Book Designer

Candlewick Press, a leading publisher of books for children, located in Somerville, MA, seeks an experienced design professional to join our team. As a member of the in-house design team the Book Designer is responsible for all aspects of the design and production of children’s trade books, across all genres. The Book Designer works closely with creative directors, art directors, editors, production controllers and artists to produce high-quality children’s books.

Responsibilities will include but not limited to:

• Conceptualize and execute the design of book interiors, jackets and covers across all genre (including bilingual and foreign editions; as well as imprint titles when specified) under the supervision of the Executive Creative Director (ECD) and/or the Executive Art Director (EAD) or AD.

• Follow Candlewick’s aesthetic, design standards and house styles.

• Contribute to the illustrator and photography selection process through active awareness and interest in photographers, artists, art styles; as well as picture book design and contemporary fiction cover design.

• Attend Illustrator Search Meetings and contribute to the discussion taking into consideration current trends and the Candlewick aesthetic.

• Work closely with art directors, illustrators, editors and production controllers throughout the bookmaking process from development to printed books.

• Manage schedules and communication/art direction with illustrators.

• Provide color mock ups of book jackets and interiors for presentation. Present covers at weekly covers meetings.

• Plan and pace picture books, working through sketch dummy stages to final layouts.

• Proactively circ all stages of book layouts following pub list schedules.

• Collaborate with the graphic production dept. and the production dept. to identify potential art reproduction issues and discuss book formats regarding what size, shape, material best suits each project, budget, and the market.

• Establish and adhere to schedules from design concept, through associated sales materials to final files for production and digital archiving.

• Approve color proofs of book jackets and interiors with attention to the reproduction quality of the original art. Attend press checks.

• Maintain a current sense of design trends and familiarity with target audiences to understand consumer needs and preferences.

• Advocate for the illustrator in regards to how their art is represented and reproduced; as well as being responsible for the proper treatment and handling of the art.

• Attend all relevant meetings related to the design and production of assigned projects.

• Provide a monthly status report when requested.

• Follow work flow systems, bookmaking processes and department protocols.

• Attend pub meetings and report on status of projects.

• Follow the pdf factory/image work flow guidelines for creating PDF's to be accessed at key stages by the sales, marketing and the foreign rights departments.

• Initiate artist payment requests at key stages in the bookmaking process.

Skills:

· Proficient MacIntosh Operating System user. Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and working knowledge of Adobe Acrobat.

· Proficient in InDesign text design tools and typography for complex in-house
page composition.

· Deadline oriented, ability to multitask and work under pressure.

· Excellent communication (both written and verbal) and interpersonal skills.

· Proficient knowledge of book production processes from conception to publication.

· Proficient knowledge of typography and typesetting.

· Advanced art direction skills.

· Solid problem-solving skills

· Ability to work collaboratively and accept constructive criticism.

· Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

· Advanced knowledge of four-color and black & white printing processes

· Scanning and color correcting.

Qualifications:

· Comprehensive design portfolio is required

· Book publishing or related experience a plus.

· Knowledge of and appreciation for book design, typography and children’s book illustration.

· Possess a positive, team player attitude.

· Bachelor of Arts degree, design degree or equivalent preferred but not required.

This is a full-time position based in our Somerville office with eventual eligibility for hybrid work. A comprehensive benefits package is offered including medical, dental, life and disability insurance; flex spending and 401k plans, voluntary benefits, generous paid time off and much more! If you wish to be considered for this opportunity, please forward a resume and cover letter to careers@candlewick.com

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $56,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Somerville, MA 02144