Job Description

Overview

We are seeking a curious, detail-oriented, and highly organized Editorial Intern who is excited to learn how manuscripts are shaped, edited, and prepared for the printer. This internship offers hands-on experience across the editorial process; from reviewing proposals to assisting on initial reads, setting up the metadata for titles in our internal systems, reviewing proofer’s marks and checking corrections, and preparing manuscripts for design.

The ideal candidate is passionate about books and storytelling, brings strong writing and editing skills, has excellent attention to detail, and wants to learn about every aspect of the editorial process. We’re looking for someone who is comfortable juggling multiple tasks and is excited to contribute thoughtful feedback while gaining firsthand experience alongside our collaborative editorial team.

Responsibilities

1. Managing Editorial Support

• Assist our Senior Managing Editor in setting up titles internally, updating the title plan, and inputting sales conference materials as needed.
• Help prepare notes and trackers for editorial team meetings and assist with mailings as needed.

1. Production Editorial Support

• Support Production Editors in copyediting, reviewing proofreader’s marks, checking corrections, preparing manuscripts for the interior design team, and performing formatting proofs.
• Fact check citations, Scripture references, quotations, and sourced material as needed.
• Copyedit and proof back cover copy and review the final jacket before the editor sends to the printer. Update any reprint corrections.

1. Acquiring Editor Support

• Review proposals and provide thoughtful feedback to editors, including notes on concept, writing, and marketplace analysis.
• Contribute to various admin tasks as needed, including sales conference preparation, initial reads of manuscripts, and attending team meetings.

Qualifications

• Candidates who are available to work in a full-time capacity in 2027 or 2028 are eligible for this internship; open to rising seniors, recent graduates, master’s students, or entry level candidates with up to 1 year of work experience.
• Candidates must be available to work 28 hours per week, Monday through Thursday, from June 7 to August 12, 2027. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are mandatory in-office days at our Nashville headquarters, while Mondays and Thursdays are remote workdays. Compensation for this internship is $18 per hour.
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.
• A resume and cover letter are required; applications without a cover letter will not be considered. Please address your cover letter to “Hiring Team.”
• Ideal candidates are either currently enrolled in or have recently graduated from an undergraduate or master’s program.
• A passion for books is highly valued!
• Strong writing and editing skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Familiarity with the Chicago Manual of Style and a willingness to learn house style conventions.
• Experience with Microsoft Word (tracking changes, commenting, etc.) and Adobe Acrobat (marking up PDFs, commenting, etc.).
• Excellent organization, ability to prioritize tasks well, and great interpersonal skills.
• Candidates concentrating in English, Journalism, or Publishing are preferred.

Why Join Us?

Nelson Books’ editorial team is a thoughtful and collaborative team with a strong culture and a genuine desire to teach, as well as a shared belief in the power of books to impact lives. You’ll gain hands-on experience with the editorial process while learning how to collaborate effectively in both in-person and remote work environments as part of a hybrid team. You’ll contribute ideas that are valued and work alongside publishing professionals who are invested in helping you learn and grow. Most importantly, you’ll play a role in bringing meaningful books to life and preparing them for the readers who need them.

HarperCollins Publishers is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, in our job application and/or interview process. If you need assistance or accommodation in completing your application, due to a disability, email us at TalentManagement@harpercollins.com. Note: we will only respond to accommodation requests.

The deadline to apply is October 1, 2026 at 11:59pm EST.

HarperCollins Publishers is an equal opportunity employer.