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Audio Book Reader Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... one book or masterclass we have all read or watched together. Monthly video team meetings - We meet as a team once a month to celebrate each member's personal and professional successes and ...

We have columns set up for each stage to be accomplished * video and audio editor * writer * editor ... to discuss one book or masterclass we have all read or watched together. Monthly video team ...

Audio Book Reader information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$20

$33

How much do audio book reader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for audio book reader in Chicago, IL is $20.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $21.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an audio book reader?

An Audio Book Reader, or narrator, is responsible for reading and recording audiobooks for listeners. They use vocal techniques to bring stories to life, ensuring clarity, proper pacing, and emotional expression. Narrators often work in studios or home setups and may need to edit or re-record sections for quality. Strong reading skills, voice control, and sometimes acting experience are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an audio book reader?

To thrive as an Audio Book Reader, you need strong vocal clarity, articulation, expressive storytelling ability, and often prior acting or voiceover experience. Familiarity with audio recording software, studio equipment, and sometimes home recording setups is important, as is knowledge of editing basics. Exceptional attention to detail, strong reading comprehension, adaptability, and time management are key soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills ensure that audio book recordings are engaging, error-free, and delivered efficiently to meet professional standards.

What are the typical challenges faced by audio book readers during a recording project?

Audio Book Readers often encounter challenges such as maintaining vocal consistency, energy, and clear diction over lengthy recording sessions. They may need to effectively differentiate multiple characters using subtle vocal changes and navigate complex narratives or technical materials. Additionally, working under tight deadlines and performing retakes due to minor errors can require patience and stamina. Many readers collaborate closely with producers, directors, or authors to ensure the final product aligns with the creative vision. Successfully managing these demands leads to professional-sounding audiobooks and repeat opportunities.

How do you become an audio book reader with no experience?

To become an audiobook reader with no experience, start by practicing reading aloud and recording yourself to improve your voice and clarity. Building a portfolio of sample recordings and gaining familiarity with audio editing tools can help you attract clients or audition for voice-over roles, often through freelance platforms or audition websites.

How do you get hired to read audio books?

To get hired as an audiobook reader, you typically need a clear, expressive voice and good reading skills. Many opportunities are found through auditioning for production companies, building a demo reel, and having a professional recording setup; some roles also require acting ability or experience in voice work.

How much can you get paid to read audio books?

Audio book readers typically earn between $50 and $200 per finished hour of recording, depending on experience, the project's complexity, and the publisher. Rates can vary widely, with some freelancers earning more based on their reputation and the length of the project. Payment may also include royalties or advances for certain audiobook deals.

What do audiobook readers get paid?

Audiobook readers typically earn between $50 and $200 per finished hour of recording, depending on experience, the project, and the publisher. Rates can vary widely, with some freelance narrators earning more through direct contracts or royalties, especially for popular titles. Payment may also include advances or royalties if the publisher offers them.

What are the most commonly searched types of Audio Book Reader jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Audio Book Reader jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Audio Book Reader jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Audio Book Reader jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Audio Book Reader jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Audio Book Reader jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Audio Book Reader job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,315 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Administrative Assistant (Audio Book Production)

Carol Stream, IL • On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description:

For more than 60 years, Tyndale has helped readers discover the life-giving truths of God's Word. Today we're one of the largest independently owned Christian publishers in the world. Though our business has grown, our mission remains the same: to open God's Word to as many as possible in language they can relate to and understand.


Digital Sales and Production is a small, tight-knit team that brings Tyndale's eBooks and audiobooks to the readers and listeners who find us online. We span both sides of the business — sales and production — which means you'll work alongside people with different strengths, different vantage points, and a shared commitment to getting it right. We're collaborative by design: we share the work, share the credit, and genuinely enjoy building something together. Our audiobook program is still young, and there's real satisfaction in helping shape how it runs.


This is the role that keeps our audio and digital titles moving. You'll take ownership of the production database that tracks every audiobook in progress — manuscript due dates, narrators, release dates — and become the person the rest of the company comes to for a straight answer on where a project stands. Alongside that, you'll support the team across the wider digital business, from eBook pricing to seasonal sales planning. It's a detail-driven support role with visibility across publishing, sales, and production, and a strong starting point for someone building a career in publishing.


What You'll Do

  • Own the audio production database: Take over and maintain the master tracking system for every audiobook in production (currently Asana, alongside Excel), keeping manuscript deadlines, narrator assignments, and release dates accurate so the whole team works from one reliable source of truth.
  • Connect the teams: Serve as the day-to-day link between our team and Tyndale's publishing and product groups, gathering the details, deadlines, and files that keep audio and eBook projects on schedule — primarily by email, with regular Zoom and in-person touchpoints.
  • Keep recordings on schedule: Procure manuscript PDFs and any supplemental files needed for recording sessions, and build the seasonal audio spreadsheet ahead of each new product presentation so nothing gets confirmed at the last minute.
  • Support eBook pricing and promotions: Set up promotions in our internal publishing system, verify promotional pricing at digital retailers, and track repricing data and pricing projects in Excel so every title reaches readers at the right price at the right moment.
  • Support the sales side of the business: Help the team plan and coordinate frontlist priorities, backlist promotions, and seasonal and channel opportunities; participate in select sales presentations to digital accounts; and pitch in on special projects across the team as they come up.
  • Strengthen how we work: Keep title metadata clean, document processes as they take shape, and flag bottlenecks you spot — helping a newer, fast-changing part of the business get sharper over time.

Skills and Qualifications Needed

  • Bachelor's degree in business, communications, publishing, or a related field
  • Solid working knowledge of Excel — comfortable maintaining detailed spreadsheets and using functions like VLOOKUP, or eager to learn them quickly — plus proficiency across the Microsoft Office Suite
  • Experience with project management or CRM software (Asana, Monday.com, HubSpot, or similar) is a plus
  • Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities and meet deadlines
  • Clear, professional communicator who can adapt to different working and communication styles across teams
  • Flexible and comfortable learning as you go — this is a newer role in a newer part of the business, and priorities will evolve
  • Genuine interest in audiobooks, eBooks, or digital publishing is a plus
  • Personal alignment with and adherence to the Bible as God's Word, and agreement with our Statement of Faith

We want to hear more about you and why you are interested in Tyndale and this role, so we highly recommend including a cover letter.


Tyndale has been repeatedly certified as a Best Christian Workplace. Learn more about us and what we believe at www.tyndale.com/our-mission.


The hiring range for this position is $21 to $25 hourly. Actual offers will take into consideration the candidate’s education, experience, industry knowledge, technical skills, and other relevant factors. A summary of Tyndale’s comprehensive benefits is: https://www.tyndale.com/careers/.

Requirements: