Sr Designer, MCPG
$70K - $85K/yr
Macmillan Children's Publishing Group is looking for a resourceful and imaginative book designer ... Work with freelancers, illustrators, photographers, and agents * Route material for approval ...
Sr Designer, MCPG
$70K - $85K/yr
Macmillan Children's Publishing Group is looking for a resourceful and imaginative book designer ... Work with freelancers, illustrators, photographers, and agents * Route material for approval ...
Freelance Digital Designer
New York, NY · On-site
Freelance Digital Designer 1R is a rapidly growing eCommerce design, strategy and technology firm ... Execute designs based on established style guides and brand book. * Understand site structure and ...
Quick apply
Freelance Digital Designer
New York, NY · On-site
Freelance Digital Designer 1R is a rapidly growing eCommerce design, strategy and technology firm ... Execute designs based on established style guides and brand book. * Understand site structure and ...
Senior Designer, Adult, UNSQ
New York, NY · On-site
$65K - $75K/yr
... book for all projects * Researches and oversees freelance illustrators and designers when required * Ensures that designs fulfill UNSQ's high standards, represent the brand in the market, and push ...
Senior Designer, Adult, UNSQ
New York, NY · On-site
$65K - $75K/yr
... book for all projects * Researches and oversees freelance illustrators and designers when required * Ensures that designs fulfill UNSQ's high standards, represent the brand in the market, and push ...
Senior Designer, Adult, UNSQ
$65K - $75K/yr
... book for all projects * Researches and oversees freelance illustrators and designers when required * Ensures that designs fulfill UNSQ's high standards, represent the brand in the market, and push ...
Senior Designer, Adult, UNSQ
$65K - $75K/yr
... book for all projects * Researches and oversees freelance illustrators and designers when required * Ensures that designs fulfill UNSQ's high standards, represent the brand in the market, and push ...
Senior Designer, Adult, UNSQ
New York, NY · On-site
$65K - $75K/yr
... book for all projects * Researches and oversees freelance illustrators and designers when required * Ensures that designs fulfill UNSQ's high standards, represent the brand in the market, and push ...
Senior Designer, Adult, UNSQ
New York, NY · On-site
$65K - $75K/yr
... book for all projects * Researches and oversees freelance illustrators and designers when required * Ensures that designs fulfill UNSQ's high standards, represent the brand in the market, and push ...
Designer, Global Publishing
$65K - $75K/yr
Create and deliver original and adapted book designs to sustain Ligonier's release schedule for ... Experience advising external contractors or freelancers. * Ability to adapt designs for different ...
Designer, Global Publishing
$65K - $75K/yr
Create and deliver original and adapted book designs to sustain Ligonier's release schedule for ... Experience advising external contractors or freelancers. * Ability to adapt designs for different ...
Senior Designer, Workman Publishing, Children's
New York, NY · On-site
$65K - $70K/yr
Partner with the design staff, editors, and publisher to manage multiple book projects from start to finish * Researches and oversees freelance illustrators and designers * Prepare cover mechanicals ...
Senior Designer, Workman Publishing, Children's
New York, NY · On-site
$65K - $70K/yr
Partner with the design staff, editors, and publisher to manage multiple book projects from start to finish * Researches and oversees freelance illustrators and designers * Prepare cover mechanicals ...
Partner with the design staff, editors, and publisher to manage multiple book projects from start to finish * Researches and oversees freelance illustrators and designers * Prepare cover mechanicals ...
Partner with the design staff, editors, and publisher to manage multiple book projects from start to finish * Researches and oversees freelance illustrators and designers * Prepare cover mechanicals ...
Senior Designer, Workman Publishing, Children's
New York, NY · On-site
$65K - $70K/yr
Partner with the design staff, editors, and publisher to manage multiple book projects from start to finish * Researches and oversees freelance illustrators and designers * Prepare cover mechanicals ...
Senior Designer, Workman Publishing, Children's
New York, NY · On-site
$65K - $70K/yr
Partner with the design staff, editors, and publisher to manage multiple book projects from start to finish * Researches and oversees freelance illustrators and designers * Prepare cover mechanicals ...
... book covers and interiors for both original non-fiction and licensed content, targeting readers ... Meet with editors, find and hire illustrators /packagers and freelance designers. Manage schedules ...
... book covers and interiors for both original non-fiction and licensed content, targeting readers ... Meet with editors, find and hire illustrators /packagers and freelance designers. Manage schedules ...
Designer
New York, NY · On-site
... book covers and interiors for both original non-fiction and licensed content, targeting readers ... Meet with editors, find and hire illustrators /packagers and freelance designers. Manage schedules ...
Designer
New York, NY · On-site
... book covers and interiors for both original non-fiction and licensed content, targeting readers ... Meet with editors, find and hire illustrators /packagers and freelance designers. Manage schedules ...
Designer - Celadon
Manhattan, NY · On-site +1
$60K - $65K/yr
Closely collaborate on book projects with the editorial team, creative director, marketing ... Collaborate with freelancers, illustrators, photographers, and agents * Identify, hire, and manage ...
Designer - Celadon
Manhattan, NY · On-site +1
$60K - $65K/yr
Closely collaborate on book projects with the editorial team, creative director, marketing ... Collaborate with freelancers, illustrators, photographers, and agents * Identify, hire, and manage ...
Designer - Celadon
Manhattan, NY · On-site +1
$60K - $65K/yr
Closely collaborate on book projects with the editorial team, creative director, marketing ... Collaborate with freelancers, illustrators, photographers, and agents * Identify, hire, and manage ...
Designer - Celadon
Manhattan, NY · On-site +1
$60K - $65K/yr
Closely collaborate on book projects with the editorial team, creative director, marketing ... Collaborate with freelancers, illustrators, photographers, and agents * Identify, hire, and manage ...
Senior Designer, WHO HQ, Penguin Young Readers (Open to Remote)
Manhattan, NY · On-site +1
$73K/yr
... book publishing program as outlined above. You will work closely with the Associate Publisher, Designers, and Editorial, and freelancers. You will have the chance to shine as you bring your unique ...
New
Senior Designer, WHO HQ, Penguin Young Readers (Open to Remote)
Manhattan, NY · On-site +1
$73K/yr
... book publishing program as outlined above. You will work closely with the Associate Publisher, Designers, and Editorial, and freelancers. You will have the chance to shine as you bring your unique ...
New
Designer - Publishing
El Segundo, CA · On-site
Responsible for all stages of book design from sourcing and hiring artists/freelance designers to providing art direction, routing and making changes to layouts, creating title and series logo ...
Designer - Publishing
El Segundo, CA · On-site
Responsible for all stages of book design from sourcing and hiring artists/freelance designers to providing art direction, routing and making changes to layouts, creating title and series logo ...
Senior Designer
New York, NY · On-site
$111K - $119K/yr
Recruitment and management of freelance designers as needed About Scholastic For more than 100 ... As the world's largest publisher and distributor of children's books through school-based book ...
Senior Designer
New York, NY · On-site
$111K - $119K/yr
Recruitment and management of freelance designers as needed About Scholastic For more than 100 ... As the world's largest publisher and distributor of children's books through school-based book ...
Senior Designer
New York, NY · Hybrid
$111K - $119K/yr
Recruitment and management of freelance designers as needed About Scholastic For more than 100 ... As the world's largest publisher and distributor of children's books through school-based book ...
Senior Designer
New York, NY · Hybrid
$111K - $119K/yr
Recruitment and management of freelance designers as needed About Scholastic For more than 100 ... As the world's largest publisher and distributor of children's books through school-based book ...
Responsible for all stages of book design from sourcing and hiring artists/freelance designers to providing art direction, routing and making changes to layouts, creating title and series logo ...
Responsible for all stages of book design from sourcing and hiring artists/freelance designers to providing art direction, routing and making changes to layouts, creating title and series logo ...
Designer - Publishing
El Segundo, CA · On-site
Responsible for all stages of book design from sourcing and hiring artists/freelance designers to providing art direction, routing and making changes to layouts, creating title and series logo ...
Designer - Publishing
El Segundo, CA · On-site
Responsible for all stages of book design from sourcing and hiring artists/freelance designers to providing art direction, routing and making changes to layouts, creating title and series logo ...
... book publishers, especially in the area of Developmental Psychology. This work is fully remote ... You'll also receive feedback from our in-house Instructional Designers. Qualifications: * Master ...
... book publishers, especially in the area of Developmental Psychology. This work is fully remote ... You'll also receive feedback from our in-house Instructional Designers. Qualifications: * Master ...
Freelance Book Designer information
See salary details
$23.52 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.90 - $25.57
31% of jobs
The median wage is $32.14 / hr.
$25.57 - $36.23
31% of jobs
$36.23 - $46.90
4% of jobs
$56.23 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$46.90 - $57.56
10% of jobs
$57.56 - $68.23
9% of jobs
$68.23 - $78.89
5% of jobs
$78.89 - $89.55
0% of jobs
$89.55 - $100.22
8% of jobs
$100.22 - $110.88
0% of jobs
$110.88 - $121.55
0% of jobs
$121.55 - $132.21
1% of jobs
$14
$47
$132
How much do freelance book designer jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance book designer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
How does a freelance book designer typically collaborate with authors and publishers during a project?
Freelance book designers often work closely with authors and publishers through regular meetings, email updates, and shared project management tools. At the start, they discuss the book’s vision, target audience, and style preferences. Throughout the process, designers share drafts and revisions, incorporating feedback to ensure the final design aligns with the client’s expectations. Clear communication and flexibility are essential, as priorities may shift or additional input may be needed before finalizing the cover and interior layout.
What does a freelance book designer do?
A freelance book designer is a professional who creates the visual layout and overall aesthetic of a book, both inside and out. Their responsibilities typically include designing the cover, formatting the interior pages, selecting fonts, and ensuring the book meets publishing standards. Freelance book designers often work with authors, publishers, and self-publishers to bring a manuscript to life in print or digital form. They combine creativity with technical expertise to ensure the book is both visually appealing and easy to read.
What is the difference between Freelance Book Designer vs Freelance Graphic Designer?
| Aspect | Freelance Book Designer | Freelance Graphic Designer |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Design skills, possibly a degree in graphic design or related field | Design skills, often with a degree or certification in graphic design or visual arts |
| Work Environment | Typically works independently or with publishers, focusing on book layouts and covers | Works on various projects like branding, marketing materials, and digital media |
| Industry Usage | Commonly hired by publishers, authors, and self-publishing authors | Hired across multiple industries including advertising, publishing, and digital media |
While both roles require strong design skills and often similar credentials, a Freelance Book Designer specializes in creating layouts and covers specifically for books, working closely with publishers and authors. In contrast, a Freelance Graphic Designer has a broader scope, working on diverse visual projects across industries. The choice depends on your focus—book publishing or general visual design.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Book Designer, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Freelance Book Designer, you need a strong background in graphic design, typography, and layout principles, often supported by a portfolio demonstrating relevant experience. Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite (especially InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator) and knowledge of print production standards are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with authors and publishers are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure visually appealing, readable, and market-ready book designs that meet client expectations and industry standards.
What Does a Freelance Book Designer Do?
As a freelance book designer, your job is to help design the cover and interior of books. In this role, you may work by contract to select photography, purchase an illustration, and help manage the overall layout of the text. Freelance book designers often hire artists or create art themselves. Your goal is to make a cohesive, marketable product that still meets all legal standards for labeling. Many freelance book designers work with self-publishing authors who want independent support, rather than for a specific printing company. This job should not be confused with freelance book graphic design professionals, who only create art for books and do not perform other layout duties.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Book Designer jobs? The most popular types of Book Designer jobs are:
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Job description
Macmillan Children's Publishing Group is looking for a resourceful and imaginative book designer for Balzer + Bray, Feiwel & Friends, FSG BYR, Henry Holt BYR, Roaring Brook Press, and Odd Dot. The position encompasses a range of responsibilities associated with every stage of producing fiction and non-fiction chapter books, middle grade, and young adult novels. The ideal candidate will have a strong sense of commercial & literary design, branding, knowledge of the children's book marketplace and a keen eye for illustration, typography, photography, and how they influence new ideas and trends.
What you'll do:
What you'll bring:
Salary range for this role is $70,000 to $85,000.
This position is classified as remote but is tied to our New York, NY office located at 120 Broadway. Employment is subject to New York State tax withholding under applicable regulations.
Macmillan Publishers is the U.S. trade company that is part of the Holtzbrinck Publishing Group, a large family-owned group of media companies headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany. Holtzbrinck Publishing Group's publishing companies include prominent imprints around the world that publish a broad range of award-winning books for children and adults in all categories and formats.
U.S. publishers include Celadon Books, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, Flatiron Books, Henry Holt & Company, Macmillan Audio, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, The St. Martin's Publishing Group, and Tor Publishing Group. In the UK, Australia, India, and South Africa, companies in the Holtzbrinck Publishing Group publish under the Pan Macmillan name. The German publishing company, Holtzbrinck Deutsche Buchverlage, includes among its imprints S. Fischer, Kiepenheuer & Witsch, Rowohlt, and Droemer Knaur.
Macmillan is proud to be an equal opportunity employer consistently striving to foster a culture where everyone belongs. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and identities. Qualified applicants are evaluated without regard to race, color, religion, age, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability status, physical ability, neurodiversity, genetic information, protected veteran status, family and economic status and background or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We prohibit discrimination of any kind and will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
What you'll do:
- Deliver original, effective cover comps and polished final covers that are visually compelling and fresh for the market
- Design and manage all stages of book packaging (jackets, covers, interiors), from early concept to final bound book
- Closely collaborate on book projects with the editorial team, creative director, and production department
- Assist Art Director on design tasks
- Work with freelancers, illustrators, photographers, and agents
- Route material for approval, maintain schedules, prepare files for output and manage proofing process
- Work with other teams/departments to ensure materials requests are met in a timely and effective manner
What you'll bring:
- At least 4-6 years bookmaking experience, ideally in children's publishing or equivalent
- Degree in graphic design or other related fields or equivalent work experience.
- Adobe Creative Suite, Google Suite, Mac Platform
- Expert in color theory and design fundamentals
- Exceptional portfolio displaying strong typographic skills
- A keen interest in and understanding of the publishing industry
- Knowledge of technical process of book production and printing
- An ability to receive constructive feedback and proactively seek out compromise with colleagues
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Motivated to learn from and collaborate with team members
- A love of reading
Salary range for this role is $70,000 to $85,000.
This position is classified as remote but is tied to our New York, NY office located at 120 Broadway. Employment is subject to New York State tax withholding under applicable regulations.
Macmillan Publishers is the U.S. trade company that is part of the Holtzbrinck Publishing Group, a large family-owned group of media companies headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany. Holtzbrinck Publishing Group's publishing companies include prominent imprints around the world that publish a broad range of award-winning books for children and adults in all categories and formats.
U.S. publishers include Celadon Books, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, Flatiron Books, Henry Holt & Company, Macmillan Audio, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, The St. Martin's Publishing Group, and Tor Publishing Group. In the UK, Australia, India, and South Africa, companies in the Holtzbrinck Publishing Group publish under the Pan Macmillan name. The German publishing company, Holtzbrinck Deutsche Buchverlage, includes among its imprints S. Fischer, Kiepenheuer & Witsch, Rowohlt, and Droemer Knaur.
Macmillan is proud to be an equal opportunity employer consistently striving to foster a culture where everyone belongs. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and identities. Qualified applicants are evaluated without regard to race, color, religion, age, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability status, physical ability, neurodiversity, genetic information, protected veteran status, family and economic status and background or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We prohibit discrimination of any kind and will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
About Macmillan
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Print media publishing
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
New York, NY, US
Year founded
1982