Associate Editor, Riverhead (Hybrid)

Riverhead Books is looking to hire an Associate Editor to join our small editorial team, reporting to the Editor in Chief and working on her list of literary fiction, but also acting as an important member of the larger editorial group. The ideal candidate has a minimum of 2 years of editorial experience, is detail-oriented and deadline-driven, and a broad reader with a literary sensibility.

Founded in 1994, Riverhead Books is a boutique literary imprint that publishes urgent, unheard voices worldwide, including award-winning literary fiction and bestselling nonfiction writers. Throughout its history, Riverhead has been dedicated to publishing extraordinary groundbreaking, unique writers. Riverhead’s books and authors have won or been finalists for Pulitzer Prizes, National Book Awards, National Book Critic Circle Awards, MacArthur Genius Awards, Hurston Wright Legacy Awards, Dayton Literary Peace Prizes, and numerous other distinctions.

Specific responsibilities include:

• Reads, evaluates, and reports on manuscripts and proposals; recommends projects for acquisition.
• Works with supervisor on developing and finalizing manuscripts, including substantive and line edits.
• Drafts title information sheet and jacket copy.
• Develops and maintains author and agent contacts.
• Creates content for reader’s guides to accompany books.
• Handles special projects as assigned and works collaboratively with the larger team.
• Performs other related duties and support functions as needed.

Please apply if you meet the following qualifications:

• Relevant background in editorial and acquisitions publishing (minimum 2 years)
• Is a book generalist with a keen eye for both literary and upmarket commercial fiction
• Conceptual and line editing experience
• Impeccable proof-reading skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Clear and effective presentation abilities
• Goal-oriented team player who can cultivate productive working relationships
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively and to be supportive of other team members as well as authors
• Proficiency in creative problem-solving, decision making, time management, and setting priorities with timely follow-up skills

The salary for this position is $66,500.00. All positions are currently eligible for an annual profit award or bonus, subject to company results.  

This is a hybrid position with in-office responsibilities. We will consider candidates who can work from a commutable distance to our offices at 1745 Broadway, which includes the tri-state area (NJ, CT, & PA).

Please apply by August 8, 2025 and include your resume and cover letter for consideration. Before applying for any role at Penguin Random House, we recommend you review our applicant resources page and our FAQs page.

Penguin Random House job postings include a good faith compensation range for each open position. The salary range listed is specific to each particular open position and takes into account various factors including the specifics of the individual role, and candidate's relevant experience and qualifications.

Full-time employees are eligible for our comprehensive benefits program. Our range of benefits include, but are not limited to, Medical/Prescription drug insurance, Dental, Vision, Health Care/Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account, Health Savings Account, Pre-Tax and Roth 401(k), Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance, Life/AD&D Insurance, Commuter Benefits, Student Loan Repayment Program, Educational Assistance & generous paid time off.

Penguin Random House is the leading adult and children's publishing house in North America, the United Kingdom and many other regions around the world. In publishing the best books in every genre and subject for all ages, we are committed to quality, excellence in execution, and innovation throughout the entire publishing process: editorial, design, marketing, publicity, sales, production, and distribution. Our vibrant and diverse international community of nearly 300 publishing brands and imprints include Ballantine Bantam Dell, Berkley, Clarkson Potter, Crown, DK, Doubleday, Dutton, Grosset & Dunlap, Little Golden Books, Knopf, Modern Library, Pantheon, Penguin Books, Penguin Press, Penguin Random House Audio, Penguin Young Readers, Portfolio, Puffin, Putnam, Random House, Random House Children's Books, Riverhead, Ten Speed Press, Viking, and Vintage, among others. More information can be found at

Penguin Random House values the array of talents and perspectives that a diverse workforce brings. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status.

Company: Penguin Random House LLC | Job ID: 281805