Freelance Manuscript Reader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cider Mill Press (a division of Harper Focus) brings fine reading, information, and entertainment together between the covers of its creatively crafted books. As a publisher of high-quality cookbooks, elegant wine and spirits titles, humor and gift books, and beautifully designed illustrated nonfiction, we are committed to top-notch design, unique formats, and fresh content that make every book a standout on the shelf.

The Production Editor guides front-list titles through every stage of the production process, from the transmittal of the final manuscript to bound books. Partnering closely with acquiring editors, content designers, art directors, and production managers, you will manage a diverse slate of projects and serve as the central point of coordination that keeps each book moving on schedule and to specification.

The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, and brings impeccable time and schedule management to every project—able to track many moving parts at once, anticipate bottlenecks before they happen, and hold each title to its deadline without sacrificing quality. Just as important, they are an avid reader who embraces Cider Mill Press's mission to create meaningful, distinctive nonfiction that resonates with readers.

• Manages the production editorial process from copy-editing to bound book for up to 60+ front-list titles per year.
• Evaluates manuscripts for copy-editing needs and for the styling of all design elements, applying proprietary Microsoft Word styles for design and composition.
• Creates, maintains, and applies project and house style guides to ensure consistency across titles, series, and editions.
• Coordinates with design teams and freelance editors, consolidates corrections from freelancers and authors and ensures the timely delivery of final files to the printer.
• Uses Adobe Acrobat to mark up proofs, route corrections, manage comments, and verify that all changes are reflected accurately across each round.
• Builds strong working relationships with colleagues across the organization, including acquisitions editors, marketing and sales, production, designers, typesetters, and       freelancers.
• Supports additional editions of assigned projects, including special editions, international editions, trade paper conversions, and derivative products.
• Copy-edits flap and cover copy and proofreads and reviews all stages of jacket and cover proofs.
• Provides editorial support for internal documents related to book proposals, sales conference materials, marketing materials, and other priority materials as needed.

• Ability to evaluate whether images or illustrations submitted and/or selected meet the Cider Mill's quality standards and are in close agreement with the manuscript. Imagery and illustrations should then be monitored closely during the various phases of production to ensure that this alignment remains.

Knowledge: Thorough knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite and the Chicago Manual of Style. Working knowledge of Adobe Acrobat is required, including the use of commenting and markup tools to manage proof corrections. Familiarity with broad trends across nonfiction publishing is preferred.

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

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

Industry Knowledge Stays current with publishing-industry trends by reading trade publications such as Publishers Weekly (preferred).

Skills:

• Solid copy-editing and proofreading skills; knowledge of industry standards.
• Must have the ability to shepherd multiple projects while maintaining high standards of quality and hitting deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a personal drive for excellence.
• 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.

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.