Manuscript Reader Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Description

PJ Our Way, a program of PJ Library, is seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented Content Associate to support the creation and selection of engaging Jewish middle grade books for children ages 9-12. This role supports every stage of the PJ Our Way book selection process, helping bring exceptional stories to thousands of readers and families around the world. 

By combining project coordination, content management, and administrative support, the Content Associate helps ensure the program delivers a thoughtful, high-quality experience for authors, publishers, volunteers, and readers alike. Working closely with the Chair of the PJ Our Way Book Selection Committee, the Content Associate will coordinate the book selection process from manuscript submission through publication, manage communications with authors and publishers, support committee operations, and contribute to the ongoing success of PJ Our Way's digital content and Kids' Advisory Committee. 

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys children's literature, thrives in a collaborative environment, and excels at managing multiple projects with accuracy and care.

Requirements

Responsibilities

The Content Associate helps ensure the book selection process, digital content, and advisory programs are delivered with excellence. The ideal candidate enjoys bringing order to complex projects, thrives in a collaborative environment, and is energized by connecting children with meaningful Jewish stories.

Support the PJ Our Way Book Selection Committee 

Provide administrative and logistical support to ensure the Book Selection Committee operates efficiently throughout the book review and selection process.

Coordinate committee meetings, including scheduling, agendas, meeting logistics, Zoom coordination, and meeting materials.

Take detailed meeting notes and maintain committee records, documents, and databases.

Order, organize, and ship book samples and finished editions to authors, illustrators, and other stakeholders.

Assist book selection committee members with technology and information needs, including responding to inquiries, locating information, and facilitating access to resources.

Manage the shared submissions inbox and provide ongoing administrative support to the Chair of the Book Selection Committee.

Coordinate the Book Selection Process

Support the workflow for manuscript submissions and book reviews by coordinating communications, tracking progress, and serving as a primary point of contact for authors, publishers, reviewers, and committee members.

Manage manuscript submissions through Submittable, including assigning submissions, tracking reviews, maintaining records, and communicating decisions.

Coordinate review cycles and serve as a liaison among publishers, authors, reviewers, and the Book Selection Committee.

Maintain accurate records throughout the editorial and selection process.

Support Digital Content and Communications

Help keep PJ Our Way's digital presence current, engaging, and well-organized by coordinating monthly content and supporting online communications.

Coordinate monthly website content by assigning, collecting, proofreading, and delivering materials to the web team.

Draft blog posts and other book-related content.

Moderate online comments and reviews while helping maintain the quality and accuracy of the PJ Our Way website.

Lead the Kids' Advisory Committee

Manage the day-to-day operations of the Kids' Advisory Committee, creating a positive and organized experience for participating children and their families.

Coordinate recruitment and selection of advisory committee members.

Manage communications with participating children and their parents or guardians.

Coordinate book mailings, assignments, submissions, and acknowledgements.

Books Team Operations 

Maintain key operational systems and provide administrative support to the Books Team.

Maintain content databases and internal libraries.

Support Salesforce data entry, reporting, and ongoing data quality efforts.

Process invoices and expense reports through Concur.

Support the PJ Library Director of Books with administrative projects and other departmental initiatives as needed.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate is highly organized, proactive, and enjoys bringing structure to complex projects. They are an excellent communicator with strong attention to detail and take pride in producing accurate, high-quality work. They thrive in a collaborative environment, enjoy balancing multiple priorities, and are inspired by PJ Our Way's mission to connect children with Jewish stories that spark curiosity, identity, and a lifelong love of reading.

A genuine interest in children's literature, particularly middle grade books, and an appreciation for Jewish stories and values.

A bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred.

At least one year of administrative experience is preferred, along with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Strong organizational and project management abilities, with the ability to prioritize multiple deadlines.

Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with colleagues, authors, publishers, and volunteers.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Experience with Salesforce, Submittable, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar platforms is a plus.

Physical Requirements

Prolonged periods of sitting while working on a computer. 

Ability to occasionally lift and move up to 15 pounds.

Location

This role is hybrid, with a preference for candidates who can work from our home office in Agawam, MA, where hybrid employees are expected to be onsite 60% of the time. Candidates based in the greater Boston area will also be considered, with the specific hybrid arrangements discussed based on location.

Compensation 

This is a full-time, non-exempt role with a competitive hourly rate of $24.04-$27.64 per hour, equivalent to $50,000-$57,500 annually based on a 40-hour workweek, commensurate with experience.