At a Glance
- Tasks: Edit and prepare children's books for publication, collaborating with authors and teams.
- Company: Join Simon & Schuster UK, a leader in children's publishing.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £30,000 and work with top authors and illustrators.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to equal opportunities for all.
- Why this job: Make a difference in children's literature while honing your editorial skills.
- Qualifications: Passion for children's books and experience in editing required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Job Description
Responsibilities:
- Take books from manuscript delivery to printer‑ready files, including structural and line editing, proofreading, and liaising with authors, agents and freelancers.
- Coordinate with the production and design departments to ensure that projects are delivered within deadlines.
- Liaise with marketing, PR and sales teams on campaign plans, positioning and championing authors and titles in and out of house.
- Write and review copy on jackets, ensuring quality, clarity and consistency following the company style guide.
- Ensure accuracy and quality of metadata and coding on title management systems, and help create AI and catalogue copy.
- Prepare acquisition documentation, including P&Ls and deal memos, as required.
- Read and report on submissions, contribute to brainstorms and discussions on new acquisitions, and participate in potential commission activity.
Qualifications:
- Proven passion for children’s books, with experience in an editorial role in children’s fiction or general book editing.
- Excellent editorial skills with a forensic eye for detail and demonstrable experience of taking multiple titles through the full editorial process.
- Motivated, committed, creative, flexible individual with strong communication, project management, organisational and time‑management skills.
- Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment and manage multiple schedules.
- Knowledge of the children’s fiction market is beneficial.
Benefits:
- Starting salary of £30,000.
- Opportunity to work with leading authors and illustrators across adult and children’s imprints.
Please apply by attaching your CV and cover letter. Unfortunately, Simon & Schuster UK cannot accept applications from candidates without a legal right to work in the UK or who require visa sponsorship. Right to work checks are carried out on candidates who make it to offer stage. Simon & Schuster UK is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, colour, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity and gender expression. At Simon & Schuster UK, the spirit of inclusion feeds into everything that we do, we believe that opportunity, access, resources and rewards should be available to and for the benefit of all.
Assistant Editor / Editor, Children's Publishing Division employer: Simon-
At Simon & Schuster UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration in the heart of London. Our employees enjoy competitive salaries, the opportunity to work with renowned authors and illustrators, and a commitment to professional growth through diverse projects in children's publishing. We champion inclusivity and provide a supportive environment where every team member can thrive and contribute to meaningful storytelling.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Editor / Editor, Children's Publishing Division
✨Dive Into the Publishing Community
Get involved with local or online publishing communities. Join forums, attend literary festivals, or participate in panel discussions. This can be a goldmine for meeting industry professionals and hearing about opportunities that aren't advertised yet.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow leading publishing media channels on social media, like Twitter and Instagram. See what tactics and content formats are currently trending. This knowledge can help you tailor your discussions when you're networking or at interviews with companies like Simon-.
✨Make Your Passion Visible
If you have a blog or a social media presence focused on books or publishing, use it! Share your thoughts on recent publications, trends in the industry, or interviews with authors. This can showcase your passion and knowledge, making you stand out as a candidate.
✨Hunt for Opportunities on Company Websites
While job boards are useful, don’t forget to go directly to company websites, like Simon-. They often post openings there first. Plus, you might find job descriptions that give insight into what skills they really value, which can help you ace that interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Editor / Editor, Children's Publishing Division
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Writing Style:In the publishing-media world, your writing style is your signature. Make sure your CV highlights relevant writing experiences, whether that's published articles, blog posts, or even social media content. Give us a glimpse of your voice and flair for storytelling right from the start!
Include Relevant Projects:Don’t just list your roles; include specific projects you've worked on that demonstrate your skills in editing, research, or content creation. If you've contributed to a magazine or worked on a publication, make that front and centre! It shows you've got hands-on experience in the industry, which we absolutely love.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Let’s be honest: a generic cover letter is a missed opportunity. Take the time to craft a letter that speaks to why you’re passionate about this role at Simon-. Mention what excites you about the publishing-media industry and how your skills align with the job description. We want to see that enthusiasm!
Format Matters!:In the publishing-media sector, presentation is key. Ensure your CV and cover letter are well-organised and visually appealing. Use headings, bullet points, and a clean layout. This isn't just about aesthetics — it shows your attention to detail and professionalism, which we really appreciate at Simon-.
How to prepare for a job interview at Simon-
✨Know Your Stuff: Be Ready on Industry Trends
Get yourself clued up on the latest trends in the publishing-media world. Think about how digital transformation is impacting the industry, and be ready to chat about relevant examples. This shows you're not just passionate but also informed!
✨Showcase Your Creativity with a Portfolio
Bring along a portfolio that showcases your writing, editing, or design work. Since it’s a full-time role, they’ll want to see how your style fits their brand at Simon-. Tailor your presentation to their projects for maximum impact.
✨Brush Up on Editing Techniques
Expect some technical questions about editing styles, proofing techniques, and style guides. They might ask you to solve a practical problem or provide feedback on a piece—know the tools and software commonly used in the industry, and be prepared to discuss them!
✨Express Your Passion for Storytelling
In the publishing-media field, storytelling is key. Be ready to discuss what stories inspire you and why you want to join the team at Simon-. Let your enthusiasm shine through; they want to know you're genuinely interested in contributing to their narratives!
