What Do Proofreader or Copy Marker Do?
Job 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
- Write original content such as headlines, cutlines, captions, and cover copy.
- Read proof sheets aloud, calling out punctuation marks and spelling unusual words and proper names.
- Read corrected copies or proofs to ensure that all corrections have been made.
- 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.
- Consult reference books or secure aid of readers to check references with rules of grammar and composition.
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Things a Proofreader or Copy Marker Should Know How to Do
When polled, Proofreaders and Copy Markers say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
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 Jobs
- Copyman
- Proofreader
- Typesetter
- Copy Reader
- Format Proofreader
Job Outlook for Proofreaders and Copy Markers
In the United States, there were 14,200 jobs for Proofreader or Copy Marker in 2016. 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.

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 salary for Proofreaders and Copy Markers ranges between about $23,220 and $63,080 a year.

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 each U.S. state?
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 & Technology 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
How to Become a Proofreader or Copy Marker
Education needed to be a Proofreader or Copy Marker:

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

Where do Proofreaders and Copy Markers Work?

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

References:
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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