Junior Copy Editor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of content creation, the role of Junior Copy Editors has become increasingly crucial.

As the demand for polished, compelling, and error-free content grows, so does the need for meticulous individuals who can refine and perfect our written communications.

But what exactly is expected from a Junior Copy Editor?

Whether you are:

• A job aspirant trying to decipher the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to shape the ideal job requisition,
• Or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of the copy editing field,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Junior Copy Editor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve into it.

Junior Copy Editor Duties and Responsibilities

Junior Copy Editors are primarily responsible for assisting in the refinement of written materials and ensuring that the content is free of grammatical and factual errors before it is published.

They often work closely with writers and senior editors to ensure the integrity and quality of the content.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Proofreading content for grammatical, punctuation and spelling errors
• Checking facts and data for accuracy
• Maintaining the style and tone of the original text while making revisions
• Assisting writers in the development of their content
• Coordinating with senior editors to manage projects and meet deadlines
• Implementing feedback from senior editors and writers into revised content
• Assisting in the creation of style guides and editorial standards
• Ensuring that the final content aligns with the target audience and purpose of the text
• Checking text layout to ensure it adheres to the designated style guide
• Ensuring consistency in hyphenation, capitalization, fonts, and numerals within a text

 

Junior Copy Editor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a meticulous and talented Junior Copy Editor to oversee our content editing needs in a fast-paced work environment.

Your duties will include checking and editing copy for various documents, ensuring texts are engaging and informative.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, committed to producing high-quality work, and skilled at spotting inconsistencies, grammatical errors, and typos.

The Junior Copy Editor will be a part of a dynamic team, working under the supervision of a Senior Editor and must be proficient with style guides and have excellent editing skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Check text to ensure it is well written, logically structured and in the right style for the intended audience
• Correct grammar and spelling
• Check facts and raise queries with the author
• Ensure that texts are in line with the publisher’s ‘house style’ – for example, that hyphens, capital letters and optional spellings are used consistently
• Make sure that the text is in a format that suits the medium (eg web, print, mobile) and is visually appealing
• Ensure that illustrations and captions are correct
• Check that references, bibliographies, footnotes and endnotes are accurate
• Ensure that publications are prepared to schedule

 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism or related field
• Experience with MS Office and data management
• Experience working with content management systems is a plus
• Knowledge of AP style
• Excellent English language skills
• Strong fact-checking skills
• Detail-oriented
• Ability to work to tight deadlines

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Junior Copy Editor
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for team meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Senior Editor or Content Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 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 and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Junior Copy Editor Do?

A Junior Copy Editor usually works for various industries like publishing houses, advertising agencies, or media companies.

They may also offer freelance services.

They work in conjunction with writers, senior editors, and other copy editors to ensure that the content is accurate, clear, concise, and free of errors.

Their primary job involves reviewing and revising content for grammatical and typographical errors.

They make sure the style and tone of the content aligns with the company’s guidelines and audience preferences.

Junior Copy Editors also check for factual accuracy and ensure that the content does not infringe on any copyright laws.

They might be involved in reviewing and editing headlines, captions, and photo content.

Their duties may also extend to proofreading, fact-checking, and occasionally contributing to content creation.

They are responsible for maintaining the quality of the content and making sure it fulfills the purpose it was created for.

As they grow in their role, they may also be tasked with more complex editing jobs and could be involved in the planning and decision-making processes related to content production.

 

Junior Copy Editor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Junior Copy Editor should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Superior grammatical and writing skills to ensure content is free of errors, while upholding and improving the quality of the writing.
• Strong attention to detail to catch typos, grammatical errors, and inconsistencies in the text.
• Ability to work with content management systems for publishing content on various platforms.
• Good research skills to verify facts and to check the accuracy of the information presented in the content.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills to work effectively with writers, designers, and other team members.
• Time management skills to handle multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines efficiently.
• Strong knowledge of style guides, such as AP or Chicago, to ensure consistency throughout the content.
• Ability to accept and implement feedback effectively from senior editors and other team members.

 

Junior Copy Editor Experience Requirements

Entry-level Junior Copy Editor candidates often have 1 to 2 years of experience, usually gained through an internship, part-time role, or volunteer work in copy editing, content creation, or journalism.

This could also include experience gained during college, such as working for a student newspaper or magazine.

These professionals can also gain practical experience in related roles such as Editorial Assistant, Proofreader, Content Writer or Reporter, where they have the opportunity to hone their grammar, language, and fact-checking skills.

Candidates with more than 2 years of experience often develop their editing and proofreading skills in entry-level copy editing or writing roles.

They can also gain an understanding of writing style guides, adherence to tone, and the restructuring of content for better flow and clarity.

Those with more than 3 years of experience may have worked with various types of content, such as blogs, articles, press releases, and social media posts.

They might be prepared to take on more responsibility, such as leading a content project or managing freelance writers.

 

Junior Copy Editor Education and Training Requirements

Junior Copy Editors generally have a bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, communications, or a related field.

Their coursework often focuses on grammar, writing, editing, and media studies, providing the foundational skills necessary for the role.

In addition to their degree, it’s beneficial for Junior Copy Editors to have experience in the form of internships or work at school newspapers or magazines.

Many companies also require familiarity with style guides, such as the AP Stylebook or the Chicago Manual of Style, which are widely used in the publishing industry.

Some positions may require knowledge of specific software, such as Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or Adobe InDesign.

While not required, pursuing a certification in editing or proofreading can demonstrate a candidate’s proficiency and commitment to the field.

Finally, the ability to write clearly and concisely, strong attention to detail, and excellent organizational skills are crucial for success in this role.

 

Junior Copy Editor Salary Expectations

A Junior Copy Editor earns an average salary of $42,000 (USD) per year.

The salary may vary depending on the level of experience, the size of the publishing company, and the geographical location.

 

Junior Copy Editor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Junior Copy Editor need?

Junior Copy Editors must have strong written and verbal communication skills, with a keen eye for detail and a high level of accuracy.

They should have a good understanding of grammar and syntax, as well as proficiency in word processing and editing software.

Additionally, the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines is also important.

 

Do Junior Copy Editors need a degree?

While a degree is not always necessary, many employers prefer Junior Copy Editors to have a bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, Communications, or a related field.

Experience in writing and editing, such as internships or work with school publications, is also beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Junior Copy Editor resume?

A Junior Copy Editor’s resume should highlight their experience in writing and editing, as well as their ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple tasks.

It may also include proficiency in editing software, a solid understanding of grammar and style guides, and a portfolio of their writing or edited work.

 

What qualities make a good Junior Copy Editor?

A good Junior Copy Editor has a meticulous attention to detail, enabling them to spot errors and inconsistencies in text.

They should be good problem solvers, able to make improvements to enhance readability and clarity.

A strong work ethic and the ability to work under pressure are also important, as they often need to meet tight deadlines.

 

What is the career growth for a Junior Copy Editor?

Junior Copy Editors can progress in their careers by taking on more complex editing tasks and managing larger projects.

With enough experience, they may be promoted to senior copy editors, managing editors, or even editorial directors.

Some also choose to specialize in a particular type of editing or industry.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse behind the scenes of what it means to be a junior copy editor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about fixing typos.

It’s about shaping the written word, one phrase at a time.

With our handy junior copy editor job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every word you edit is part of a broader narrative.

Let’s write that story. Together.

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