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Freelance Manuscript Reader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Freelance Manuscript Reader information

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How much do freelance manuscript reader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance manuscript reader in the United States is $19.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are freelance manuscript readers?

Freelance manuscript readers are professionals who evaluate and provide feedback on unpublished manuscripts for publishers, literary agencies, or independent authors. Their main responsibility is to assess the quality, market potential, and suitability of manuscripts, often by writing detailed reports or summaries. They help editors and agents decide which submissions are worth pursuing for publication. Manuscript readers typically work on a freelance basis, allowing them to read and evaluate manuscripts for multiple clients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Manuscript Reader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Manuscript Reader, you need excellent analytical reading skills, a strong grasp of literary techniques, and familiarity with genre conventions, often supported by a background in English, literature, or publishing. Familiarity with manuscript management systems, editorial software, and industry-standard style guides is typically required. Attention to detail, effective written communication, and time management are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure insightful feedback, maintain editorial standards, and help manage multiple projects efficiently in a competitive publishing environment.

What is the difference between Freelance Manuscript Reader vs Freelance Literary Agent?

AspectFreelance Manuscript ReaderFreelance Literary Agent
CredentialsExperience in editing, literary knowledgeIndustry experience, networking skills
Work EnvironmentRemote, project-basedRemote or office, client-facing
Employer & IndustryPublishing houses, authors, literary agenciesAuthors, publishers, literary agencies
Search & Comparison IntentAssessing manuscripts, editingRepresenting authors, securing publishing deals

While both roles involve working with manuscripts, a Freelance Manuscript Reader primarily reviews and evaluates submissions for quality, often working independently. A Freelance Literary Agent, on the other hand, actively represents authors, negotiates publishing contracts, and builds industry connections. Understanding these differences helps writers and industry professionals choose the right role for their needs.

How does a Freelance Manuscript Reader typically interact with authors and editors during the review process?

As a Freelance Manuscript Reader, most communication is conducted remotely, often via email or project management platforms. You may receive manuscripts directly from editors or literary agents, with clear guidelines on what feedback is needed. While direct contact with authors is rare, you will frequently collaborate with editors by providing detailed reader reports or recommendations. Timely and professional communication is essential, ensuring your feedback aligns with editorial goals and deadlines. This collaborative workflow allows you to contribute meaningfully to the selection and development of manuscripts.
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Senior Designer, Adult, UNSQ

Senior Designer, Adult, UNSQ

Hachette Book Group

New York, NY • On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY:
Union Square & Co. is seeking a highly organized, motivated, and creative senior designer to join our team. As an integral part of our group, this person will carry each project through the design process, including conception, execution, approval, and transmitting files to Production. They should have extensive experience in book cover design and feel comfortable focusing on a range of genres under the supervision of the Art Director, Adult Books.
Duties include:
  • Conceptualize and generate creative and innovative cover designs for UNSQ's Adult list, including Classics, and select Gift titles
  • Works closely with the Art Director to maintain the highest quality of design and production standards while keeping on track with deadlines
  • Collaborates closely with editorial team to develop thoughtful, market-appropriate designs
  • Oversees all stages of preparation including prepress, color correction, setting print-ready files up for special effects, and proof review.
  • Maintains ongoing communications and schedules with the Editorial and Production departments to ensure timely execution and follow through from manuscript to bound 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 the envelope in both concept and execution
  • Attends weekly status and design meetings
  • Stays abreast of changes in publishing industry, design trends, and new techniques that will improve the efficiency and creativity

Minimum requirements:
  • 4-year college degree preferably in Graphic Design, or equivalent work experience
  • Minimum 5-7 years design experience in book publishing
  • Proficient in InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, and Acrobat
  • Extensive experience designing book covers
  • Experience hiring and overseeing illustrators, negotiating rates, and rights usage
  • Detailed knowledge of pre-press requirements for print: manufacturing process, proofing, and color correction
  • Proven ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment

The compensation for this position is $65,000-$75,000. Salary can vary based on a number of factors including skills, experience, and location - talk with your recruiter to learn more. There may be times that you will be required (or requested) to work overtime due to the nature of your role or exceptional workload issues or special projects.
As a leading book publisher, we believe that including and representing diverse voices in all aspects of our business is fundamental to what we do. Our publishing programs must reflect the broad range of backgrounds, experiences, political views and ideas that shape our society and publish books for all readers.
Hachette Book Group provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
The following benefits are offered by the company: medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life, short-term and long-term disability, accidental death and dismemberment, critical illness, hospital indemnity, long-term care, health and dependent care FSA, commuter benefit plan, employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement, travel assistance, 401(k), discretionary bonus program, PTO (15 vacation days, 3 personal days, 10 holidays and generous sick leave) and group discounts on auto and home insurance and legal services. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification, hours worked and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms.