English Language Copyeditor (Part Time, Independent Contractor)

Just Right Reader is a literacy publisher dedicated to helping children become confident, successful readers through engaging, research-based resources grounded in the Science of Reading. Our growing product line includes decodable and knowledge-building books, classroom resources, teacher guides, lesson plans, literacy games, family resources, and marketing materials designed for students from Birth through Grade 12.

About the role

Just Right Reader is seeking an experienced English-language copyeditor for a part-time contract position. This role is 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.

Projects vary in length and complexity, and quick turnaround times are essential. Our 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.

Responsibilities

• 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

Requirements

• 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: Ongoing agreement evaluated monthly based on 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.