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What is a Proofreader or Copy Marker?

Career Description Read transcript or proof type setup to detect and mark for correction any grammatical, typographical, or compositional errors. Includes proofreaders of Braille.

List of Proofreader or Copy Marker Job Duties

  • Mark copy to indicate and correct errors in type, arrangement, grammar, punctuation, or spelling, using standard printers' marks.
  • Archive documents, conduct research, and read copy, using the internet and various computer programs.
  • Write original content such as headlines, cutlines, captions, and cover copy.
  • Consult reference books or secure aid of readers to check references with rules of grammar and composition.
  • 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.
  • Route proofs with marked corrections to authors, editors, typists, or typesetters for correction or reprinting.

Things a Proofreader or Copy Marker Should Know How to Do

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.

Types of Proofreader or Copy Marker

  • Data Examination Clerk
  • Copy Holder
  • Copyman
  • Clerical Proofreader
  • Proofreader

Proofreader or Copy Marker Employment Estimates

There were about 14,200 jobs for Proofreader or Copy Marker in 2016 (in the United States). 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. The BLS estimates 2,200 yearly job openings in this field.

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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.

Proofreader or Copy Marker Average Salary

The average yearly salary of a Proofreader or Copy Marker ranges between $23,220 and $63,080.

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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

Learn what Proofreader or Copy Marker education requirements there are.

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What work experience do I need to become a Proofreader or Copy Marker?

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Where Proofreaders and Copy Markers Are Employed

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The table below shows the approximate number of Proofreaders and Copy Markers employed by various industries.

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References:

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More about our data sources and methodologies.

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