Assistant Editor, Workman Kids

SUMMARY:

Workman Kids (WK) is seeking an Assistant Editor who is passionate about children’s book publishing in the commercial novelty, activity, and gift space (including novelty board books, sticker books, craft/drawing books, puzzle books, unique formats, and more). The Assistant Editor will work across the list as well as provide editorial and administrative support to the novelty, activity and gift team.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Traffic editorial projects through all stages of the editorial process from acquisition through final book.
• Prepare materials (including acquisition memos, P&Ls, and comp research) for acquisition meetings.
• Brainstorm and develop IP novelty, activity, and gift projects.
• Test crafts and puzzles for clarity of instructions and solvability.
• Read, report on, log, track, and respond to submissions of manuscripts and proposals from agents and authors.
• Interact professionally with authors and agents, as well as internal departments within WK and HBG, including design, publicity, marketing, production, sales. 
• Enter title data into database systems and maintain data throughout publishing process.
• Write descriptive copy and fact sheets that will be used to introduce books to the sales and marketing departments.
• Draft and circulate contract forms.
• Research book sales and comp titles using internal and external databases.
• Perform administrative duties, including: scheduling, handling mail, preparing packages for shipment, directing/responding to inquiries, misc. research projects, etc.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• 3D thinker able to visualize and understand unique book formats.
• Creative problem solver.
• Puzzle enthusiast.
• Knowledge and enthusiasm for pop culture and trends in children’s marketplace.
• Excited about the creative process and sharing ideas.
• Meets deadlines and can manage time effectively with good follow-up and follow-through.
• Excellent administrative skills.
• Strong verbal and written communications skills, able to work with colleagues at every level of seniority.
• Highly organized, capable of multi-tasking.
• Attention to detail.
• Self-directed and able to work independently to achieve goals.
• Comfortable using email, calendar management, and file management tools.
• Familiar with Word, Outlook, PowerPoint and Excel or other like tools.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• For Editorial Assistant: no publishing experience required but 1 year preferred (internships ok).
• For Assistant Editor: 1-2 years of experience preferred.