Freelance Manuscript Reader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The mission of W Publishing is to publish great books from Christian authors that inform, inspire, and lead to changes that matter—in this life and the next. Our authors include John Bevere, Louie Giglio, Max Lucado, Savannah Guthrie, Lisa Harper, Anne Wilson, and many more.

This position will oversee front-list titles from transmittal of final manuscript to bound books. Working closely with acquiring editors, content designers, art directors, and production managers, you will have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects and be responsible for keeping books on track as they move through the production process.

The ideal candidate will not only be an organized, detail-oriented individual with strong project management skills, but will also be an avid book reader who shares W Publishing’s mission to create meaningful, powerful content in partnership with today’s most vital voices in the areas of Christian spiritual growth and practical living.

Our preference is to fill this position in Nashville, TN or Grand Rapids, MI but we are also open to qualified candidates that are located outside of these areas. Travel may be required based on the need of the business.

• Handles the production editorial process from manuscript to bound book for 10-15 front-list titles a year, utilizing electronic workflow.
• Assesses manuscripts for copyediting and the styling of all design elements, using proprietary Microsoft Word styles for design and composition.
• Coordinates with the design teams and freelance editors, collates corrections from freelancers and authors, verifies that corrections have been made, and ensures timely delivery of final files to the printer.
• Maintains excellent communication and develops excellent working relationships with colleagues, including acquisitions editors, marketing and publicity staff, salespeople, production staff, designers, typesetters, and freelancers.
• Works with authors and agents to obtain approval for text design, copyediting, and final cover files and to secure permissions and releases as needed.
• Assists with various editions of assigned projects, including special editions, international editions, trade paper conversions, and derivative products.
• Facilitates creation of cover copy and catalog copy, writing and proofreading as needed, and assists with the catalog and consumer description process across functions and stakeholders.
• Copyedits flap and cover copy and proofreads and checks all stages of jacket/cover proofs.
• Delivers editorial support for internal documents related to book proposals, sales conference materials, marketing materials, and other important documents as needed.
• Inputs and updates reprint corrections.
• Attends and contributes to production and other related meetings.

Knowledge: Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, and the Chicago Manual of Style; familiarity with the Bible and evangelical Christianity preferred, including broad trends within the world of Christian nonfiction publishing.

Work Experience:  Minimum 3 years’ editorial experience, preferably in trade book publishing.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, or related field. Other majors are welcome when combined with relevant experience.

Industry Knowledge: Keeps up with trends in the publishing industry by reading trade magazines, such as Publisher’s Weekly preferred; working knowledge of popular Christian books and authors a plus.

Skills: 

• Solid copyediting and proofreading skills; knowledge of industry standards.
• Able to shepherd multiple projects and manage competing priorities at once while maintaining high standards of quality and hitting deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strategic and always able to understand the bigger picture.
• Enjoy working independently and as a member of a collaborative team.
• Detail oriented; eagle-eyed at catching errors.
• Able to learn new systems quickly, such as HarperCollins’ proprietary software for managing manuscripts.
• A personal drive for excellence.

HarperCollins Christian Publishing is an equal opportunity employer.

HarperCollins Christian Publishing is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, in our job application and/or interview process. If you need assistance or accommodation in completing your application, due to a disability, email us at TalentManagement@harpercollins.com. Note: we will only respond to accommodation requests.