What is life as a copy editor in Beijing like?

Posted Aug 29, 2010 4:16pm by chinamac79

Joined: Aug 29th, 2010
Posts: 1

Hello folks -

I am British newspaper reporter with seven years experience, and I'm currently working as a copy editor on an English-language newspaper in Taiwan.

I recently applied for a copy editor job in Beijing, for CCTV. Could anyone tell me what the pros and cons are for this kind of work? What is the work like, what is the pay like? Is Beijing an expensive place to live in? I have lived in China before (back in 2003), so I have a rough idea what to expect.

Any advice you could give would be much appreciated.

Chinamac79

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Count_zero

Joined: Mar 25th, 2006
Posts: 6,411

Re: What is life as a copy editor in Beijing like?

Posted by: Count_zero on Aug 29, 2010 4:33pm

I know someone who worked as a copy editor as CCTV. I could ask her about it, if you would like.

I think the major problem with that job would be if you were conscientious. I mean … CCTV tells big porky pies so would you be happy with that? Also, a state-run Chinese company? That would be pretty chaotic.

It’s probably a great gig for making contacts if you want to do freelance reporting, decent enough pay and, if you’re not a real zealous worker, you could get the work done fairly quickly and easily.

The SCMP pays editors about RMB 20,000 a month but that’s based on Hong Kong living costs. I guess CCTV would pay about 12,000? I daresay you can live in Beijing for about 4,000 a month after rent. Obviously if you have kids, a car or a golddigging girlfriend you’ll need more.

herojuana

Joined: Jun 26th, 2006
Posts: 11,709

Re: What is life as a copy editor in Beijing like?

Posted by: herojuana on Aug 29, 2010 4:44pm

I'm a copy editor for a local rag.

I'm on 15,000 a month after taxes and some perks like a gas card and meal allowance, obviously they take care of the visa and insurance.

Sorry I can't give you the exact details of my job but there are some mentally ill people on this forum that would loooooove to find out where I work.