Senior Editor, Science Fiction & Fantasy — Acquisitions Leader

Simon-; New York; Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Saga Press is seeking an Editor or Senior Editor to acquire and edit a dynamic list of science fiction, fantasy, horror, and speculative fiction. The role requires strong editorial judgment, a passion for genre storytelling, and the ability to balance creative ambition with commercial opportunity.

The position may be filled at Editor or Senior Editor level, depending on experience. The candidate will collaborate across departments to position each book for success and nurture author

Qualifications

• 3 years editorial experience for Editor; 5–6 years for Senior Editor.
• Experience acquiring and editing adult fiction; sci-fi, fantasy, horror, or speculative fiction preferred.
• Strong knowledge of the genre marketplace, including established authors and emerging voices.
• Excellent editorial judgment with ability to balance creative and commercial potential.
• Exceptional written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong author- and agent-relationship management skills.
• Ability to articulate a clear publishing vision and build cross-departmental support.
• Highly organized and able to manage multiple books and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Acquire and edit science fiction, fantasy, horror, and speculative fiction titles.
• Identify new authors, emerging voices, trends, and opportunities in the marketplace.
• Evaluate proposals and manuscripts and present acquisition recommendations including positioning and readership.
• Develop and maintain relationships with authors, literary agents, scouts, and others in the publishing community.
• Provide editorial feedback from acquisition through final manuscript.
• Serve as primary contact for authors with clear communication and strategic guidance.
• Create persuasive title information and internal presentations for acquisitions.
• Partner with publicity, marketing, art, production, and managing editorial teams on strategies.
• Advocate for titles through publication lifecycle and build enthusiasm among stakeholders.
• Participate in cover development, title positioning, and launch planning.
• Manage publication schedules, manuscript delivery, and editorial priorities across projects.
• Monitor consumer behavior, market trends, and genre conversations to inform strategy.
• Contribute to Saga Press identity, growth, and strategic direction.

Skills

Editorial judgment

Author-relationship management

Communication skills

Organization

Collaboration

Job description

Saga Press is seeking an Editor or Senior Editor to acquire and edit a dynamic list of science fiction, fantasy, horror, and speculative fiction. The role requires strong editorial judgment, a passion for genre storytelling, and the ability to balance creative ambition with commercial opportunity.

The position may be filled at Editor or Senior Editor level, depending on experience. The candidate will collaborate across departments to position each book for success and nurture author