What You Need to Know About Proofreader or Copy Marker
Proofreader or Copy Marker Definition Read transcript or proof type setup to detect and mark for correction any grammatical, typographical, or compositional errors. Includes proofreaders of Braille.
A Day in the Life of a Proofreader or Copy Marker
- Typeset and measure dimensions, spacing, and positioning of page elements, such as copy and illustrations, to verify conformance to specifications, using printer’s ruler or layout software.
- Archive documents, conduct research, and read copy, using the internet and various computer programs.
- Read corrected copies or proofs to ensure that all corrections have been made.
- Read proof sheets aloud, calling out punctuation marks and spelling unusual words and proper names.
- 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.
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What Every Proofreader or Copy Marker Should Know
Proofreaders and Copy Markers state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.
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.
Related Job Titles for this Occupation:
- Typesetter
- Proofer
- Online Content Coordinator
- Desk Editor
- Copy Coordinator
Proofreader or Copy Marker Employment Estimates
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.
Average Proofreaders and Copy Markers Salary
The typical yearly salary for Proofreaders and Copy Markers is somewhere between $23,220 and $63,080.

Proofreaders and Copy Markers who work in Washington, Maryland, or District of Columbia, make the highest salaries.
How much do Proofreaders and Copy Markers make 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 |
What Tools do Proofreaders and Copy Markers Use?
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
Education needed to be a Proofreader or Copy Marker:

How Long Does it Take to Become a Proofreader or Copy Marker?

Where Proofreaders and Copy Markers Work

Below are examples of industries where Proofreaders and Copy Markers work:

References:
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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