At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare stunning book cover artwork for print and support our award-winning art department.
- Company: Join Canongate Books, a leading independent publisher and B Corp certified.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, employee benefits, and a creative work environment.
- Other info: Great opportunity for growth in a busy, supportive atmosphere.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that values creativity and storytelling in publishing.
- Qualifications: Strong skills in Adobe Creative Suite and a keen eye for detail are essential.
The predicted salary is between 25500 - 25500 £ per year.
Salary: £25,500
Location: Edinburgh
Prepare book cover artwork for print and help maintain the systems and workflows behind an award-winning publishing art department. Canongate Books is one of the UK’s leading independent publishers and the first UK trade publisher to be B Corp certified. We’re looking for an enthusiastic and hard-working Artworker to join our busy award-winning Art department. The role is a full-time one-year contract and is based in our Edinburgh office.
You do not need to have worked in publishing before, but a keen eye for detail along with exceptional organisational skills are a must. A love of books, culture and storytelling would also be an advantage. This is a very busy role where the ability to juggle priorities and multiple deadlines whilst working accurately and creatively is an essential skill. Please note this role does not include responsibility for cover design.
The Artworker’s key role is to accurately prepare covers ready for Press and help with the upkeep of the department’s systems to ensure everything runs smoothly and withholds to our culture of excellence.
Core Duties include:
- Prepare artwork for approved covers and reformat pre-existing designs for circulation and press, ensuring a high level of finish and meeting the required standards for print
- Compositing images within Photoshop/Illustrator and laying out images and text in InDesign
- Set up any special finishes e.g. foil, embossing, spot varnish
- Ensure artwork is consistent, accurate and follows any style or series guidelines
- Update and maintain templates and workflow documents including the design archive and font system
- Management and upkeep of the relevant Biblio data for all titles
- Ensure contracts are maintained and license images when needed
- Provide files to relevant departments as requested
- Management and upkeep of the department fonts system
- Attend weekly meetings
What knowledge, skills, experience we are looking for:
- A methodical approach to work and meticulous attention to detail
- Exceptional organisational skills with the ability to respond flexibly whilst working on multiple projects and shifting priorities within a busy department
- Strong communication skills to engage with colleagues at every level as well as out-of-house freelancers
- Strong knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator and Adobe Acrobat are essential) plus Microsoft Word and general confidence working on a Mac
- Strong layout and typographical skills and knowledge of fonts
- Portfolio demonstrating high standard art working experience
- Some understanding of the print processes
- Proactive mindset with a willingness to learn and develop
- Creative flair with a versatile design sensibility
- Good problem-solving skills and the ability to know when to ask for help when needed and follow direction from other colleagues, such as designers, editors and the Production team
We offer a wide range of benefits: Employee benefits (canongate.co.uk)
To apply, please send your CV, covering letter and a mini portfolio showing three samples of your best work.
PLEASE NOTE:
Canongate is committed to the principle of equal opportunity in employment and its employment policies for recruitment are designed to ensure that no job applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender re-assignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity/paternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.
Due to the high volume of applications we receive we are unable to respond to everyone. If you have not heard from us within 2 weeks of the closing date, then unfortunately you have not been shortlisted for the position. We will keep your information securely until 30 August 2026. Unless you are the successful applicant, all your information will be deleted from our systems at that point.
We welcome and encourage applications from candidates who are under-represented in the creative industries.
Please make sure that you state in your application that you found this role via Creative Access.
Artworker & Studio Assistant: Book Cover Prep & Print employer: Hachette UK
Canongate Books is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of Edinburgh, where creativity and passion for storytelling thrive. As a B Corp certified independent publisher, we prioritise employee growth and well-being, providing a supportive environment that encourages collaboration and innovation. With a commitment to excellence and a diverse range of benefits, joining our award-winning Art department means being part of a team that values your contributions and fosters your professional development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Artworker & Studio Assistant: Book Cover Prep & Print
✨Tip Number 1
Get your portfolio in tip-top shape! Make sure it showcases your best work, especially anything that highlights your skills in Adobe Creative Suite. We want to see your creativity and attention to detail shine through!
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the publishing industry, attend events, or join online groups. Building connections can open doors for us and help you learn more about the role and company culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching Canongate Books and their recent projects. Show us that you’re not just passionate about the role but also about the company’s mission and values. It’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to follow the application process as outlined.
We think you need these skills to ace Artworker & Studio Assistant: Book Cover Prep & Print
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:Make sure your CV highlights your experience with Adobe Creative Suite and any relevant projects. We want to see your best work, so don’t hold back on showcasing your portfolio!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for books and the creative process. Let us know why you’re excited about this role and how your skills align with what we’re looking for.
Be Organised:Since this role involves juggling multiple projects, demonstrate your organisational skills in your application. Mention any tools or methods you use to keep track of your tasks and deadlines.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hachette UK
✨Know Your Software
Make sure you're well-versed in Adobe Creative Suite, especially Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator. Brush up on your skills before the interview, and be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in your previous work or projects.
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
Bring along a mini portfolio showcasing three of your best works. Highlight pieces that demonstrate your attention to detail and understanding of print processes. Be prepared to explain your creative choices and how they align with the role.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
Since this role requires juggling multiple projects, think of examples from your past where you successfully managed competing deadlines. Share specific strategies you used to stay organised and ensure high-quality output.
✨Engage with the Team
Prepare to discuss how you would communicate and collaborate with colleagues and freelancers. Show enthusiasm for teamwork and be ready to share how you handle feedback and direction from others in a busy environment.
