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Book Publisher Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TASCHEN

In-House Sales Representative

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$50K - $57K/yr

About usTASCHEN is the world's leading art-book publisher, headquartered in Cologne with teams in Berlin, Brussels, Hong Kong, London, Los Angeles, Madrid, Miami, Milan, New York, Paris and Tokyo.

Paramount

Designer, Publishing

Los Angeles, CA

$65K - $100K/yr

Paramount Global Publishing is seeking a talented and highly collaborative Designer to join our ... Robust portfolio demonstrating excellence in book cover design, interior design (1-color and 4 ...

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Book Publisher information

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$8

$33

$77

How much do book publisher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for book publisher in California is $33.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $43.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a book publisher get paid?

Book publishers' salaries vary widely depending on experience, location, and company size. Entry-level positions typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, while experienced publishers can earn over $70,000 or more. Many publishers also receive bonuses or profit-sharing based on book sales and company performance.

What Do Book Publishers Do?

Book publishers oversee all aspects of the book production process for a publishing firm or an independent book publisher. In this career, you select authors and commission books and ebooks, and negotiate contracts with the authors, and track the writing process so that the author meets publishing deadline. Other responsibilities include working with editors and the marketing team to prepare the book for publication and ensure sales. You may also liaise with copyright lawyers and work with graphic designers, printers, and others to ensure each phase is completed properly throughout the publishing process.

What qualifications do you need to be a book publisher?

To become a book publisher, a bachelor's degree in publishing, English, journalism, or a related field is often preferred. Strong communication, editing, and project management skills are essential, along with knowledge of the publishing industry and familiarity with publishing software. Experience in editing, writing, or marketing can also be beneficial.

How can I become a book publisher?

To become a book publisher, you typically need a bachelor's degree in publishing, journalism, or a related field, along with experience in editing, marketing, or editing. Developing strong organizational, communication, and industry knowledge skills is essential, and gaining experience through internships or entry-level roles can help you advance in the publishing industry.

What are some common challenges book publishers face when managing multiple titles at different stages of production?

Book publishers often juggle several titles simultaneously, each at a different stage—from acquisition and editing to design, marketing, and distribution. Coordinating these processes requires strong organizational and project management skills, as unexpected delays can impact release schedules. Publishers must also communicate effectively with authors, editors, designers, and vendors to ensure each title receives adequate attention and meets quality standards. Balancing creative vision with commercial viability and keeping up with market trends are additional ongoing challenges in this dynamic environment.

What does a book publisher do?

A book publisher is responsible for overseeing the process of turning a manuscript into a published book. This includes tasks such as selecting and acquiring manuscripts, editing and designing the book, managing production, and distributing the final product to retailers or directly to readers. Publishers also handle marketing and promotion to help books reach their target audience. They play a critical role in shaping the success of authors and ensuring high-quality content reaches the public.

What is the average salary of a book publisher?

The average salary of a book publisher varies depending on experience, location, and company size, but typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually. Entry-level publishers may earn less, while experienced professionals or those in managerial roles can earn higher salaries. Skills in editing, marketing, and project management are often important in this field.

What is the difference between Book Publisher vs Book Editor?

AspectBook PublisherBook Editor
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in publishing, literature, or related field; experience in publishing industryUsually a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or related field; strong editing and communication skills
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, publishing houses, or digital platformsOffice environment, publishing houses, or remote editing roles
Employer & Industry UsagePublishing companies, literary agencies, digital publishersPublishing houses, magazines, literary agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in publishing industry, career optionsLearning about editing roles, career paths in publishing

Book publishers oversee the entire process of bringing a book to market, including acquisition, production, and distribution. Book editors focus on refining and improving the manuscript, working closely with authors. While both roles are integral to publishing, publishers manage the overall business, whereas editors concentrate on content quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Book Publisher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Book Publisher, you need a strong background in literature, editing, and business management, often supported by a degree in English, communications, or publishing. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, manuscript management systems, and digital publishing platforms is typical. Strong negotiation, project management, and interpersonal communication skills help you build author relationships and manage complex production timelines. These skills ensure the successful acquisition, production, and marketing of books in a competitive publishing landscape.
More about Book Publisher jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Book Publisher jobs in California? The most popular types of Book Publisher jobs in California are:
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What job categories do people searching Book Publisher jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Book Publisher jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Book Publisher jobs? Cities in California with the most Book Publisher job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Book Publisher jobs in CA? For Book Publisher jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Book Publisher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Book Publisher job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,882 per year, or $33.6 per hour.

Publishing Manager (Books)

Absurd Ventures

Santa Monica, CA

$80K - $105K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Publishing Manager to help build and lead the overall strategy and performance of our books publishing imprint, Absurd Ventures Press. In conjunction with an external team of publishing domain experts, this role helps oversee the imprint with direct responsibility for revenue growth, profitability, and the long-term success of the publishing program. The Publishing Manager drives both creative and financial success ensuring that production, design, marketing, and managing editorial teams work effectively toward shared goals. The role requires a blend of strategic vision, commercial acumen, and creative leadership to shape the list's direction. 
 

Core Responsibilities: 

  • Help develop imprint strategy, ensuring year-over-year growth in topline revenue and profitability. 
  • Work with our publishing partners to oversee the critical path for the imprint program. This includes providing oversight to internal and external teams in Editorial, Managing Editorial, Production, and Art, ensuring alignment, efficiency, and financial discipline. 
  • Collaborate with sales, marketing, publicity, subrights, and distribution to deliver profitable titles to market while maintaining strong margins. 
  • In conjunction with external publishing partners and the Absurd finance team, help manage financial goals of the program, including budgeting, P&L evaluation, and overall profitability. 
  • Represent the publishing program internally and externally, cultivating strong relationships with authors, agents, and industry partners. 
  • Manage all stages of each title's print/digital lifecycle, including review of all passes; coordination with production, design, and freelancers; drafting of copy and metadata; and maintenance of reprints/backlist. 
  • Work with our external publishing partners to develop relationships with literary agents, authors, illustrators, and other partners. 
  • Attend conferences and trade shows as needed and lead internal/external presentations.  

Core Qualifications: 

  • 5 to 8 years of publishing experience, including progressive leadership responsibility within a publishing house 
  • Proven track record of driving revenue growth and profitability 
  • Deep understanding of the book publishing market and strong editorial judgment 
  • Highly connected network of contacts in publishing ecosystem (agents, retail, media, influencer networks, etc.)  
  • Experience working with stakeholders across internal teams and managing external partnerships 
  • Demonstrated success in acquisitions and author/agent relations 
  • Strong financial and strategic planning skills 
  • Excellent communication, collaboration, and leadership abilities 
  • A taste for the absurd 

 
The base pay range for this position is $80,000 to $105,000 per year. Actual compensation is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. We also offer a competitive package of benefits including vacation time, sick time, company holidays, parental leave, medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and 401(k) matching to regular full-time employees. Certain roles may also be eligible for bonus and equity. 
 

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