to take the plunge.

But why limit yourself?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to meticulously curated job listings or honing your resume to the highest standard.

Always remember:

Every word you edit contributes to a larger story.

Let’s craft that narrative. Together.

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