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Literary Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American

Literature Assistant (Student) (FWS)

Campus, IL

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

The Staff Assistant works closely with the Literature Senior Administrative Assistant and department chairs in a variety of day-to-day and programmatic tasks. Essential Functions: * Performing ...

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$10

$29

$55

How much do literary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for literary assistant in the United States is $29.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $48.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a literary assistant?

Literary assistants are professionals who provide administrative and organizational support to literary agents, editors, or publishers. Their duties often include reading and evaluating manuscripts, managing correspondence with authors and clients, scheduling meetings, and handling submissions. Literary assistants help ensure smooth operations within a literary agency or publishing house, serving as a key link between authors and industry professionals. This role is often an entry point for those interested in pursuing a career in publishing or literary representation.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a literary assistant in a publishing agency?

A Literary Assistant in a publishing agency typically manages a variety of tasks such as scheduling meetings, tracking manuscript submissions, and preparing query letters. They often act as the first point of contact for authors and editors, handling correspondence and organizing the agent's calendar. Additionally, Literary Assistants may review incoming manuscripts, provide feedback, and maintain records of contracts and royalties. This role requires excellent organizational and communication skills, as well as the ability to juggle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

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

To thrive as a Literary Assistant, you need excellent written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and a solid background in English, literature, or publishing. Familiarity with manuscript tracking systems, Microsoft Office, and sometimes editorial software like Adobe InDesign or proofreading tools is typically required. Strong organizational abilities, discretion, and a proactive attitude help you manage multiple projects and build relationships with authors and agents. These skills are crucial for efficiently supporting literary agents or editors, ensuring smooth workflow, and contributing to the success of literary projects.

What is the difference between Literary Assistant vs Editorial Assistant?

AspectLiterary AssistantEditorial Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, strong writing and communication skillsBachelor's degree, editing and proofreading skills
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, literary agencies, or literary departmentsPublishing companies, magazines, or publishing departments
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in literary and publishing industriesAcross various publishing sectors including books, magazines, and online media
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in literary publishingUnderstanding roles in editing and publishing

Literary Assistants typically focus on supporting literary agents or publishers with manuscript review, research, and administrative tasks, often in literary agencies or publishing houses. Editorial Assistants handle editing, proofreading, and content preparation for publications. While both roles require strong communication skills and a bachelor's degree, Literary Assistants are more involved in manuscript acquisition and agent support, whereas Editorial Assistants focus on content editing and production processes.

How do you become a literary assistant?

To become a literary assistant, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in English, literature, or a related field, along with strong writing, editing, and organizational skills. Experience in publishing, internships, or familiarity with manuscript review processes can also be beneficial. Some roles may require knowledge of industry tools like Microsoft Office or editing software.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Literary jobs?

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Literary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Literary Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,851 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Literature Assistant (Student) (FWS)

American

Campus, IL

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Work Where You Learn: Build Experience, Grow Skills, and Contribute to Your University Community.This position is available only to enrolled American University students.

Most student positions at American University are eligible to use Federal Work Study (FWS) awards, with a few exceptions. FWS funds cannot be applied to janitorial, construction, partisan or sectarian positions. For information or questions regarding FWS funds, please contact American University's Office of Financial Aid.

Important guidance for current American University employees: American University current employees, including those employed in student positions, must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log intoyour employee Workday accountand select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings. Applying outside of your employee Workday account may cause delays in a hire process.

Department:

College of Arts & Sciences

Time Type:

Part time

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt

Job Description:

Summary:

The Department of Literature is seeking a Federal Work Study student to provide assistance to the department office team. The Staff Assistant works closely with the Literature Senior Administrative Assistant and department chairs in a variety of day-to-day and programmatic tasks.

Essential Functions:

  • Performing general office duties such as photocopying, word processing, and sorting/distributing mail.

  • Greeting visitors, assisting staff/faculty/students with their inquiries, and answering telephone calls.

  • Providing information orally and in writing to persons seeking information.

  • Placing book orders, such as requesting desk copies.

  • Creating flyer and promotional materials in Canva for courses and department events.

  • Assisting with Department of Literature projects and events, including event and catering set up.

  • Creating the department newsletter with information on events, job opportunities, etc.

  • Receiving and keeping records of MFA and MA applications for grad program directors.

  • Performing any additional duties as assigned.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

  • Part-time.

  • 5 hours per week.

Salary Range:

  • 18.40 per hour.

Required Education and Experience:

  • Strong word processing and general computers skills including knowledge of Microsoft Office, Outlook, Excel, and Adobe Acrobat.

  • Strong organizational skills and ability to effectively multi-task.

  • Ability to work independently and to meet deadlines.

  • Ability to communicate effectively.

  • Great attention to detail, including effective proofreading skills.

Preferred Education and Experience:

  • Experience with graphic design programs (such as Adobe or Canva) a plus.

  • Knowledge of the Department of Literature programs is a plus.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications:

  • Additional hours available on an as-needed basis. Scheduled work hours are flexible within the 9-5 business hours.

  • This position is restricted to students with a Federal Work Study award.

  • Please attach a cover letter, resume, and schedule availability when submitting an online application.

  • Department of Literature located in Battelle-Tompkins 237.

Other Details

  • This position is available only to enrolled American University students.

  • Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

  • American University is an E-Verify employer.

  • Visit https://www.american.edu/hr/ for additional information about American University employment and benefits.

Current American University Employees

American University current employees (including those employed in student positions) must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log intoWorkdayand select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings.

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, emailtheworkline@american.edu.

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual's genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.

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