Copy Editor Resume Example

by
Kayte Grady
Reviewed by
Trish Seidel
Last Updated
July 25, 2025

Copy Editor Resume Example:

Maya Burke
(162) 345-6789
linkedin.com/in/maya-burke
@maya.burke
Copy Editor
Seasoned Copy Editor with over 10 years of expertise in digital content optimization and precision editing. Proficient in SEO strategies and AI-driven content tools, I enhanced editorial accuracy by 30% at my previous role. Specializing in tech and finance, I lead teams to elevate content quality and engagement.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Copy Editor
02/2023 – Present
WordSharp Editing
  • Spearheaded the implementation of an AI-powered content optimization system, resulting in a 40% increase in SEO performance and a 25% reduction in editing time across all digital platforms.
  • Led a team of 12 copy editors in developing a comprehensive style guide for multi-channel content, ensuring brand consistency and reducing client revisions by 60%.
  • Pioneered a data-driven approach to headline creation, leveraging natural language processing tools to improve click-through rates by 35% and increase overall audience engagement by 28%.
Editorial Coordinator
10/2020 – 01/2023
WriteTech Solutions
  • Managed the editorial process for a high-profile rebranding project, coordinating with cross-functional teams to deliver error-free content across 15 product lines, resulting in a 22% increase in brand recognition.
  • Implemented an agile workflow system, reducing turnaround times by 30% and improving team productivity by 25%, while maintaining a 99.9% accuracy rate for all edited materials.
  • Developed and conducted advanced training programs on inclusive language and cultural sensitivity, leading to a 45% decrease in customer complaints related to content appropriateness.
Junior Copy Editor
09/2018 – 09/2020
SonicSpritz Systems
  • Collaborated with UX designers to optimize microcopy for a mobile app, contributing to a 50% increase in user retention and a 4.8-star app store rating.
  • Streamlined the proofreading process by creating a custom set of macros and scripts, reducing editing time by 20% and eliminating recurring errors by 95%.
  • Initiated and managed a peer review system for complex technical documents, improving overall quality and reducing client revision requests by 40%.
SKILLS & COMPETENCIES
  • Retail Brand Voice Development
  • Omnichannel Content Strategy
  • E-commerce Copy Optimization
  • Product Description SEO Strategy
  • Conversion Rate Copy Analysis
  • Customer Journey Content Mapping
  • Performance-Driven A/B Testing
  • Adobe Experience Manager
  • Shopify Plus
  • Google Analytics 4
  • Contentful CMS
  • AI-Assisted Content Optimization
  • Voice Commerce Copy Adaptation
COURSES / CERTIFICATIONS
Certified Professional Editor (CPE)
08/2023
Editors' Association of Canada
Board of Editors in the Life Sciences (BELS) Certification
08/2022
Board of Editors in the Life Sciences
American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA) Certification
08/2021
American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA)
Education
Bachelor of Arts in English
2016 - 2020
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
English Literature
Creative Writing

What makes this Copy Editor resume great

A strong Copy Editor resume demonstrates clear achievements and technical skills. It highlights efficiency improvements, such as cutting editing time by 20%. Leadership in AI-driven content optimization stands out. Digital and SEO expertise are emphasized. Collaboration and training efforts are also showcased. Results are presented clearly. This resume proves measurable impact effectively.

Copy Editor Resume Template

Contact Information
[Full Name]
[email protected] • (XXX) XXX-XXXX • linkedin.com/in/your-name • City, State
Resume Summary
Copy Editor with [X] years of experience refining content across [industry sectors] using [style guides]. Expertise in [types of editing] with a proven track record of improving content quality by [percentage] at [Previous Company]. Skilled in [editing software] and [content management systems], seeking to leverage meticulous editing capabilities and keen eye for detail to elevate editorial standards and ensure consistent, high-quality publications for [Target Company].
Work Experience
Most Recent Position
Job Title • Start Date • End Date
Company Name
  • Led editorial team in revising [type of content, e.g., marketing materials] for [major project/client], resulting in a [percentage] increase in reader engagement and a [percentage] improvement in conversion rates
  • Developed and implemented [specific style guide/editorial process], streamlining workflow and reducing editing time by [percentage] while maintaining [quality metric, e.g., 99.9% accuracy rate]
Previous Position
Job Title • Start Date • End Date
Company Name
  • Managed quality control for [number] monthly publications, ensuring adherence to brand voice and style guidelines, resulting in a [percentage] reduction in reader complaints and a [percentage] increase in subscriber retention
  • Trained and mentored [number] junior editors, implementing a [specific training program/method] that improved team productivity by [percentage] and reduced error rates by [percentage]
Resume Skills
  • Grammar & Syntax Proficiency
  • Attention to Detail & Accuracy
  • [Preferred Style Guide, e.g., AP, Chicago]
  • Content Editing & Proofreading
  • Fact-Checking & Verification
  • [Editing Software, e.g., Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Word]
  • Consistency & Clarity in Writing
  • Time Management & Deadline Adherence
  • [Industry-Specific Content Knowledge, e.g., Legal, Medical]
  • Collaboration & Communication with Writers
  • Adaptability to Different Writing Styles
  • [Specialized Editing Skill, e.g., SEO, Localization]
  • Certifications
    Official Certification Name
    Certification Provider • Start Date • End Date
    Official Certification Name
    Certification Provider • Start Date • End Date
    Education
    Official Degree Name
    University Name
    City, State • Start Date • End Date
    • Major: [Major Name]
    • Minor: [Minor Name]

    So, is your Copy Editor resume strong enough? 🧐

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    Resume writing tips for Copy Editors

    Copy Editor roles require clear communication of your impact and technical proficiency to stand out. Hiring managers expect resumes that quickly demonstrate your editing expertise and the measurable improvements you bring. Focus on clarity, relevance, and evidence of results to advance through the selection process.
    • Use a precise job title that aligns with industry standards to ensure immediate recognition of your Copy Editor role.
    • Craft a compelling summary that highlights your value and encourages hiring managers to continue reading your resume.
    • Emphasize the outcomes of your editing work, showing how your contributions improved content quality or workflow efficiency.
    • Include both your editorial skills and the technical tools you use to demonstrate comprehensive expertise.

    Common Responsibilities Listed on Copy Editor Resumes:

    • Edit and proofread content for accuracy, clarity, and consistency across platforms.
    • Utilize AI tools to enhance editing efficiency and content quality.
    • Collaborate with writers and designers to ensure cohesive storytelling and branding.
    • Implement SEO strategies to optimize content for search engine visibility.
    • Lead style guide updates to reflect current language and industry trends.

    Copy Editor resume headline examples:

    Your role sits close to other departments, so hiring managers need quick clarity on what you actually do. That title field matters more than you think. Hiring managers look for clear, recognizable Copy Editor titles. If you add a headline, focus on searchable keywords that matter.

    Strong Headlines

    Award-Winning Copy Editor: 10+ Years Perfecting Digital Content

    Weak Headlines

    Experienced Copy Editor with Strong Attention to Detail

    Strong Headlines

    SEO-Savvy Copy Editor Specializing in Tech and AI Writing

    Weak Headlines

    Dedicated Professional Seeking Copy Editor Position

    Strong Headlines

    Versatile Copy Editor: Expert in AP, Chicago, and APA Styles

    Weak Headlines

    Copy Editor with Good Grammar and Proofreading Skills
    🌟 Expert Tip
    "You weren’t just fixing grammar; you were making the story better. What was the impact of that?" - Kayte Grady, Senior Lead Copywriter

    Resume Summaries for Copy Editors

    Your resume summary is prime real estate for showing copy editor value quickly. This section determines whether hiring managers continue reading or move to the next candidate. Position yourself strategically by highlighting your most relevant qualifications upfront rather than forcing recruiters to hunt through your entire resume. Most job descriptions require that a copy editor has a certain amount of experience. That means this isn't a detail to bury. You need to make it stand out in your summary. Lead with your years of experience, specify your editing specialties, and quantify achievements when possible. Skip objectives unless you lack relevant experience. Align your summary directly with the specific job requirements.

    Strong Summaries

    • Meticulous Copy Editor with 7+ years of experience in digital publishing. Reduced error rates by 35% and improved content engagement by 28% through implementation of AI-assisted proofreading tools. Expertise in SEO optimization and data-driven content strategy for maximum impact.

    Weak Summaries

    • Experienced Copy Editor with a keen eye for detail. Worked on various projects in different industries, improving the quality of written content. Familiar with standard proofreading marks and grammar rules.

    Strong Summaries

    • Versatile Copy Editor specializing in technical documentation and UX writing. Streamlined style guide creation process, cutting production time by 40%. Proficient in XML editing and content management systems, with a track record of enhancing readability across diverse platforms.

    Weak Summaries

    • Dedicated Copy Editor seeking new opportunities to apply my skills. Strong communication abilities and a passion for language. Comfortable working in fast-paced environments and meeting deadlines.

    Strong Summaries

    • Results-driven Copy Editor with a background in medical publishing. Led a team that increased publication output by 22% while maintaining 99.9% accuracy. Skilled in fact-checking complex scientific content and adapting writing styles for various audience levels.

    Weak Summaries

    • Copy Editor with experience in both print and digital media. Proficient in Microsoft Word and Google Docs. Able to work independently or as part of a team to ensure high-quality content.

    Resume Bullet Examples for Copy Editors

    Strong Bullets

    • Streamlined editorial processes, reducing turnaround time by 30% while maintaining 99.9% accuracy across 500+ documents annually

    Weak Bullets

    • Edited various documents and materials for grammar, spelling, and style

    Strong Bullets

    • Spearheaded implementation of AI-assisted proofreading tools, increasing efficiency by 25% and catching 15% more errors

    Weak Bullets

    • Worked with writers to improve content quality and readability

    Strong Bullets

    • Mentored team of 5 junior editors, resulting in 40% improvement in their error detection rates within 6 months

    Weak Bullets

    • Participated in team meetings to discuss editorial guidelines and best practices

    Bullet Point Assistant

    Use the dropdowns to create the start of an effective bullet that you can edit after.

    The Result

    Select options above to build your bullet phrase...
    🌟 Expert tip
    "Don’t just say you 'edited content.' Did you clean up 80 blog posts? Ship a new story each day? Manage 5 writers? Numbers will help me see what you can handle and if we're alinged." - Kayte Grady, Senior Lead Copywriter

    Essential skills for Copy Editors

    It's tempting to focus only on your editing accomplishments and overlook the technical skills that made them possible. But hiring managers need to see both your expertise and your tools. Most Copy Editor job descriptions list hard skills like CMS platforms and style guides alongside soft skills like attention to detail and collaboration. Your resume should highlight these abilities clearly in your Skills section and work experience.

    Hard Skills

    • Grammar and punctuation
    • Spelling and vocabulary
    • Style and tone consistency
    • Fact-checking and research
    • Proofreading and editing
    • AP Stylebook or other style guide proficiency
    • Copywriting and headline writing
    • Content management systems (CMS)
    • SEO optimization
    • Adobe InDesign or other desktop publishing software
    • Microsoft Word or other word processing software
    • Time management and organization

    Soft Skills

    • Attention to detail
    • Grammar and punctuation skills
    • Proofreading and editing abilities
    • Time management and meeting deadlines
    • Strong written and verbal communication
    • Adaptability and flexibility
    • Critical thinking and problem-solving
    • Research and fact-checking skills
    • Collaboration and teamwork
    • Organizational skills
    • Creativity and innovation
    • Ability to work under pressure

    Resume Action Verbs for Copy Editors:

    • Proofread
    • Edit
    • Revise
    • Fact-check
    • Collaborate
    • Adapt
    • Rewrite
    • Polish
    • Verify
    • Streamline
    • Enhance
    • Refine
    • Clarify
    • Condense
    • Rectify
    • Standardize
    • Tailor
    • Validate

    Tailor Your Copy Editor Resume to a Job Description:

    Highlight Relevant Editing Tools and Software

    Carefully examine the job description for specific editing tools and software mentioned. Ensure your resume prominently features your proficiency with these tools in your summary and work experience sections. If you have experience with similar software, emphasize your transferable skills while clearly stating your specific expertise.

    Showcase Your Adaptability to Different Content Types

    Understand the types of content the company produces and tailor your resume to highlight your experience with similar content. Whether it's web content, print media, or technical documents, ensure your work experience reflects your ability to adapt your editing skills to meet their needs. Use examples that demonstrate your versatility and impact on content quality.

    Emphasize Industry-Specific Knowledge

    Identify any industry-specific requirements or preferences in the job posting and adjust your resume to reflect your understanding of these areas. Highlight any relevant industry experience and showcase your familiarity with sector-specific terminology and style guides. This will demonstrate your ability to seamlessly integrate into their editorial team.

    ChatGPT Resume Prompts for Copy Editors

    Writing a Copy Editor resume with ChatGPT is a smart way to handle the growing demands of the role. As tools and expectations evolve, capturing your editing impact becomes more complex. AI tools like Teal help turn your real-world work into clear, results-driven resume content. Ready to sharpen your resume? Try these prompts.

    Copy Editor Prompts for Resume Summaries

    1. Create a concise summary for me that highlights my expertise in editing, attention to detail, and ability to improve content quality using [specific tools or software].
    2. Write a professional resume summary emphasizing my experience managing editorial workflows and collaborating with writers to meet tight deadlines.
    3. Generate a summary that showcases my skills in fact-checking, style consistency, and enhancing readability to boost audience engagement.

    Copy Editor Prompts for Resume Bullets

    1. Write three achievement-focused bullet points demonstrating how I improved content accuracy by [percentage] and reduced errors using [editing software].
    2. Generate measurable bullets that describe how I streamlined the editorial process, cutting turnaround time by [number] days while maintaining quality standards.
    3. Create bullets that highlight my role in mentoring junior editors and increasing team productivity by [metric or outcome].

    Copy Editor Prompts for Resume Skills

    1. List key skills for my resume that reflect proficiency in editing tools like [tool names], attention to detail, and style guide expertise.
    2. Suggest a skills section that balances technical editing abilities with soft skills such as communication and collaboration.
    3. Help me organize a skills list that highlights my experience with content management systems, fact-checking, and deadline management.

    Resume FAQs for Copy Editors:

    How long should I make my Copy Editor resume?

    A Copy Editor resume should ideally be one page, especially if you have less than 10 years of experience. This length ensures clarity and conciseness, which are crucial in editing roles. Use bullet points to highlight key achievements and skills, and tailor your content to the job description. Focus on quantifiable results, such as error reduction rates or successful projects, to make the most of the limited space.

    What is the best way to format my Copy Editor resume?

    A hybrid resume format is best for Copy Editors, combining chronological and functional elements. This format highlights both your work history and relevant skills, crucial for showcasing editing expertise and career progression. Key sections should include a summary, skills, experience, and education. Use consistent fonts and clear headings to enhance readability, and ensure your contact information is prominently displayed.

    What certifications should I include on my Copy Editor resume?

    Relevant certifications for Copy Editors include the Poynter ACES Certificate in Editing, the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) courses, and the Certified Professional in Editing (CPE). These certifications demonstrate a commitment to industry standards and continuous learning. Present certifications in a dedicated section, listing the certification name, issuing organization, and date obtained. This highlights your qualifications and dedication to professional development.

    What are the most common mistakes to avoid on a Copy Editor resume?

    Common mistakes on Copy Editor resumes include overloading with irrelevant details, neglecting to showcase editing achievements, and poor formatting. Avoid these by tailoring your resume to the job, emphasizing accomplishments like improved content accuracy, and maintaining a clean, professional layout. Always proofread meticulously to ensure there are no errors, as attention to detail is paramount in this role.

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