Editorial Assistant, UNSQ Adult Editorial

SUMMARY: The editorial assistant supports the executive editor and editor-at-large at Union Square & Co., whose lists include: narrative nonfiction (memoir, true crime, current events, and self-transformation); and fiction (commercial, literary, thrillers, and romance); as well as illustrated pop culture and gift titles. This opportunity is perfect for an organized self-starter with a curiosity in these subject areas who can think critically about what will excite and intrigue readers.

The editorial assistant will help with all aspects of the publishing process from acquisition to bound book, including day-to-day tasks such as reading submissions and providing feedback; attending editorial and other key meetings as needed; preparing essential paperwork such as contract requests and fact sheets; and tracking important deadlines. In addition to providing administrative support, the editorial assistant will liaise with authors, agents, and various teams and departments across the company; act as the in-house representative for, and conduit to, the editor-at-large, who mostly works offsite; and will have the opportunity to work on a variety of books. Above all, they will be excited to work with both authors and an energized team to make beautiful, smart, cool books that both entertain and inspire.

Duties include:

• Reading proposals and submission manuscripts and providing thoughtful evaluations
• Maintaining a submissions log and drafting rejection letters
• Drafting catalog, jacket, and web copy as well as fact sheets
• Researching comparative sales data and market trends
• Supporting general editorial processes, including proofreading covers and interiors
• Preparing and trafficking essential paperwork, such as P&Ls, term sheets, and contract requests
• Coordinating and creating materials for sales meetings
• Collaborating across all in-house departments (publicity, marketing, sales, production, design, etc.)
• Providing administrative support, including filing expense reports, scheduling meetings, and processing invoices
• Preparing manuscripts for transmittal

• Curiosity and enthusiasm for fiction, narrative nonfiction, and pop culture
• Ability to identify consumer trends through analysis of data and research
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to synthesize information into streamlined copy
• Strong project management skills, including careful attention to detail and timely follow-up, both internally and externally
• Superb organizational skills, as well as an ability to multitask, prioritize, and think proactively in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Creative problem solving, analytic skills, decision-making, and time management
• Flexible hybrid schedule with three days a week in the office
• Bachelor's Degree in a related field
• One to two years of experience in commercial trade book publishing preferred
• Tech savviness and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and Adobe Acrobat Pro