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Books Editor Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Books Editor information

What does a books editor do?

A Books Editor is responsible for reviewing, selecting, and refining manuscripts for publication. They work closely with authors to improve the content, structure, and style of a book, ensuring it meets the publisher's standards and appeals to the target audience. Books Editors also coordinate with other publishing professionals, such as proofreaders, designers, and marketing teams, to guide a book through the entire publishing process. Their role is crucial in shaping the final version of a manuscript before it goes to print.

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

To excel as a Books Editor, you need a strong command of language, editorial judgment, and a background in literature, journalism, or publishing—often with a relevant degree. Familiarity with editing software like Adobe InCopy, Microsoft Word, and content management systems is typically required. Outstanding communication, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with authors and other stakeholders distinguish top editors. These skills ensure manuscripts are polished, cohesive, and meet both publisher standards and reader expectations.

How does a books editor typically collaborate with authors and other editorial staff throughout the publishing process?

Books Editors work closely with authors to refine manuscripts, providing constructive feedback and guiding revisions to enhance the overall quality and coherence of the book. They also coordinate with copy editors, proofreaders, and designers to ensure the manuscript transitions smoothly through each stage of production. Effective communication and project management skills are essential, as Books Editors often juggle multiple projects and deadlines while acting as a liaison between the author and the publishing team. Collaboration is key to producing a polished final product that aligns with both the author's vision and the publisher's standards.

What is the difference between Books Editor vs Books Writer?

AspectBooks EditorBooks Writer
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in English, Literature, or related field; editing experienceUsually a bachelor's degree in English, Literature, or creative writing; strong writing portfolio
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, editing firms, freelance editingIndependent, publishing companies, freelance writing
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by publishers to refine manuscripts before publicationUsed by publishers, authors, or freelancers to create original content
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding editing roles, responsibilities, and skillsUnderstanding writing roles, skills, and career paths

The main difference between a Books Editor and a Books Writer lies in their roles: editors focus on refining and improving manuscripts, ensuring clarity, consistency, and quality, while writers create original content from scratch. Both roles require strong language skills and relevant education, but their day-to-day tasks and career paths differ significantly.

How much money do books editors make?

Books editors typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the type of publishing. Senior editors or those working for major publishing houses can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Many editors also benefit from freelance opportunities, which can vary widely in income based on workload and reputation.

How to get work as a books editor?

To work as a books editor, develop strong editing and writing skills, often through a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or related fields. Gaining experience via internships, freelance editing, or working in publishing houses can improve job prospects, and familiarity with editing tools like Microsoft Word or editing software is beneficial.

Is there a demand for books editors?

Books editors are in steady demand as publishers seek skilled professionals to improve manuscript quality and ensure marketability. Employment opportunities often depend on experience, industry connections, and proficiency with editing tools, with demand remaining relatively stable in publishing and media industries.

What qualifications do I need to be a books editor?

To become a books editor, a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field is typically required. Strong editing skills, attention to detail, excellent communication, and proficiency with editing tools or software are also important qualifications for the role.

What are popular job titles related to Books Editor jobs in Hawaii?

For Books Editor jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Books Editor jobs in Hawaii look for?

The top searched job categories for Books Editor jobs in Hawaii are:

What cities in Hawaii are hiring for Books Editor jobs?

Cities in Hawaii with the most Books Editor job openings:

Infographic showing various Books Editor job openings in Hawaii as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Director and Publisher, University of Hawaii Press (pos # 0089091)

University of Hawaii

Honolulu, HI • On-site

$129K - $233K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


University Of Hawaii System rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

237th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description Title: Director and Publisher, University of Hawaii Press Position Number: 0089091 Hiring Unit: Office of the Provost, Manoa Reports to: University Librarian Date Posted: January 5, 2026 Closing Date: Continuous recruitment. For best consideration, please submit an application by April 13, 2026 as review of applications will begin on or about April 24, 2026." Employee Type: Executive/Managerial (EM) I. INTRODUCTION The University of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Manoa) is the only R1 Doctoral University with Very High Research Activity in Hawaii

By virtue of its culture and geographic location, UH Manoa plays an important role in providing Hawaiian, Asian, and Pacific perspectives on the higher education experience. University of Hawai'i Press supports the mission of the university through the publication of books and journals of exceptional merit, advancing knowledge through the dissemination of scholarship with a primary focus on Asian, Pacific, Hawaiian, Asian American, and global studies. It provides high-quality books and resource materials of educational value on topics related to Hawai'i's people, culture, and natural environment.

In addition, it is a place that is responsive to Native Hawaiian well-being (including NH students, employees, communities, and aina) and a place that is reflective of Hawaiian language, history, and culture for all people to learn, grow, connect, and heal. II. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Direct the Press's operations, ensuring compatibility with the overall mission of the University by providing academic support through its publication of books, journals, and other materials that reflect the teaching and research strengths of the University.

Work with University faculty and administrators to further the Press' role in expanding the University's academic objectives and reputation. Establish internal policies governing Press operations in conformance with federal and state regulations, and University policies and procedures. Manage the administrative and financial affairs of the Press in a fiscally sound manner.

Advocate for and obtain financial resources, based on sound financial plans, to meet the needs of the UH Press and allocate and administer the UH Press' budget. Lead fundraising efforts to secure external funding and philanthropic support, diversify revenue streams, and develop strategic partnerships with industry, government agencies, and private foundations that will further advance the provision of programs and services in the long-term. Oversee publishing contracts, including co-publishing agreements with overseas publishers; oversee the licensing of subsidiary rights and electronic editions; review arrangements for reprint editions; establish and maintain effective publishing relationships with UH Press authors, co-publishers, distributors, and visiting scholars and researchers.

Serve as the representative for UH Press to the University community, and local, national, and international constituents. As senior executive of the Press and an ex-officio member of the faculty editorial board, determine the editorial direction of UH Press. Working in collaboration with the editorial board, the executive editor, and the acquisitions team, support ongoing development of an intellectually vibrant and diverse community publishing program.

Collaborate with Press department managers to develop a strategic plan that sets clear, achievable goals and objectives, creating a solid framework for both current and future operational plans. Adapt proactively to evolving industry trends and challenges. Enhance the Press's operations by researching, planning, and implementing new publishing initiatives that take advantage of current and evolving technologies; apply available resources to publishing activities that impact positively on goals and objectives; and monitor publishing industry trends to ensure the Press remains a sustainable operation.

Lead an inclusive administrative, fiscal, and human resources staff. Advance the publishing of works in olelo Hawaii. Advance the Press' development of electronic publishing.

Participate in forums that explore the potential for digital initiatives to enrich the scholarly publishing ecosphere, including advances in accessibility and similar equity-based models. Foster key strategic relationships within the university and in the broader academic publishing world. III.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Master's degree in one of the Liberal Arts disciplines (or related field), or equivalent education and experience. Five (5) years of professional experience in a senior management position with a scholarly or commercial publisher with substantial annual sales and including some experience in international publishing; or comparable professional experience. Demonstrated experience in co-publishing, rights and permissions, and e-books, and working knowledge of intellectual property issues, including international copyright conventions.

Demonstrated experience in overseeing complicated budgets; demonstrated success in financial planning. Strong interpersonal, communication and leadership skills and demonstrated commitment to consultative and collaborative processes. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with authors, faculty, University executives and staff, and external constituencies.

Demonstrated commitment to building consultative and collaborative working relationships with staff Demonstrated experience creating and developing innovative programs/initiatives. Demonstrated fundraising and resource development experience and results, including a record of securing external grants and donations for program development or research activities Demonstrated ability to effectively manage organizational change initiatives. Demonstrated commitment to the highest ethical and academic standards.

Working knowledge of publishing databases and MS Office. Understanding of the national and international landscape of academic publishing IV. DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Doctoral degree.

Expertise in a subject area published by the UH Press. Demonstrated knowledge of the Hawaii, Pacific, and Asia publishing trade. Experience with press operations of at least $2.5 million in annual sales

A proven track record of engaging effectively with publishing stakeholders both within and outside the university. Working knowledge of fulfillment and distribution channels. Ability to work within the regulations or a public institution and a unionized environment.

Demonstrated experience supporting olelo Hawaii or other indigenous language/culture in their Press work. Experience in acquisitions, editorial design and production, marketing, or journals. To Apply: A NEOGOV account must be established, and then candidates may attach the following to the online application: (1) A cover letter summarizing their interest and how qualifications are met for the position (no more than 3 pages), (2) A current curriculum vitae, (3) Names and contact information of four (4) professional references.

Note: Original official transcripts are required at time of hire. References will not be contacted without prior notice to the candidate. Only the finalists will be publicly posted on the the Manoa Executive Search website.

A background check will be made prior to employment. Nomination and Inquiries: Linda Voong, Executive Search Coordinator at uhmexec@hawaii.edu. EEO, Clery Act, ADA The University of Hawai'i is an Equal Opportunity Institution and is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment, including on the basis of veteran and disability status

For more information, visit: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/policies/ Employment is contingent on satisfying employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986; reference checks of previous employers; and for certain positions, criminal history record checks. In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, annual campus crime statistics for the University of Hawai'i may be viewed at: https://www.hawaii.edu/titleix/help/campus- security/, or a paper copy may be obtained upon request from the respective UH Campus Security or Administrative Services Office. Accommodation Request: The University of Hawai'i complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the EEO coordinator directly. Determination on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case- by-case basis. For further information, please refer to the following link: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/accommodation-request/


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About University of Hawaii

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The University of Hawaii, located in Honolulu, HI, US, is an internationally recognized institution of higher learning. Spanning across ten campuses, including one online university, it represents the public system of higher education in the state of Hawaii. Established in 1907, the university operates in the educational services industry, its mission rooted in quality and affordable education for all. It offers over 600 different study programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in a broad spectrum of disciplines. Some of its unrivaled specialties encompass tropical agriculture, tropical medicine, oceanography, astronomy, electrical engineering, volcanology, and Pacific Islands and Asian area studies.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Honolulu, HI, US

Year founded

1907