Editor / Senior Editor – Random House Children’s Books (Hybrid)

Penguin Random House is the leading adult and children’s publishing house in North America, the United Kingdom, and many other regions worldwide. We are committed to publishing the best books in every genre and subject for all ages, with a focus on quality, excellence, and innovation. Our diverse international community includes nearly 300 publishing brands and imprints such as Ballantine Bantam Dell, Berkley, Crown, DK, Doubleday, Knopf, Penguin Books, Random House Children’s Books, and Viking.

About the role

Random House Children’s Books is growing our creative team with the addition of an Editor or Senior Editor in the BFYR imprint, focusing on picture books. In this role, you will acquire and develop picture books and young formats targeting children ages 0–7, including board books, novelty books, and picture books. You will establish new series, grow existing brands, and explore opportunities for IP work and franchising successful brands into Early Readers (Step Into Reading). We seek a retail-minded editor with a commercial picture book track record, strong creative instincts, and a passion for creating books that kids and families love.

Responsibilities

• Edit approximately 10–15 new books per year, identifying and acquiring projects through creative avenues.
• Oversee all editorial aspects of book development, including manuscript generation, acquisition, and collaboration with art directors on illustration.
• Write and edit cover copy, metadata, and marketing materials as needed.
• Generate book ideas for preschool and early elementary ages by analyzing market trends and identifying gaps.
• Maintain publishing and production schedules, ensuring deadlines are met while collaborating across teams.
• Participate in brainstorms, editorial meetings, and present titles at sales meetings.
• Stay abreast of retail trends, self-publishing developments, and children’s media interests by reading trade publications, visiting bookstores, and monitoring competitors.

Requirements

• 4+ years of children’s books editorial experience, with a proven track record of acquiring and editing successful picture books and young illustrated work.
• Excellent writing and copywriting skills.
• Ability to think creatively and expand children’s book characters and worlds.
• Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate with authors, illustrators, agents, and internal teams (Editorial, Design, Sales, Marketing).
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Teams; comfort with virtual collaboration tools.
• Familiarity with AI as an administrative tool is a plus.
• Spanish language fluency is a plus but not required.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA).
• Pre-Tax and Roth 401(k) retirement plans.
• Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance and Life/AD&D Insurance.
• Commuter benefits and Student Loan Repayment Program.
• Educational Assistance and generous paid time off.
• Annual profit award or bonus, subject to company results.

Pay

The salary for the Editor level is $77,500, and the salary for the Senior Editor level is $85,500. Title, level, and compensation will be commensurate with experience.

Schedule

This is a hybrid role based in New York City, requiring 1–3 days per week at our 1745 Broadway location. Exceptional remote candidates may be considered.