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Manuscript Reader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Utah

Post Doc Res Assoc

Campus, IL

The ideal candidate will have strong skills in conducting literature reviews, manuscript planning ... to proof reading and quality control of all components of grant application submissions ...

University of Utah

Post Doc Res Assoc

Campus, IL · On-site

The ideal candidate will have strong skills in conducting literature reviews, manuscript planning ... to proof reading and quality control of all components of grant application submissions ...

University of Utah

Post Doc Res Assoc

Campus, IL · On-site

The ideal candidate will have strong skills in conducting literature reviews, manuscript planning ... to proof reading and quality control of all components of grant application submissions ...

Cedars Sinai

Research Intern

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

... manuscript development. The fellow may also participate in research meetings, clinical case ... Read and critically evaluate community-partnered and clinical research. * Conduct literature ...

Cedars Sinai

Research Intern

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

... manuscript development. The fellow may also participate in research meetings, clinical case ... Read and critically evaluate community-partnered and clinical research. * Conduct literature ...

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How much do manuscript reader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 is a manuscript reader?

A Manuscript Reader evaluates unpublished manuscripts for literary agents, publishers, or publications. They assess writing quality, marketability, and overall storytelling, providing feedback or recommendations. Their insights help determine whether a manuscript should be pursued for publication or revision. Readers usually work freelance or as part of a publishing team, requiring strong analytical and literary skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manuscript reader?

A Manuscript Reader thrives with strong analytical reading abilities, excellent written communication skills, and a keen eye for detail, usually with a background in literature, publishing, or a related field. Familiarity with manuscript tracking systems and editorial software like Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat is often expected. Soft skills such as time management, professional discretion, and openness to diverse genres make a candidate stand out. These qualities ensure precise, constructive feedback and efficient processing of high manuscript volumes, critical for supporting the editorial decision-making process.

What are some typical challenges a manuscript reader faces in their day-to-day work?

Manuscript Readers often handle a large volume of submissions, requiring strong organizational and time-management skills to meet tight deadlines. Distinguishing high-potential work from less promising manuscripts can be challenging, especially when evaluating pieces across diverse genres or formats. Collaborating closely with editors and authors is also common, and the ability to provide clear, constructive feedback is crucial. Staying objective and consistent in evaluations, despite personal preferences, is key to maintaining fairness and editorial standards in the publication process.

How do you become a manuscript reader?

To become a manuscript reader, typically one needs a strong background in literature or writing, often demonstrated through a degree in English, literature, or a related field. Experience with editing, critical reading skills, and familiarity with publishing processes are also valuable, and some positions may require knowledge of specific genres or styles.

How much do manuscript readers make?

Manuscript readers typically earn between $10 and $25 per hour, depending on their experience, the organization, and whether they work freelance or full-time. Some may also be paid per project or word count, especially in freelance roles, with annual salaries ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 for full-time positions.
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Manuscript Reader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manuscript Reader job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 64% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 72% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,077 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Processing Assistant II, Historical Manuscripts & Archives

Hattiesburg, MS • On-site

University of Southern Mississippi
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

443rd of 627 rated colleges and universities

Great coworkers

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Learn more about University of Southern Mississippiexternal

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Special Instructions to Applicants
Review of applications will begin two weeks after posting and will continue until position is filled.  Please attach cover letter and transcripts to application packet.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in theUnited States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. TheUniversity will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
Job Summary 
Arranges and describes manuscript collections under the direction of theAssistant Curator, Historical Manuscripts. Conducts research onbiography/history of donor/donating organization. Contributes, expertly searches andretrieves records from several complex archival and library systems such as ArchivesSpace,Preservica, LibApps, and Alma.Communicates with donors as required. Provides reference service for patrons inthe Cleanth Brooks Reading room.
PrimaryJob Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Arranges manuscript collections in accordance with accepted archival principles of provenance and original order. Develops processing plan in collaboration with the Assistant Curator. Identifies and maintains record series. Imposes order as needed. Identifies and sequesters confidential materials in the manuscript collections to ensure that access restriction procedures are followed; weeds non-record materials; separates and intellectually links resolves routine problems, identifies and refer complex problems to supervisor. Compiles monthly progress reports.
  2. Describes manuscript collections in accordance with accepted archival practice. Creates objective, pertinent, and concise finding aids for the collections, including traditional and online EAD-compliant finding aids utilizing ArchivesSpace. Researches donor or donating organization to write biographical or historical entries in finding aid. Communicates with donors as appropriate to gather information on the collection.
  3. Provides reference service for patrons in the Cleanth Brooks Reading room. Records statistics in LibApps.
  4. Provide reference service for patrons in the Cleanth Brooks Reading Room. Track orders for digital images. Submit digitization requests to the Digital Lab. Obtain patron's and curator's signatures on Intent to Publish form. Calculate payment based on fee schedule. Invoice patron, accept payment, and submit invoice with payment to Special Collections Specialist.
  5. Assist in environmental monitoring of the storage and conservation areas.
  6. Completes special projects and other duties including but not limited to assisting in the shifting to materials and with special events.  Participates in University Library committees and groups.

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