Looking for a way to earn money with a flexible schedule? Becoming a proofreader might be the perfect fit! With minimal barriers to entry, you can start without a degree—just a keen eye for grammar and punctuation.
Work from anywhere, set your own hours, and specialize in law or medicine to boost your earnings.
Choose between freelancing, finding gigs on job boards, or securing an in-house position with a steady salary.
In this article, we will explore 14 proofreading jobs that are sure to make you money.
- Best Pick: 15 Delivery App Jobs That Pay Up to $25/Hour
What is Proofreading?
Proofreading is when you carefully check a written text for mistakes in spelling, punctuation, grammar, consistency, and formatting. People with good proofreading skills can find and fix these errors easily.
This is the final step in writing and is very important. Because proofreading is essential for all important writing, there are many job opportunities.
You can proofread things like admissions essays, academic papers, résumés, business documents, and emails.
What is the difference between proofreading and Editing?
Proofreading and editing are both essential stages in the process of refining written content, but they serve distinct purposes and involve different levels of scrutiny.
Proofreading primarily focuses on correcting surface errors in a text, such as grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting. It ensures that the document is free from minor mistakes and inconsistencies.
Proofreaders review the final draft of a document to catch any errors that may have been overlooked in earlier stages of editing.
Editing, on the other hand, involves a more comprehensive review of the content. Editors focus not only on correcting errors in grammar and style but also on improving the overall clarity, coherence, structure, and flow of the text.
They may suggest revisions, reorganize sentences or paragraphs, and ensure that the document effectively communicates its intended message to the audience. Editing aims to enhance the quality and readability of the content.
In summary, while proofreading addresses surface-level errors to ensure correctness, editing involves a deeper analysis and improvement of the content’s structure, clarity, and coherence to enhance its overall quality and effectiveness.
Both processes are crucial for producing polished and professional written material.
EditFast
Edit Fast is an online platform made for freelance proofreaders and editors seeking job opportunities.
It offers a straightforward application process: applicants register online, upload their résumé, complete an editing test, and sign a non-disclosure agreement to build their profile.
Once approved, freelancers can browse job listings, communicate with clients exclusively through the Edit Fast portal, and receive payments via PayPal.
However, Edit Fast deducts 40% from the earnings, making it more suitable for those looking to gain experience rather than maximizing income.
Requirements include a college degree and previous editing experience, with proofreaders classified as independent contractors.
Average salary: On Edit Fast, freelancers can earn varying amounts depending on the project complexity and rates negotiated, typically ranging from $0.02 to $0.10 per word.
However, Edit Fast deducts a high commission of 40% from earnings, impacting potential income significantly.
Gramlee
Gramlee stands out as a specialized editing and proofreading company catering to a wide range of writing projects, including dissertations, essays, novels, and white papers.
Proofreaders have to undergo a thorough application process that includes a background check and assessment.
While editors are expected to turn around documents within 24 hours during weekdays, they enjoy the flexibility to set their own hours.
Gramlee offers enticing opportunities for remote proofreading jobs, particularly appealing for those starting out in the field.
Average salary: Gramlee offers remote proofreading jobs with rates set at $0.03 per word, up to 3,000 words ($90 maximum per order). Senior editors may access higher-paying projects beyond this limit.
Polished Paper
Polished Paper is a reputable proofreading and editing company known for its high standards and commitment to quality. They seek experienced editors and pay accordingly.
The application process is painstaking and the candidates must register, upload a résumé, and complete a challenging 35-question test, followed by an interview.
Passing the test is essential but not easy. For proofreaders willing to invest time in the application process, Polished Paper offers rewarding opportunities as a freelance proofreader.
It’s a recommended platform for those with some experience looking to advance in the field of editing and proofreading.
Average salary: Polished Paper compensates proofreaders and editors according to their experience and the complexity of the projects.
Upwork
Upwork is a popular online platform that connects freelancers with clients seeking various services, including proofreading and editing.
It offers a wide range of opportunities for freelance proofreaders to find work across different industries and sectors.
To get started, freelancers create a profile highlighting their skills, experience, and rates. Clients post job listings, and freelancers can bid on projects that match their expertise.
Upwork provides a convenient interface for communication and project management, ensuring smooth collaboration between freelancers and clients.
It’s an ideal platform for proofreaders looking to build a diverse portfolio, gain experience, and establish long-term client relationships in the freelance marketplace.
Average salary: Proofreaders on Upwork typically charge between $15 to $50 per hour. Rates can go higher for specialized or technical content.
Proofreading Pal
Proofreading Pal is an excellent option for students seeking proofreading jobs, geared towards college and university students.
They prioritize candidates who are current graduate students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher, or those with a graduate degree and at least 5 years of editing experience.
While their qualifications are strict, Proofreading Pal presents a valuable opportunity for students who meet their criteria.
Applicants can apply online by submitting a resume and cover letter and may proceed to a timed proofreading exam as part of the hiring process.
Average salary: Proofreading Pal advertises potential earnings ranging from $500 to $3,000 per month. This can vary based on the number of projects completed and the time invested.
Randstad
Randstad is a US-based staffing agency offering opportunities to find remote roles in temporary, contract, temporary-to-permanent, and permanent positions.
Whether you’re looking for proofreader, proofreading, editing, copy editor, or editor positions, Randstad covers a wide range of job types.
Requirements and responsibilities can vary significantly across different clients and roles.
To streamline your job search, consider signing up for email notifications tailored to your specific job interests.
Average salary: Earnings at Randstad can vary widely depending on the type of position, your experience, and the client’s requirements.
Proofreading Services
Proofreading Services offers excellent remote opportunities for both part-time and full-time proofreading jobs. The hours are entirely flexible, allowing you to work as much or as little as you prefer.
Proofreading Services provide an option for earning extra income from home or while living a location-independent lifestyle.
The top-tier proofreading jobs within this income range are particularly attractive, offering substantial hourly rates.
Contractors applying to ProofreadingServices.com undergo a 20-minute testing process to demonstrate their proofreading skills.
This company enables you to create your own schedule and work either full-time or part-time hours, catering to diverse global clients.
Average salary: The average pay at ProofreadingServices.com ranges between $19 to $46 per hour.
FlexJobs
FlexJobs is a prominent online platform akin to Upwork, specializing in listing job opportunities for freelancers ranging from entry-level to experienced professionals.
Unlike Upwork, FlexJobs requires a membership fee of $5.95 per month, which can reduce competition for jobs while still offering ample opportunities to market your editing and proofreading services.
FlexJobs boasts a user-friendly interface, and extensive support, and ensures that only legitimate proofreading jobs are featured, guaranteeing quality listings.
Whether you’re searching for new remote proofreading jobs or clients, FlexJobs provides a reliable resource. Sign up risk-free and get started with a discounted trial offer of 2 weeks for just $2.95.
Average salary: FlexJobs lists proofreading jobs with varying income potential, typically ranging from hourly rates to project-based fees depending on the client and job specifics.
Fiverr
Fiverr is an online job portal similar to Upwork and FlexJobs, offering a wide array of freelance opportunities including beginner-proofreading jobs and various other freelance gigs.
However, like Upwork, Fiverr is known for hosting many low-paying jobs, with services starting as low as $5.
Despite the lower starting rates, Fiverr provides a valuable platform for gaining entry-level proofreading experience.
As you gain experience, you can transition to higher-paying platforms and increase your service fees.
Fiverr operates as a freelance marketplace where freelancers showcase their services and clients hire them for specific projects.
While joining Fiverr is free, the platform retains 20% of the total price of your services.
Average salary: On Fiverr, income for proofreading jobs can vary widely depending on the freelancer’s experience, reputation, and the complexity of the tasks.
Scribendi
Scribendi is a Canadian company specializing in proofreading and editing services, offering remote positions worldwide.
They ensure reliable payments in USD through PayPal and provide flexibility in project selection, requiring only one completed project every three months to keep your account active.
For qualifications, Scribendi seeks native English speakers with a university degree and a minimum of three years of experience in editing, writing, or English language teaching.
Prospective editors must demonstrate a minimum proofreading speed of 1,000 words per hour.
They offer additional support through editing and proofreading courses and provide a forum for discussions among proofreaders.
While Scribendi has stringent requirements, they offer some of the best online proofreading jobs available.
Average salary: At Scribendi, proofreaders can earn between $22 to $27 per hour.
Scribbr
Scribbr focuses on editing and proofreading academic papers like theses and dissertations. It’s good for both new and experienced proofreaders.
Their application process is thorough and includes a language quiz, sending a resume and statement about why you want the job, a language editing assignment, and completing the Scribbr Academy training.
Scribbr hires editors who speak different languages from all over the world. Editors usually handle about 1,700 words an hour. You need to apply and pass a language quiz online to be considered.
To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree and experience editing academic papers. Editors work as independent contractors.
Average salary: Once accepted, you can earn about $22-$27 per hour.
Wordvice
Wordvice is an editing and proofreading company that focuses on academic and professional documents. They offer flexible, remote positions for proofreaders with strong language skills.
To work with Wordvice, you need to complete an application and pass a proofreading test. They prefer candidates with advanced degrees and relevant editing experience.
Proofreaders at Wordvice handle various documents, including research papers, admissions essays, and business reports.
The company provides consistent work and pays competitive rates based on the type and complexity of the document.
Average salary: The average per-hour salary on Wordvice ranges from $15 to $30.
Kibin
Kibin specializes in providing proofreading and editing services, specifically tailored for academic documents like essays and research papers.
It offers a flexible work-from-home opportunity where proofreaders can set their own schedules.
This platform is particularly suitable for individuals with a solid background in academic writing, offering them the chance to apply their skills remotely.
To join Kibin as a proofreader, applicants must go through a structured application process that includes submitting an application, passing a proofreading test, and completing a trial period to demonstrate their proficiency.
The company values a strong command of English grammar and style, as well as relevant experience in proofreading or editing.
Payment rates are competitive and vary based on the length and complexity of the documents being edited.
Overall, Kibin provides a supportive environment for remote proofreaders seeking flexibility and competitive pay in the academic editing industry.
Average salary: While specific hourly rates aren’t disclosed, they offer compensation that reflects industry standards for editing and proofreading academic papers.
Robert Half
Robert Half is a prominent US-based staffing agency known for hiring individuals for permanent, contract, and temporary positions, both onsite and remote.
They cover a wide range of job sectors, making it beneficial to use multiple keywords such as “proofreader,” “proofreading,” “editor,” and “editing” when searching for relevant roles.
It’s essential to thoroughly explore all job listings that appear in your search results.
Often, positions in areas like writing, content coordination, project assistance, or marketing may include proofreading responsibilities alongside other tasks.
Robert Half offers flexibility with opportunities available for both remote work and onsite positions, depending on client requirements and job specifics.
By utilizing Robert Half’s extensive job listings and employing a comprehensive search approach, you can effectively discover proofreading jobs that align with your skills and career preferences.
Average salary: At Robert Half, the income for proofreaders can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of role (permanent, temporary, remote), location, and experience level.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pursuing a career as a proofreader offers a flexible and rewarding path for those with a keen eye for detail and a passion for language.
Whether you’re starting out or looking to advance in the field, there are numerous avenues to explore—from freelance platforms like Fiverr and Upwork to specialized companies like Scribendi and Wordvice, each offering unique opportunities and income potential.
With the ability to work remotely and set your own hours, proofreading allows for a balanced lifestyle while contributing to the clarity and professionalism of written content across various industries.
Whether you’re proofreading academic papers, business documents, or creative writing, the demand for skilled proofreaders ensures a steady stream of job opportunities in today’s digital landscape.
