[Hiring] English Language Copyeditor @Just Right Reader

Role Description

Just Right Reader is seeking an experienced English-language copyeditor. This is a part-time contract position ideal for an experienced copyeditor with a strong command of English grammar, style, and mechanics. You'll work closely with our Product team to review a variety of educational materials and provide high-quality copyedits within tight production timelines.

Turnaround Expectations

• Projects vary in length and complexity, and quick turnaround times are essential.
• Production schedule often requires a quick turnaround (typically 24–48 hours, depending on the project scope).
• Applicants should be comfortable working within these timelines and communicating proactively about their availability to ensure deadlines are met.

Scope of Work

• Copyedit educational materials for grammar, spelling, punctuation, sentence structure, clarity, consistency, and readability.
• Ensure consistency with company style guides and editorial standards (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style).
• Maintain consistency in spelling, capitalization, terminology, formatting, and voice across products.
• Flag inconsistencies, ambiguities, or potential errors while preserving the author's intent.
• Meet fast-paced production schedules and agreed-upon deadlines.
• Collaborate with Product Managers, writers, editors, and designers throughout the publishing process.
• This engagement does not include internal people management, HR responsibilities, or administrative duties.

Materials You May Review

• Children's book manuscripts (Birth through Grade 12)
• Decodable readers
• Lesson plans
• Teacher guides
• Family resources
• Literacy games
• Marketing materials
• Product packaging
• Digital learning resources
• Internal educational documents

Qualifications

• Professional copyediting experience (educational publishing preferred)
• Exceptional knowledge of English grammar, punctuation, spelling, and usage
• Excellent attention to detail
• Experience editing materials for children and educators is highly preferred
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Ability to work independently while meeting tight deadlines
• Proficiency using Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and Adobe Acrobat for reviewing and copyediting documents.

Preferred Experience

• Children's publishing
• Educational publishing
• Science of Reading curriculum
• Teacher resources
• Decodable texts
• Chicago Manual of Style (or similar editorial standards)

Engagement Details

• This role is structured as an independent contractor (1099) engagement.
• Duration - This will be an ongoing agreement that will be evaluated for continuation on a monthly basis per business need.
• The contractor will determine their own work schedule, methods, tools, and approach, subject to agreed-upon milestones and deadlines.
• The contractor may provide services to other clients during the term of this engagement.
• Compensation will be provided on a monthly retainer or project-based basis, as outlined in a separate agreement.
• Services will be performed remotely; occasional in-person collaboration may occur by mutual agreement.

How to Express Interest

• Please submit your resume highlighting relevant copyediting experience.
• A brief summary of your experience editing educational or children's materials.
• Your typical turnaround time for copyediting projects.
• Your preferred rate structure (hourly, per page, or another pricing method) and your rates.
• Applicants selected to move forward in the hiring process may be asked to complete a brief, one-page copyediting exercise.