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Literary Agent Reader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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How much do literary agent reader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for literary agent 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 does a typical day look like for a Literary Agent Reader?

A typical day for a Literary Agent Reader involves reviewing submitted manuscripts, queries, or sample chapters to assess their suitability for representation. Readers write detailed reports or coverage, outlining the strengths, weaknesses, and market potential of each submission, and often meet with literary agents to discuss promising finds. While much of the work is independent and requires focused reading, collaboration with agents and occasional communication with authors or editors may also be part of the job. Many readers work remotely or on a freelance basis, managing their own schedules to meet submission deadlines. This role offers valuable exposure to the publishing industry and can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced positions within literary agencies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Literary Agent Reader position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Literary Agent Reader, you need a strong background in literary analysis, excellent reading comprehension, and a keen understanding of market trends in publishing, often supported by a degree in English, literature, or a related field. Familiarity with manuscript tracking software, digital document management systems, and standard submission protocols is often required. Strong communication skills, professionalism, and the ability to provide constructive feedback help candidates excel in this position. These abilities are crucial because the role involves evaluating a high volume of submissions quickly and effectively, helping literary agents identify promising manuscripts and authors.

What is a Literary Agent Reader job?

A Literary Agent Reader evaluates manuscript submissions for a literary agency, assessing their quality, market potential, and fit for the agency. They provide written reports or coverage summarizing strengths, weaknesses, and suitability for representation. Readers help agents identify promising manuscripts but typically do not communicate directly with authors. This role is often freelance or entry-level, serving as a stepping stone to higher positions in publishing. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of market trends are essential for success.

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What cities are hiring for Literary Agent Reader jobs? Cities with the most Literary Agent Reader job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Literary Agent Reader jobs? The most popular types of Literary Agent Reader jobs are:
What states have the most Literary Agent Reader jobs? States with the most job openings for Literary Agent Reader jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Literary Agent Reader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Literary Agent Reader jobs are:
Infographic showing various Literary Agent Reader job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,077 per year, or $19.7 per hour.
Senior Editor/Executive Editor, Gallery Books

Senior Editor/Executive Editor, Gallery Books

Simon & Schuster

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Simon & Schuster rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 17 rated publishing


Job description

Simon & Schuster was named to Forbes magazine list of America's Best Mid-Size Employers 2022. Simon & Schuster is a global leader in general interest publishing, dedicated to providing the best in fiction and nonfiction for readers of all ages, and in all printed, digital and audio formats. Its distinguished roster of authors includes many of the world's most popular and widely recognized writers, and winners of the most prestigious literary honors and awards. It is home to numerous well-known imprints and divisions such as Simon & Schuster, Scribner, Atria Books, Gallery Books, Pocket Books, Adams Media, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing and Simon & Schuster Audio and international companies in Australia, Canada, India and the United Kingdom, and proudly brings the works of its authors to readers in more than 200 countries and territories. For more information visit our website at www.simonandschuster.com.
Gallery Books, a division of Simon & Schuster, is seeking a Senior Editor or Executive Editor to acquire and edit a dynamic list of commercial fiction with a focus on Romance.
Responsibilities
  • Acquire and edit 12-15 titles annually, with a primary focus on Romance across subgenres (including contemporary, historical, romantasy, rom-com, and emerging trends within the category)
  • Identify and develop high-potential manuscripts with strong commercial appeal and breakout potential
  • Provide substantive editorial direction, guiding projects from acquisition through publication
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with literary agents, authors, and internal stakeholders
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, publicity, and sales teams to position titles for success in a competitive marketplace
  • Track market trends, readership data, and emerging voices to inform acquisition strategy

Qualifications
  • Minimum 8+ years of experience in trade publishing, with a proven track record of acquiring and editing successful titles
  • Demonstrated expertise and deep enthusiasm for the Romance category
  • Strong agent relationships and ability to source and close competitive deals
  • Exceptional editorial instincts, with experience developing manuscripts at all stages
  • Proven ability to manage a high-volume list while staying organized, maintaining quality, and meeting deadlines
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Strategic mindset with an eye toward both creative development and commercial performance

Preferred
  • Experience working with bestselling and high-profile authors
  • A track record of building or contributing to a successful Romance publishing program
  • Awareness of digital trends, including BookTok and online reader communities

Simon & Schuster US is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) including disability/vet. At Simon & Schuster US, the spirit of inclusion feeds into everything that we do. From employee benefits/programs and social impact outreach initiatives, we believe that opportunity, access, resources and rewards should be available to and for the benefit of all. Simon & Schuster US is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, and Veteran status.
The hiring salary range for this position applies to New York City, California, Colorado, Washington state, and most other geographies. Starting pay for the successful applicant depends on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education. The benefits available for this position include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) plan, life insurance coverage, disability benefits, tuition assistance program and PTO or, if applicable. Additionally, employees have access to our industry-first, Broad Based Ownership program, which makes all employees partners in our shared success.
Candidates hired for this or any other posted Simon & Schuster role will be employees of Simon & Schuster, LLC, subject to all policies, including the Workplace Privacy Notice, and eligible solely for the benefits plans thereof.