Editorial Assistant

We are seeking a dynamic and imaginative Editorial Assistant to support an Executive Editor and Senior Editor on the Sourcebooks Kids team. Our ideal candidate loves and is knowledgeable about children’s books (especially the current market), has superior interpersonal and written communication skills, and a desire to learn both the art of book making and the business of book publishing. We are especially looking for someone who has a passion for picture books, though this role will also assist on a select list of middle grade and YA fiction as well. You’ll be part of a dynamic, innovative team that will draw upon your organizational skills, attention to detail, ability to analyze data, creative thinking, and eye for storytelling.

This position allows for a hybrid work schedule at our offices in Naperville, IL or New York, NY.  There may be the opportunity to work 100% remotely from the following states: Illinois, Arizona, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin

This is an hourly, non-exempt position with a salary range for this role is $21.74 - $24.00/hourly for the Chicagoland area.  We determine starting pay based on a thorough evaluation of job-related factors, including geographic location, market conditions, relevant experience, training, and education. This process ensures a fair and competitive salary that aligns with both the company and the candidate’s qualifications. 

What you’ll do:

• Provide editorial support including reading and evaluating manuscripts both on submission and under contract. 
• Assist with preparation of acquisitions materials, including sales and competitive title research, acquisitions memos, and drafting contract paperwork.
• Work closely with design, managing editorial, marketing, production teams to ensure the smooth execution of book projects from concept to publication.
• Draft book copy, including title sheets, flap description, selling copy, catalog copy, and selling points. Conduct positioning research and handle reprint corrections.
• Provide administrative support including scheduling meetings, processing expense reports, payments, and invoices. 
• Maintain pipeline grids and upcoming deadlines.
• Update author files, handle paperwork for and track book contracts, order contract copies, and updates online metadata fields (descriptions, bios, reviews, etc.) for current, forthcoming, and backlist titles.
• Create positive and collaborative relationships with internal teams as well as authors, illustrators, and other external partners.

What you bring:

• A college degree and/or equivalent work or internship experience.  
• A passion for children’s books, knowledge of the marketplace, and keen interest in learning about the business of publishing. 
• Have an entrepreneurial spirit, ready to jump in to help across departments.  
• Possess an eye for digital marketing trends and social media savvy. 
• Proven ability to set priorities under pressure and multi-task; must be highly organized, flexible, patient, and detail oriented. 
• Must be an efficient, self-motivated, proactive problem-solver with excellent oral and written communication skills. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Excel, and PowerPoint. Airtable, Canva, Illustrator, InDesign, or Procreate a plus but not necessary. 

Why Sourcebooks?

As Newsweek’s #2 Most Loved Workplace in 2024 and a recognized leader in innovation by Fast Company (2024 Most Innovative Companies, 2023 Best Workplaces for Innovators), we use a mission-driven, data-centered approach to drive success for our authors and their books. We’re a thriving entrepreneurial company that creates books that transcend categories and defy odds, and we’ve been honored with hundreds of national bestsellers and awards. We are passionate book lovers dedicated to connecting books to readers in innovative ways. Story by story, book by book, we have changed more than 300 million lives.  Join us as we change 300 million more!

Ready to Apply?

Please submit your resume, salary requirements and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in this role. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered. Show us your passion and creativity — we’re looking for someone who’s as enthusiastic about this opportunity as we are! 
Full-time employees are eligible for our comprehensive benefits program. Our range of benefits include, but are not limited to, Medical/Prescription drug insurance, Dental, Vision, Health Care, Dependent Care, Flexible Spending Account, Health Savings Account 401(k), Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance, Life/AD&D Insurance, & generous paid time off. 
 
Sourcebooks values the array of talents and perspectives that a diverse workforce brings. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status.