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Manuscript Reader Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Manuscript Reader information

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$11

$19

$33

How much do manuscript reader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for manuscript reader in Virginia is $19.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $21.44 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A Manuscript Reader evaluates unpublished manuscripts for literary agents, publishers, or publications.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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manuscript Reader jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Manuscript Reader jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Manuscript Reader jobs in Virginia?

For Manuscript Reader jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Manuscript Reader jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Manuscript Reader jobs in Virginia are:

Manuscript Reader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manuscript Reader job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,725 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

SE Rare Books & Archives Assistant

University of Richmond

Richmond, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago

University Of Richmond rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

410th of 619 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Title

BAARB Student Assistants help in the preservation and care of Boatwright Library's distinctive collections in the Galvin Rare Book Room and Archives by working with rare books and historical manuscript materials. This work may include processing and filing collections, data entry, transcription of historical materials, shelving items, and assisting with research requests.

Specific duties include:

  • Process gift book donations for review and possible retention, and creates bibliographies of donated materials.
  • Provide data entry of collection information and related metadata.
  • Process collections of historical materials, following guidelines, directions, and best practices in handling items.
  • Help with inventories, shelf reading, identifying preservation concerns, and preparing materials for exhibits.
  • May assist with transcribing historical materials.
  • May provide research assistance as needed for internal and/or external requests.

Qualifications:

  • Accurate, detail oriented with dependable work habits.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Flexible and able to multi-task.
  • Knowledge of MS Word, basic computer skills.
  • Works individually with little supervision.
  • Works hours are Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Skills, knowledge, complexity:

  • Computer skills.
  • Familiarity with library call numbers and shelving organization.
  • Ability to perform moderately complex tasks requiring training.
  • Attention to detail and accurate work.
  • Ability to be flexible with duties assigned.

Decision-making, initiative, accountability:

  • Moderate to high decision-making ability.
  • Moderate to high initiative.
  • High accountability in all phases of assigned duties.
  • Work is performed within established procedures and policies and under supervision.
  • Non-routine problems and decisions referred to supervisor.

An ideal candidate needs to be able to work independently with a minimum amount of direction and be able to prioritize tasks. They need to exercise good judgment and know when to ask questions of staff before making decisions.

Note to Applicant:

This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by his/her supervisor.

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About University of Richmond

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The University of Richmond is a private university located just a short drive from downtown Richmond, Virginia. Through its five schools and wide array of campus programming, the University combines the best qualities of a small liberal arts college and a large university. With nearly 4,000 students, an 8:1 student-faculty ratio, and more than 90% of traditional undergraduate students living on campus, the University is remarkably student-centered, focused on preparing students "to live lives of purpose, thoughtful inquiry, and responsible leadership in a global and pluralistic society."

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Richmond, VA, US

Year founded

1830

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