Editorial Assistant - Kwame Alexander Books in Naperville, Illinois at Sourcebooks

We are seeking a dynamic and imaginative Editorial Assistant to support the newest imprint at Sourcebooks, Kwame Alexander Books, whose list is rooted in the belief that books can help shape the next generation of thoughtful young readers and leaders through stories that center creativity, community, and resilience.

Our ideal candidate loves and is knowledgeable about the current market, has superior interpersonal and written communication skills, and a desire to learn both the art of book making and the business of book publishing. We are especially looking for someone who has a passion for children’s books from picture books up through YA, though this role will also assist on a select list of adult fiction and nonfiction titles as well. You’ll be part of a dynamic, innovative team that will draw upon your organizational skills, attention to detail, ability to analyze data, creative thinking, and eye for storytelling.

This is a non-exempt salaried position with a range of $22.00 - $25.00/hourly. We determine starting pay based on a thorough evaluation of job-related factors, including geographic location, market conditions, relevant experience, training, and education. This process ensures a fair and competitive salary that aligns with both the company and the candidate’s qualifications.

The location for this position can be hybrid or remote in New York or Naperville, Illinois or remote based in any of the following states: Arizona, Connecticut, Illinois, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin.

What You’ll Do:

• Provide editorial support including reading and evaluating manuscripts both on submission and under contract. Assist with preparation of acquisitions materials, including sales and competitive title research, acquisitions memos, and drafting contract paperwork.
• Work closely with design, managing editorial, marketing, and production teams to ensure the smooth execution of book projects from concept to publication.
• Draft book copy, including title sheets, flap description, selling copy, catalog copy, and selling points. Conduct positioning research and handle reprint corrections.
• Provide administrative support including scheduling meetings, processing expense reports, payments, and invoices. Maintain pipeline grids and upcoming deadlines.
• Update author files, handle paperwork for and track book contracts, order contract copies, and update online metadata fields (descriptions, bios, reviews, etc.) for current, forthcoming, and backlist titles.
• Create positive and collaborative relationships with internal teams as well as authors, illustrators, and other external partners.
• Stay informed about current trends and developments in children’s books, as well as emerging technologies and platforms in the publishing industry.

What You Bring:

• A college degree and/or equivalent work or internship experience.
• A passion for children’s books, knowledge of the marketplace, and keen interest in learning about the business of publishing.
• An entrepreneurial spirit, exhibiting initiative, leadership, and a strong desire to grow in book and product development.
• Proven ability to set priorities under pressure and multi-task; must be highly organized, flexible, patient, and detail oriented.
• Must be an efficient, self-motivated, proactive problem-solver with excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of book production processes from conception to publication will be a strong asset in this role.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Excel, and PowerPoint. Airtable, Canva, Illustrator, InDesign, or Procreate a plus but not necessary.
• A positive attitude that will gel with our friendly, hardworking, collaborative team.