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Publishing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Impact.com

Publisher Development Manager

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site +1

$100K - $120K/yr

As a Publisher Development Manager, you will be responsible for managing day-to-day interactions with a portfolio of publisher accounts at Impact. You will use strong problem solving and solution ...

Impact.com

Publisher Development Manager

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site +1

$100K - $120K/yr

As a Publisher Development Manager, you will be responsible for managing day-to-day interactions with a portfolio of publisher accounts at Impact. You will use strong problem solving and solution ...

Mattel

Editor - Publishing

El Segundo, CA

The Publishing team creates engaging books and publishing experiences for readers of all ages, extending Mattel's iconic brands-including Barbie, Barney, Fisher-Price, Hot Wheels, Masters of the ...

Mattel

Editor - Publishing

El Segundo, CA · On-site

The Publishing team creates engaging books and publishing experiences for readers of all ages, extending Mattel's iconic brands--including Barbie, Barney, Fisher-Price, Hot Wheels, Masters of the ...

Mattel

Editor - Publishing

El Segundo, CA · On-site

The Publishing team creates engaging books and publishing experiences for readers of all ages, extending Mattel's iconic brands-including Barbie, Barney, Fisher-Price, Hot Wheels, Masters of the ...

Paramount

Designer, Publishing

Los Angeles, CA

$65K - $100K/yr

Paramount Global Publishing is seeking a talented and highly collaborative Designer to join our growing Publishing Design team. This role will support the development of books and publishing ...

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All JobsPublishing JobsPublishing Jobs in California

Publishing information

See California salary details

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$79

How much do publishing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for publishing in California is $41.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.74 and $52.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is publishing?

Publishing is the process of producing and distributing content such as books, magazines, newspapers, or digital media to the public. This industry involves acquiring, editing, designing, printing, marketing, and selling various forms of written or visual media. Publishers work with authors, editors, graphic designers, and marketers to bring content to audiences in print or online formats. The field is constantly evolving with advancements in technology and changes in reader preferences.

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

To thrive in publishing, you need strong writing, editing, and project management skills, often complemented by a degree in English, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with desktop publishing software, content management systems (CMS), and industry-standard tools like Adobe InDesign is highly valuable. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication help professionals excel when collaborating with authors, designers, and marketing teams. These skills and qualities are crucial to producing high-quality, engaging content and ensuring smooth publication processes in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in publishing, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in publishing often encounter tight deadlines, evolving technology, and the need to balance creative vision with market demands. Managing these challenges typically involves strong organizational skills, adaptability to new digital publishing tools, and effective communication with writers, editors, designers, and marketing teams. Building good relationships across departments and keeping updated on industry trends can help publishing professionals navigate these complexities and contribute to successful projects.

What is the difference between Publishing vs Editing?

AspectPublishingEditing
Primary RoleOversees the production and distribution of content, manages publishing processesReviews, revises, and improves content for clarity, accuracy, and style
Required SkillsProject management, knowledge of publishing platforms, communicationStrong editing, language, and proofreading skills
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, media companies, online platformsEditorial offices, media outlets, publishing departments

Publishing involves managing the entire process of bringing content to the public, including production and distribution. Editing focuses on refining and improving content before publication. While both roles require strong communication skills, publishing emphasizes project management, whereas editing centers on content quality. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the publishing industry.

How do I get a job in publishing?

To get a job in publishing, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field, along with strong writing, editing, and communication skills. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and familiarizing oneself with publishing tools like Adobe InDesign or content management systems can improve prospects.

How to get into publishing with no experience?

To enter publishing with no experience, focus on developing strong writing, editing, and communication skills through online courses or internships. Gaining familiarity with industry tools like Adobe InDesign or content management systems can also improve your prospects, and starting with entry-level roles or volunteering can help build relevant experience.

What do you do in a publishing job?

A publishing job involves tasks such as editing and proofreading content, managing the production process, coordinating with authors and designers, and ensuring the final product meets quality standards. It often requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with publishing tools like Adobe InDesign or content management systems. The work environment can vary from editorial offices to digital platforms, with schedules typically aligned to project deadlines.

What kinds of jobs are in publishing?

Jobs in publishing include roles such as editors, writers, graphic designers, proofreaders, and production managers. These positions involve tasks like content creation, editing, designing layouts, and managing publication processes, often requiring skills in specific software like Adobe InDesign or Photoshop.

What are the most commonly searched types of Publishing jobs in California?

The most popular types of Publishing jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Publishing jobs in California?

For Publishing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Publishing jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Publishing jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Publishing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Publishing job openings:

Publishing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Publishing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,095 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Publishing Manager (Books) at Absurd Ventures Santa Monica, CA

Fairweather, LLC

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$80 - $105/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Publishing Manager (Books)

Santa Monica

We are seeking an experienced Publishing Manager to help build and lead the overall strategy and performance of our books publishing imprint, Absurd Ventures Press. In conjunction with an external team of publishing domain experts, this role helps oversee the imprint with direct responsibility for revenue growth, profitability, and the long-term success of the publishing program. The Publishing Manager drives both creative and financial success ensuring that production, design, marketing, and managing editorial teams work effectively toward shared goals. The role requires a blend of strategic vision, commercial acumen, and creative leadership to shape the list's direction.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Help develop imprint strategy, ensuring year-over-year growth in topline revenue and profitability.
  • Work with our publishing partners to oversee the critical path for the imprint program. This includes providing oversight to internal and external teams in Editorial, Managing Editorial, Production, and Art, ensuring alignment, efficiency, and financial discipline.
  • Collaborate with sales, marketing, publicity, subrights, and distribution to deliver profitable titles to market while maintaining strong margins.
  • In conjunction with external publishing partners and the Absurd finance team, help manage financial goals of the program, including budgeting, P&L evaluation, and overall profitability.
  • Represent the publishing program internally and externally, cultivating strong relationships with authors, agents, and industry partners.
  • Manage all stages of each title's print/digital lifecycle, including review of all passes; coordination with production, design, and freelancers; drafting of copy and metadata; and maintenance of reprints/backlist.
  • Work with our external publishing partners to develop relationships with literary agents, authors, illustrators, and other partners.
  • Attend conferences and trade shows as needed and lead internal/external presentations.

Core Qualifications:

  • 5 to 8 years of publishing experience, including progressive leadership responsibility within a publishing house
  • Proven track record of driving revenue growth and profitability
  • Deep understanding of the book publishing market and strong editorial judgment
  • Highly connected network of contacts in publishing ecosystem (agents, retail, media, influencer networks, etc.)
  • Experience working with stakeholders across internal teams and managing external partnerships
  • Demonstrated success in acquisitions and author/agent relations
  • Strong financial and strategic planning skills
  • Excellent communication, collaboration, and leadership abilities
  • A taste for the absurd

The base pay range for this position is $80,000 to $105,000 per year. Actual compensation is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. We also offer a competitive package of benefits including vacation time, sick time, company holidays, parental leave, medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and 401(k) matching to regular full-time employees. Certain roles may also be eligible for bonus and equity.

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