All About Proofreaders and Copy Markers
Occupation Description Read transcript or proof type setup to detect and mark for correction any grammatical, typographical, or compositional errors. Includes proofreaders of Braille.
What Do Proofreaders and Copy Markers Do On a Daily Basis?
- Consult reference books or secure aid of readers to check references with rules of grammar and composition.
- Correct or record omissions, errors, or inconsistencies found.
- Route proofs with marked corrections to authors, editors, typists, or typesetters for correction or reprinting.
- Read corrected copies or proofs to ensure that all corrections have been made.
- Consult with authors and editors regarding manuscript changes and suggestions.
- Archive documents, conduct research, and read copy, using the internet and various computer programs.
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Skills Needed to be a Proofreader or Copy Marker
Below is a list of the skills most Proofreaders and Copy Markers say are important on the job.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Other Proofreader or Copy Marker Job Titles
- Clerical Proofreader
- Editorial Assistant
- Data Examination Clerk
- Copy Chief
- Copyman
What Kind of Proofreader or Copy Marker Job Opportunities Are There?
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 14,200 jobs in the United States for Proofreader or Copy Marker. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 1.4% which is below the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 200 new jobs for Proofreader or Copy Marker by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 2,200 job openings in this field each year.

The states with the most job growth for Proofreader or Copy Marker are New Hampshire, Idaho, and Minnesota. Watch out if you plan on working in Maine, Kentucky, or Missouri. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Salary for a Proofreader or Copy Marker
The average yearly salary of a Proofreader or Copy Marker ranges between $23,220 and $63,080.

Proofreaders and Copy Markers who work in Washington, Maryland, or District of Columbia, make the highest salaries.
Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Proofreaders and Copy Markers in different U.S. states.
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
Arizona | $42,180 |
California | $44,250 |
Colorado | $39,680 |
Connecticut | $38,130 |
District of Columbia | $56,640 |
Florida | $36,350 |
Georgia | $30,120 |
Idaho | $28,010 |
Illinois | $48,060 |
Indiana | $37,430 |
Iowa | $29,490 |
Kansas | $33,660 |
Kentucky | $37,540 |
Maine | $30,060 |
Maryland | $54,780 |
Massachusetts | $41,930 |
Michigan | $37,290 |
Minnesota | $39,910 |
Missouri | $34,810 |
Montana | $42,630 |
Nebraska | $33,290 |
Nevada | $43,990 |
New Hampshire | $38,020 |
New Jersey | $48,170 |
New York | $46,370 |
North Carolina | $44,730 |
Oregon | $48,520 |
Pennsylvania | $37,340 |
South Carolina | $37,070 |
Tennessee | $34,590 |
Utah | $39,440 |
Vermont | $33,940 |
Virginia | $40,510 |
Washington | $53,490 |
Wisconsin | $43,240 |
Tools & Technologies Used by Proofreaders and Copy Markers
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Proofreaders and Copy Markers:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Access
- Adobe Systems Adobe Acrobat
- Microsoft Visio
- Adobe Systems Adobe Photoshop
- FileMaker Pro
- Adobe Systems Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Systems Adobe InDesign
- Adobe Systems Adobe Dreamweaver
- WordPress
- Adobe Systems Adobe After Effects
- Adobe Systems Adobe FrameMaker
- Adobe Systems Adobe Captivate
- Avid Technology Media Composer
- Apple iWork Keynote
- Bugzilla
Becoming a Proofreader or Copy Marker
What education is needed to be a Proofreader or Copy Marker?

How many years of work experience do I need?

Where do Proofreaders and Copy Markers Work?

Proofreaders and Copy Markers work in the following industries:

References:
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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