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Manuscript Reader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HarperCollins Publishers

Editor

Nashville, TN · On-site

Overview Cider Mill Press (a division of Harper Focus) brings fine reading, information, and ... manuscript to bound books. Partnering closely with acquiring editors, content designers, art ...

Inizio Evoke

Senior Proofreader

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

You will be asked to perform a clean read of a manuscript or layout as well as make sure the manuscript or layout matches approved materials or a previous submission. You will also be asked to do a ...

HarperCollins Publishers

Editor

Nashville, TN

Cider Mill Press (a division of Harper Focus) brings fine reading, information, and entertainment ... manuscript to bound books. Partnering closely with acquiring editors, content designers, art ...

Mary Stone Publishing

Novelist Cowriter - Crime Fiction

KY · Remote

$23.56 - $27.40/hr

... readers. This is a long-term remote contract opportunity with ongoing assignments for writers who ... After completion, the manuscript will move through our editorial process, including developmental ...

Whitman College

Archives Assistant

Walla Walla, WA · On-site

$22.18 - $24.79/hr

... manuscript, archival, print, and electronic resources. Refer questions to other archives or library staff as appropriate. * Supervise the Reading Room, providing assistance to archives patrons and ...

Whitman College

Archives Assistant

Walla Walla, WA

$22.18 - $24.79/hr

... manuscript, archival, print, and electronic resources. Refer questions to other archives or library staff as appropriate. * Supervise the Reading Room, providing assistance to archives patrons and ...

Whitman College

Archives Assistant

Walla Walla, WA · On-site

... manuscript, archival, print, and electronic resources. Refer questions to other archives or library staff as appropriate. * Supervise the Reading Room, providing assistance to archives patrons and ...

Whitman College

Archives Assistant

Walla Walla, WA · On-site

$22.18 - $24.79/hr

... manuscript, archival, print, and electronic resources. Refer questions to other archives or library staff as appropriate. * Supervise the Reading Room, providing assistance to archives patrons and ...

Inizio Evoke

Senior Proofreader

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

You will be asked to perform a clean read of a manuscript or layout as well as make sure the manuscript or layout matches approved materials or a previous submission. You will also be asked to do a ...

Truveta

Research Analyst Summer Intern

Seattle, WA · Hybrid

$20/hr

You will also contribute to the development of reusable, "plug-and-play" study and manuscript ... Experience reading and interpreting scientific literature and translating methods into reproducible ...

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All JobsManuscript Reader Jobs

Manuscript Reader information

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$11

$19

$33

How much do manuscript reader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 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 job?

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.

How do you become a manuscript reader?

To become a manuscript reader, typically one needs a strong background in literature, writing, or editing, often demonstrated through a relevant degree or experience. Developing skills in critical analysis, familiarity with publishing standards, and attention to detail are important, and some positions may require knowledge of specific genres or tools like style guides. Gaining experience through internships or freelance editing can also help qualify for such roles.

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.

What jobs pay you to read books?

Manuscript reader positions, often found in publishing houses or literary agencies, pay individuals to read and evaluate books or manuscripts. These roles typically require strong reading skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of literary trends, and may be part-time or full-time jobs with flexible schedules.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Manuscript Reader position, and why are they important?

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 is the job called when you read manuscripts?

A manuscript reader is a person who reviews and evaluates manuscripts, often for publishers, literary agencies, or academic institutions. The role requires strong reading skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of the publishing or academic process.

How much do manuscript readers make?

Manuscript readers typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on their experience, the organization they work for, and whether they are freelance or employed full-time. Some may also be paid per project or manuscript, with rates varying accordingly.
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Manuscript Reader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manuscript Reader job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 79% In-person, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,077 per year, or $19.7 per hour.
Associate Editor, Concordia Commentary Series

Associate Editor, Concordia Commentary Series

Concordia Publishing House

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Production Editor, Level II

Full Time

The Associate Editor, Concordia Commentary Series, carries out all CPH production tasks as assigned by the Concordia Commentary Editor, including copyediting and formatting, with a careful eye toward maintaining professional and CPH standards. This position supports Concordia Commentary Editor by fulfilling all regular and specially assigned duties. Works closely with Concordia Commentary Editor; Production Control; and Design.

Specific duties include:
  • Place electronic files in the commentary template and apply correct style tags, as necessary.
  • Input Greek and Hebrew text, as necessary. Oversee any freelance copyeditor who has been signed up to help with this.
  • Read developed commentary manuscripts for (a) conformity to Scripture and LCMS doctrine; (b) House/commentary style; (c) standard rules of grammar and spelling; (d) clarity of thought and organization; (e) accuracy of facts and sources; (f) placement of artwork, maps, and diagrams, making all changes in the electronic copy of the manuscript.
  • Check accuracy (as time permits) and copyright information of quotes and references.
  • Discuss problems and substantive changes with the Concordia Commentary Editor.
  • Review & act upon author comments to edited manuscript as guided by the Concordia Commentary Editor.
  • Put edited manuscript into electronic layout files.
  • Review page sets to ensure everything is in place and all queries and concerns are resolved.
  • Place marginal icons (as indicated by the Concordia Commentary Editor on pages) in electronic layout files.
  • Make needed changes, including Hebrew and Greek changes, in electronic layout files.
  • Oversee the preparation of the indexes and copyedit them.
  • Check the printer's proof of the commentary body.
The ideal candidate will possess the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:

Knowledge of

  • Scripture and LCMS doctrine and practice
  • Biblical Hebrew and Greek
  • English grammar and usage
  • How to access and utilize reference materials (books, Internet, etc.

Skilled in

  • Writing and editing for clarity
  • Exegetical writing
  • Critical analysis
  • Researching facts and data via reference books and the Internet
  • Checking details
  • Applying grammatical and style rules to existing writing
  • Using Greek and Hebrew fonts

Able to

  • Communicate through the written word
  • Work in a tactful and cooperative manner while meeting deadlines
  • Use desktop publishing software, especially Adobe InDesign
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Power Point, Excel, Outlook)

Education and Experience

  • Master of Divinity Degree (M.Div.) or equivalent from a seminary of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod or a partner seminary
  • Minimum of four years' experience in theological editing and/or writing, preferably in a publishing environment.
  • Must demonstrate knowledge of biblical languages (both Hebrew and Greek).
  • Must demonstrate knowledge of and commitment to LCMS theology.

CPH offers a generous benefits package that can be tailored to your specific needs and well-being.

  • Health benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, Wellness, and Tax-advantaged Savings and Spending Accounts.
  • Life Insurance, Accidental Death, Survivor Death benefits, and Disability Income Protection
  • Generous Paid Time Off policy and Holiday Pay, as well as paid Parental Leave, Christian Mission Trips, and Jury Duty.
  • 403(b) Retirement Savings option with a company match contribution and company contributions to a Pension Plan.
  • Tuition Reimbursement for advanced degrees for yourself and for your children attending an LCMS elementary or high school.
  • A chance to work in a family-friendly environment.

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter.