Assistant Editor

At Union Square & Co. our mission is to publish books and products with a point of view. We promote excellence in contemporary book publishing and honor the vision of our creators by providing best-in-class editorial and design paired with the highest quality production, sales, and marketing.

Established in 2022, our inaugural list highlighted our dedication to talent-driven publishing for adults and children. That same year we welcomed two new businesses to the family: Knock Knock and Em & Friends, known for their innovative gift and stationery products, and Boxer Books, known for its commitment to picture books for young children.

Union Square & Co. is a subsidiary of Sterling Publishing Co., Inc, a publisher with a history that spans more than 70 years and a proud member of the Barnes & Noble family. Across its affiliates, the publisher has a title base of approximately 14,500 print and eBook titles, and distributes approximately 1,100 titles on behalf of client publishers.

We are seeking an assistant editor to support two editors whose lists include: Adult fiction, ranging from commercial and literary fiction to thrillers and romance; and narrative nonfiction, ranging from memoir to current events and popular history; as well as some select pop culture titles. This opportunity is perfect for a self-starter with a curiosity in these subject areas who can think critically about what will excite and intrigue readers. The Assistant Editor 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 title information sheets; and tracking important deadlines.

This is a hybrid role requiring 2-3 days/week in our NYC headquarters.

An employee in this position can expect an hourly starting rate of $27 depending on experience, seniority, geographic locations, and other factors permitted by law.

What You Do

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 title information 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, deal memos, 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

Knowledge & Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in a related field
Minimum of 2 years experience in commercial trade book publishing
Tech savviness and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and Adobe Acrobat Pro
Curiosity and enthusiasm for fiction, narrative nonfiction, and current events
Ability to identify consumer trends through analysis of data and research
Excellent writing 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, decision-making, and time management