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Literary Agent Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Timmons Group, Inc.

Senior Project Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

... agent of the company to sign engineering documents. * Must be capable of correctly operating ... be able to read technical literature and engineering plans. * Must demonstrate two-way ...

Timmons Group, Inc.

Senior Project Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

... agent of the company to sign engineering documents. * Must be capable of correctly operating ... be able to read technical literature and engineering plans. * Must demonstrate two-way ...

Timmons Group, Inc.

Senior Project Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

... agent of the company to sign engineering documents. * Must be capable of correctly operating ... be able to read technical literature and engineering plans. * Must demonstrate two-way ...

Timmons Group

Senior Project Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

... agent of the company to sign engineering documents. * Must be capable of correctly operating ... be able to read technical literature and engineering plans. * Must demonstrate two-way ...

Timmons Group

Senior Project Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

... agent of the company to sign engineering documents. * Must be capable of correctly operating ... be able to read technical literature and engineering plans. * Must demonstrate two-way ...

Timmons Group, Inc.

Senior Project Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

... agent of the company to sign engineering documents. * Must be capable of correctly operating ... be able to read technical literature and engineering plans. * Must demonstrate two-way ...

Timmons Group

Senior Project Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

... agent of the company to sign engineering documents. * Must be capable of correctly operating ... be able to read technical literature and engineering plans. * Must demonstrate two-way ...

Timmons Group

Senior Civil Project Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

... agent of the company to sign engineering documents. * Must be capable of correctly operating ... be able to read technical literature and engineering plans. * Must demonstrate two-way ...

All JobsLiterary Agent JobsLiterary Agent Jobs in Virginia

Literary Agent information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$66.3K

$100.1K

How much do literary agent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for literary agent in Virginia is $66,339.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,600.00 and $73,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a literary agent?

Literary agents represent authors and promote their client’s work with publishers. Typical duties of a literary agent include reviewing manuscripts, discussing literary goals with their clients, marketing their client’s writings to publishers to acquire book deals, and negotiating business contracts. Many literary agents specialize in a specific literary genre or only work with certain types of authors. Some are self-employed while others work for a literary agency. The best literary agents maintain close relationships with a wide variety of publishers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a literary agent, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Literary Agent, you need a deep understanding of the publishing industry, strong negotiation skills, and a keen eye for marketable manuscripts, often supported by a degree in English, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with contract management systems, publishing platforms, and relevant copyright laws is crucial. Exceptional networking abilities, persuasive communication, and attention to detail help literary agents build relationships and advocate for their clients. These skills are essential for discovering compelling talent, securing favorable deals, and navigating the competitive publishing landscape.

What are some common challenges literary agents face when representing new authors?

Literary agents often encounter challenges such as securing publishing deals for debut authors, who may not yet have an established platform or track record. Agents must also navigate a highly competitive market and advocate for fair contract terms and adequate compensation for their clients. Building strong relationships with editors and publishers, while managing the expectations of both authors and industry partners, is essential for success. Staying current with market trends and understanding what publishers are seeking can help agents better position new authors for success.

What is the difference between Literary Agent vs Book Editor?

AspectLiterary AgentBook Editor
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree; industry experienceUsually a bachelor's or master's in English, publishing, or related fields
Work EnvironmentAgency offices, industry events, client meetingsPublishing houses, editing suites, author collaborations
Industry UsageRepresents authors, negotiates publishing dealsWorks within publishing companies to refine and prepare manuscripts
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for roles in publishing and author representationCompared for roles in editing and publishing process

Both Literary Agents and Book Editors play vital roles in the publishing industry. Literary Agents focus on representing authors and securing publishing deals, while Book Editors work within publishing houses to improve and prepare manuscripts for publication. Understanding these differences helps aspiring professionals choose the right career path in the literary world.

How much can a literary agent make?

A literary agent's income varies widely, with many earning a commission of 15% on book deals they secure. Successful agents representing best-selling authors can earn six-figure incomes, while newer or less established agents may earn significantly less. Income depends on the number and size of deals they close and their experience in the industry.

How to get a job as a literary agent?

To become a literary agent, candidates typically need a strong understanding of the publishing industry, excellent communication skills, and a passion for literature. Many start by gaining experience in publishing, editing, or literary scouting, and some pursue relevant degrees in English, journalism, or related fields. Building a network of industry contacts and understanding submission processes are also important steps in securing a position as a literary agent.

What qualifications do you need to be a literary agent?

To become a literary agent, a bachelor's degree in fields such as English, journalism, or communications is common, along with strong communication, negotiation, and industry knowledge. Experience in publishing, editing, or related fields can be beneficial, and understanding the literary market is essential for success.
More about Literary Agent jobs

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Literary Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Literary Agent job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,339 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Patent Agent/Advisor (Software/AI)

Direct Counsel

Reston, VA • On-site

$125K - $228K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Direct Counsel is seeking a Patent Agent or Patent Advisor to join a leading national firm’s busy patent counseling, prosecution, and litigation practice. This role is available in Boston, Chicago, Denver, New York, Reston, Seattle or Washington, D.C.About the Role

The firm is seeking a highly motivated candidate with substantive industry experience and a degree in software, computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field. The ideal candidate will support attorneys on a wide range of patent matters involving cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Conducting prior art searches for patentability and freedom-to-operate analyses

  • Reviewing and analyzing patents, scientific literature, and technical documents

  • Drafting patent applications and responses to USPTO office actions

  • Advising attorneys on technology issues in preparation for depositions

  • Collaborating with patent attorneys on prosecution, counseling, and litigation support

Qualifications

  • Degree in computer science, software engineering, electrical engineering, or related field

  • Strong technical aptitude and excellent written and verbal communication skills

  • Broad scientific understanding in computer science or electrical engineering

  • Expertise in AI and machine learning strongly preferred

  • Must be eligible to sit for the USPTO registration exam

  • Ability to take initiative, learn quickly, and work effectively in a collaborative environment

  • Law school tuition assistance is available for patent agent candidates

Compensation & Benefits

  • Expected annual salary: $125,000–$228,000
    (Final offer will depend on location, experience, and skillset.)

  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, HSA/FSA options, commuter benefits, life and disability insurance, long-term care coverage, backup care, and parental support resources

  • Firm-paid benefits including generous parental leave, fertility benefits, four weeks of vacation per year, two weeks of sick leave, and 10 paid holidays annually