Editorial Assistant - Kwame Alexander Books

About the Role

We are in search of a creative and proactive Editorial Assistant to join the Kwame Alexander Books imprint at Sourcebooks. This imprint focuses on nurturing the next generation of thoughtful young readers through stories emphasizing creativity, community, and resilience. This position offers the chance to work on children’s books ranging from picture books to YA, as well as select adult fiction and nonfiction titles.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in editorial tasks such as reading and assessing manuscripts during submission and post-contract stages.
• Contribute to the preparation of acquisitions-related materials including market research, sales analysis, acquisition memos, and initial contract documentation.
• Collaborate with design, editorial, marketing, and production teams to ensure efficient project management from inception to publication.
• Compose various book-related copy such as title sheets, descriptions, marketing copy, catalog entries, and sales points, and manage reprint corrections and market positioning research.
• Handle administrative duties like scheduling meetings, managing expenses, processing invoices, and maintaining publishing schedules and pipeline tracking.
• Update author files, manage contract paperwork and copies, and maintain accurate online metadata for current, upcoming, and backlist titles.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with internal teams, authors, illustrators, and other external collaborators.
• Stay up to date with trends in children’s literature as well as emerging technologies and platforms in publishing.

Candidate Profile

• A college degree or an equivalent background gained through relevant work or internships.
• A genuine enthusiasm for children’s literature and a strong understanding of the market, combined with a keen interest in the publishing business.
• An entrepreneurial mindset, demonstrating initiative, leadership qualities, and a desire for professional growth in book and product development.
• Ability to prioritize tasks effectively under pressure while managing multiple responsibilities with attention to detail, organization, patience, and flexibility.
• Self-driven and solution-oriented with excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Familiarity with the book production process from concept through publication is highly advantageous.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint); experience with Airtable, Canva, Illustrator, InDesign, or Procreate is beneficial but not mandatory.
• A collaborative and positive approach that fits well within a friendly, hardworking team environment.

Compensation and Work Location

This role is a non-exempt, salaried position with hourly pay ranging from $22 to $25, based on experience, location, and relevant qualifications. Work arrangements include hybrid or fully remote options from New York or Naperville, Illinois, and fully remote status for residents of certain U.S. states.

Additional Information

Full-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, health and dependent care flexible spending accounts, a health savings account, 401(k), disability insurance, life insurance, and paid time off. Sourcebooks is committed to diversity and equal opportunity in its workforce.

Application Details

Candidates are requested to submit a resume, cover letter demonstrating relevant experience and interest, and salary expectations. Applications lacking a cover letter will not be reviewed.