Proofreaders and Copy Markers
Read transcript or proof type setup to detect and mark for correction any grammatical, typographical, or compositional errors. Excludes workers whose primary duty is editing copy. Includes proofreaders of braille.
Common Job Titles
- Copy Editor
- News Copy Editor
- Proofreader
- Typesetter
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeIdentify grammatical, typographical, and compositional errors in transcripts and proof type setups using advanced knowledge of English language conventions and style guides.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate written content for compliance with editorial standards and style requirements independently reviewing diverse document types under deadline constraints.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply grammar rules, punctuation standards, and compositional principles to diverse content types including braille transcripts when required.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret style guide specifications and communications and media formatting conventions applying industry-specific standards across varied publication types.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze textual information for consistency, accuracy, and adherence to formatting guidelines working with digital documents and print materials.Developing
- Hands-onOperate word processing and publishing software including Microsoft Office, Adobe InDesign, and specialized proofreading tools to review, mark, and track corrections efficiently.Developing
- KnowledgeDistinguish errors requiring editorial correction from intended stylistic choices interpreting context and author intent within established guidelines.Developing
- MindsetEngage with authors, editors, and production teams to clarify ambiguities and ensure accuracy maintaining professional communication standards.Developing
- KnowledgeOrganize proofreading workflows and prioritize multiple documents managing time effectively to meet publishing deadlines.Developing
- KnowledgeCompare revised text against original copy to verify accuracy of implemented corrections ensuring quality control throughout the editorial process.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Proofreaders and Copy Markers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
5,160
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $33,530. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,590. 50th percentile: U.S. $49,210. 75th percentile: U.S. $62,380. 90th percentile: U.S. $78,040. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $33,530 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $78,040 |
| Workers on average earn | $52,730 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- English Language5.0/5
- Communications and Media3.4/5
- Computers and Electronics3.0/5
- Administrative2.6/5
- Administration and Management2.4/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Adobe Acrobat
- Adobe After Effects
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe InDesign
- Adobe Photoshop
- HubSpot software
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Visio
- Microsoft Word
- WordPress
Technology Skills
- Adobe Captivate
- Adobe Dreamweaver
- Adobe FrameMaker
- Adobe InCopy
- After the Deadline
- Apple Final Cut Pro
- Apple iWork Keynote
- AutoCrit Editing Wizard
Tools & Equipment
- Computer data input scanners
- Copy machines
- Inkjet facsimile machines
- Laptop computers
- Laser facsimile machines
- Personal computers
- Printers' rulers
- Tablet computers