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Books Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sourcebooks LLC

Editor - Children's/YA

Naperville, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

At Sourcebooks, we believe books change lives-and we're looking for an Editor who wants to help shape the next generation of children's and young adult publishing. This isn't a traditional editorial ...

Scholastic Corporation

Editor

New York, NY · On-site

THE OPPORTUNITY Editor, 0-8 Publishing, will identify, acquire, and develop high-quality and commercial board books, novelty books, and select picture books for the Children's Book Group, under the ...

Concordia Publishing House

As an Associate Copy Editor at Concordia Publishing House, you'll serve as a vital qualitycontrol partner in the creation of books and resources that support the Church's mission. Your careful edits ...

Scholastic

Editor

New York, NY · Hybrid

THE OPPORTUNITY Editor, 0-8 Publishing, will identify, acquire, and develop high-quality and commercial board books, novelty books, and select picture books for the Children's Book Group, under the ...

Hachette Book Group

Editor, Basic Venture

New York, NY · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

The Basic Books Group is a division of Hachette Book Group dedicated to making the world smarter by publishing works of serious non-fiction by expert authors. We are seeking an Editor to acquire ...

Hachette Book Group

Editor, Basic Venture

New York, NY · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

The Basic Books Group is a division of Hachette Book Group dedicated to making the world smarter by publishing works of serious non-fiction by expert authors. We are seeking an Editor to acquire ...

Concordia Publishing House

How to access and utilize reference materials (books, Internet, etc. Skilled in * Writing and editing for clarity * Exegetical writing * Critical analysis * Researching facts and data via reference ...

Macmillan

Senior Editor, TOR

Manhattan, NY

$80K - $90K/yr

This role will primarily acquire for the Tor Books imprint, with additional opportunities to ... Work closely with authors during editing process and every stage of publishing thereafter ...

Hachette Book Group

Editor, Basic Venture

New York, NY · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

The Basic Books Group is a division of Hachette Book Group dedicated to making the world smarter by publishing works of serious non-fiction by expert authors. We are seeking an Editor to acquire ...

Springer Nature

Assistant Editor

New York, NY · On-site

Assistant Editor Location : New York - Hybrid, Permanent Closing date: July 17, 2026 About Springer ... We publish the largest number of journals and books and are pioneers in open research. Through our ...

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Books Editor information

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How much do books editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for books editor in the United States is $31.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $39.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do Books Editors 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.

Does JK Rowling use an editor?

As a successful author, JK Rowling works with professional editors to refine her manuscripts before publication. Editors help improve clarity, structure, and consistency, which is a common practice in the publishing industry for authors at her level.

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 much money do book editors make?

Book editors typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, with experienced editors or those working in specialized fields earning higher. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and whether they work freelance or for a publishing company.

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.

Is there a high demand for book editors?

Book editors are in steady demand as publishers and authors seek skilled professionals to improve manuscript quality. Employment opportunities can vary based on industry trends, with digital publishing and self-publishing increasing the need for editing services. Strong editing skills and familiarity with editing tools are important for success in this field.

How can I get a job as a book editor?

To become a book editor, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field, along with strong editing, writing, and communication skills. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level editing positions and becoming proficient with editing software can improve job prospects. Building a portfolio of editing work and networking within the publishing industry are also important steps.
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Books Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Books Editor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,728 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Editor - Children's/YA

Editor - Children's/YA

Sourcebooks LLC

Naperville, IL • On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

At Sourcebooks, we believe books change lives-and we're looking for an Editor who wants to help shape the next generation of children's and young adult publishing. This isn't a traditional editorial role. It's an opportunity to build a publishing list, champion new voices, and develop books that resonate with readers and drive commercial success. We're looking for someone who loves discovering authors, thinking strategically about the marketplace, and partnering across every stage of the publishing process-from acquisition through publication.
As an Editor on the Children's and YA team, you'll acquire and develop children's, middle grade, and young adult titles while helping shape the future of one of the industry's most entrepreneurial publishing programs. If you're excited by balancing creativity with business strategy, thrive in a collaborative environment, and believe books have the power to change lives, we'd love to meet you.
This is an exempt salaried position with a range of $60,000 - $65,000. 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.
The location for this position can be hybrid or remote in New York or Naperville, Illinois or remote based in any of the following states: Arizona, Connecticut, Illinois, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington D.C. and Wisconsin. This role includes some travel with occasional meetings at the home office in Naperville, Illinois and includes occasional travel for industry events.
What You'll Do
  • Build and manage your own publishing list across the Children's + YA program.
  • Identify, acquire, and develop commercially successful children's, middle grade, and young adult titles.
  • Cultivate relationships with literary agents, authors, and publishing partners to identify new opportunities.
  • Present projects at acquisitions meetings and negotiate deals with authors and agents.
  • Develop manuscripts through developmental editing, positioning, and editorial guidance from acquisition through publication.
  • Shape each project's market positioning, including titles, subtitles, packaging, metadata, marketing copy, and sales materials.
  • Partner with Design, Production, Marketing, Publicity, Sales, and Content Delivery to successfully launch every title.
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining exceptional quality, organization, and deadlines.
  • Analyze marketplace trends and competitive titles to help inform publishing strategy and future acquisitions.
  • Contribute to licensing opportunities, independent publishing partnerships, and strategic growth initiatives across the Children's + YA program.
What You Bring
  • 3-5+ years of publishing experience with editorial acquisitions and developmental editing experience.
  • A passion for discovering new talent and building successful publishing programs.
  • Strong editorial instincts and the ability to shape manuscripts for both readers and the marketplace.
  • Experience managing multiple publishing projects from acquisition through publication.
  • Outstanding communication, relationship-building, and negotiation skills.
  • A commercial mindset paired with strong creative judgment.
  • An entrepreneurial spirit-you enjoy taking ownership, solving problems, and helping build something bigger than yourself.
  • A collaborative approach and excitement for working across departments.
  • A genuine love of children's and young adult books.

Ready to Apply:
Please submit your resume, portfolio, salary requirements, and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in this role. Applications without a cover letter and portfolio 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.

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