Designer, Young Adult Covers Team - Random House Children's Books

The Random House Children’s Books young adult covers team is seeking a highly motivated, skilled individual with a desire to learn and contribute to the team in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. They will work on YA covers across all RHCB’s imprints, executing all phases of cover and jacket making from concept through final art, mechanicals, and prepress. They will also support the Art Director and other team members as needed. 

  

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:  

1. Work collaboratively with Art Director, Publishers, and Editors to develop covers and support the publishing programs overall 

1. Responsible for effective, high-quality design of and sales materials for assigned titles from concept to final art to print-ready PDFs using creativity, resourcefulness, and understanding of goals 

1. Support the art director and other designers with all aspects of cover design as needed 

1. Research illustrators, designers, photographers, stock, and/or type. Present appropriate samples and pitch vision in meetings 

1. Art direct illustrators, photographers, and/or freelance designers from initial concept and sketch development through revisions, to final art for covers of assigned titles 

1. Prepare jacket and cover mechanicals for routing, approvals, and release to production per printing standards, with attention to detail, and in a timely manner to maintain schedules and meet deadlines 

1. Problem-solve with sensitivity and self-awareness 

1. Track cover design trends in YA space with an eye toward setting new trends 

1. Develop and maintain cultural competence to ensure stories about people from marginalized backgrounds are represented sensitively and authentically  

1. Communicate clearly, professionally, and courteously with all internal and external contacts 

1. Attend and participate in production, cover, team, and title-specific meetings 

1. Participate in DEI initiatives 

1. Perform other related duties as assigned  

  

Please apply if you meet the following minimum requirements:  

• 3+ years in a publishing or editorial design role 

• Strong knowledge of Adobe Suite’s current InDesign and Photoshop programs and at least basic understanding of Adobe Suite’s Illustrator and Acrobat programs 

• Portfolio showcasing inventive book cover design and typography 

• Highly organized, able to handle multiple tasks, to prioritize and manage time efficiently 

• Strong attention to detail, quality and process 

• Willingness to take on responsibilities and an ability to ask for support or help 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and a desire to learn and work collaboratively 

• Deep interest in YA books 

 

Preferred qualifications include:  

• Experience with pre-press, 1-color, and 4-color printing processes, and PDF workflow  

• Advanced retouching and/or photo composite skills