Designer, Middle Grade and Chapter Books – Random House Children’s Books (Hybrid)
Penguin Random House
DesignFull TimeFrom $71k
- Location
- New York, NY (Hybrid)
- Posted
- October 21, 2026
Get Started
Sign inJob Description
The Random House Children’s Books middle grade and chapter book team is seeking a highly motivated, skilled individual with a desire to learn and contribute to the team in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
The Designer will work on covers and interiors across all RHCB’s imprints, executing all phases of book making from initial concept through final art, mechanicals, and prepress and will be responsible for designing heavily illustrated middle grade interiors, chapter books, and graphic novels.
Responsibilities
- Work collaboratively with art directors, 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.
- Research and hire illustrators and designers including contract negotiation and payment processing. Present appropriate art samples and pitch vision in meetings.
- Art direct illustrators from initial concept and sketch development through revisions to final art for covers of assigned titles.
- Prepare cover and interior 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 design trends in MG and chapter book 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.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Minimum 3 years trade book design; children’s design preferred
- 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 strong book design and typography including children’s design
- 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
- Desire to learn and work collaboratively
- Deep interest in middle grade, chapter books, and graphic novels
- Experience with pre-press, 1-color and 4-color printing processes, and PDF workflow preferred
- Hand lettering skills a plus
Compensation and Benefits
- The salary for this position is $70,500.00.
- All positions are currently eligible for an annual profit award or bonus, subject to company results.
- Full-time employees are eligible for our comprehensive benefits program, 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 & generous paid time off.
Application Information
- 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).
- Applications for this role will be accepted through October 30, 2026 or until the role is filled.
- We encourage you to apply early, as we review applications on a rolling basis.
- Please include your resume, cover letter, and portfolio 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.
