Editorial Assistant - Children's Books & Ready-to-Read

Simon & Schuster; New York; Hybrid; USD 38,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Simon & Schuster is seeking an organized Editorial Assistant to support the Simon Spotlight editorial team. This entry-level role helps bring children’s books from concept to publication, with hands-on experience in manuscript review, catalog copy, and cross-department collaboration.

The ideal candidate shows strong writing and organizational skills, attention to detail, and an interest in creating engaging books for beginning readers and licensed properties.

Qualifications

• Strong writing, proofreading, and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects.
• Collaborative approach and willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced imprint.
• Experience with MS Office suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) is preferred.
• Interest in children’s publishing, licensing, and branding is a plus.
• Internship, administrative, bookselling, library, or related experience helpful but not required.

Responsibilities

• Provide administrative support to the editorial team, including scheduling meetings and organizing files.
• Enter and maintain title information in internal systems and meet deadlines.
• Assist with manuscript reviews, layouts, and proofs for accuracy and age-appropriate language.
• Draft and edit catalog, cover, and online copy under editorial guidance; write select manuscripts in-house.
• Track manuscripts and materials through the editorial process and help keep projects on schedule.
• Coordinate submissions to licensing partners and track feedback and approvals.
• Communicate with authors, illustrators, agents, and licensing partners as directed.
• Collaborate with design, production, editorial, marketing, and sales teams to support schedules.
• Prepare materials for editorial meetings, seasonal presentations, and sales conferences.
• Research children’s books, brands, and market trends; contribute ideas for new projects.

Skills

Strong writing

Proofreading

Organizational skills

Verbal communication

Attention to detail

Time management

Collaboration

Initiative

Tools

Microsoft Word

Excel

Outlook

PowerPoint

Job description

Simon & Schuster is seeking an organized Editorial Assistant to support the Simon Spotlight editorial team. This entry-level role helps bring children’s books from concept to publication, with hands-on experience in manuscript review, catalog copy, and cross-department collaboration.

The ideal candidate shows strong writing and organizational skills, attention to detail, and an interest in creating engaging books for beginning readers and licensed properties.