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

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with Art Director, Publishers, and Editors to develop covers and support the publishing programs overall
• 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
• Support the art director and other designers with all aspects of cover design as needed
• Research illustrators, designers, photographers, stock, and/or type. Present appropriate samples and pitch vision in meetings
• Art direct illustrators, photographers, and/or freelance designers from initial concept and sketch development through revisions, to final art for covers of assigned titles
• 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
• Problem-solve with sensitivity and self-awareness
• Track cover design trends in YA space with an eye toward setting new trends
• Develop and maintain cultural competence to ensure stories about people from marginalized backgrounds are represented sensitively and authentically
• Communicate clearly, professionally, and courteously with all internal and external contacts
• Attend and participate in production, cover, team, and title-specific meetings
• Participate in DEI initiatives
• Perform other related duties as assigned

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

Nice to Have

• Experience with pre-press, 1-color, and 4-color printing processes, and PDF workflow
• Advanced retouching and/or photo composite skills
• Hand lettering skills
• Illustration skills
• Experience designing Young Adult covers

Qualifications

• Educational background is not explicitly specified, but 3+ years of relevant experience is required

Benefits & Perks

• Full-time employees are eligible for comprehensive benefits including 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, and generous paid time off
• Salary of $66,500 with potential for annual profit award or bonus