Editorial Assistant / Assistant Editor [1]
The New Press seeks an Editorial Assistant or Assistant Editor to support the Associate Editorial Director and the Executive Director. This is an exciting opportunity to work on serious nonfiction book projects from acquisition through publication. The Assistant focuses primarily on projects acquired by the direct supervisors, but also works closely with all departments in the organization. Evaluating and responding to submissions, supporting work flow around the press’s seasonal lists, and managing administrative duties for weekly editorial meetings are also important aspects of this job. The person in this role must be comfortable working independently and collaboratively. It is a key position that requires initiative and critical thinking, and comes with substantial responsibility and room for growth.
Responsibilities:
- Read and track edits in manuscripts acquired by the Executive Director and Associate Editorial Director
- Transmit manuscripts to the Managing Editor for production according to in-house procedures
- Prepare blurb solicitation letters and finished book letters; mail galleys and finished books
- Read and evaluate proposals and manuscripts, track submission correspondence, and prepare editorial memos
- Correspond as needed with authors and/or their representatives
- Track contracts and advances
- Prepare materials and take minutes for editorial meetings
- Draft catalogue copy, jacket copy, and marketing tip sheets
- Provide support to the Executive Director in all areas of organizational management, which includes being an informed representative of the Executive Director at in-house meetings
- General administrative tasks include but are not limited to: handling email and print correspondence, and phone calls and messages; collaborating on travel arrangements; photocopying, database upkeep, and filing; arranging payment of occasional bills and monthly submission of credit card receipts
Qualifications and Experience
The ideal candidate will have:
- A Bachelor’s degree, at least 18 months of publishing experience, and an interest in/exposure to some of the fields in which the Executive Director and Associate Editorial Director acquire books (law and justice, progressive education, race, gender, cultural studies, primary source documents, popular economics)
- An interest in and commitment to the ideals of The New Press, a not-for-profit, public interest publisher
- Excellent written and oral presentation; a collegial demeanor and strong interpersonal skills
- Accuracy and attention to detail
- Exceptional organizational skills, diplomacy, pro-activeness and initiative, and a high energy level
- An ability to juggle multiple projects, provide status updates, and (with time) anticipate needs
- A propensity to meet deadlines
- Ample experience with MS Office (including Excel) and a general facility with digital/tech matters
- Fluency in one or more foreign languages (a plus)
How To Apply
Please e-mail your resume, a thoughtful cover letter, and salary requirement to careers@thenewpress.com [2]. It is important that you reference the title of this position (Editorial Assistant / Assistant Editor) in the subject line. A writing sample will be required for candidates invited to interview. Submissions without thoughtful cover letters will not be considered.
No phone calls, please!
We offer a competitive salary and benefits, as well as excellent working conditions. Full-time employees have immediate access to comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, 401(k), etc.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
The New Press is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
The New Press is affiliated with the Technical, Office and Professional (TOP) Union,
Local 2110 UAW, AFL-CIO; this position is covered in the bargaining unit.