Proofreaders and Copy Markers
Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed
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.
Median pay: $51,120/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: -0.6% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 1,900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Mark copy to indicate and correct errors in type, arrangement, grammar, punctuation, or spelling, using standard printers' marks.
• Read corrected copies or proofs to ensure that all corrections have been made.
• Correct or record omissions, errors, or inconsistencies found.
• Compare information or figures on one record against same data on other records, or with original copy, to detect errors.
• Route proofs with marked corrections to authors, editors, typists, or typesetters for correction or reprinting.
• Consult reference books or secure aid of readers to check references with rules of grammar and composition.
• Consult with authors and editors regarding manuscript changes and suggestions.
• Archive documents, conduct research, and read copy, using the internet and various computer programs.
What's the median pay for Proofreaders and Copy Markers?
The median pay for Proofreaders and Copy Markers is $51,120 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Proofreaders and Copy Markers?
Employment for Proofreaders and Copy Markers is projected to change -0.6% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Proofreaders and Copy Markers?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Proofreaders and Copy Markers?
About 1,900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.