Commissioning Editor

About This Opportunity

An exciting opportunity is available for a Commissioning Editor to join the University of Queensland Press (UQP). In this role, you will commission and publish titles for UQP’s adult list that are commercially viable and/or culturally important, including having a strong involvement with First Nations writers.

The University of Queensland is committed to the employment, career development and support of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and recognises their contributions to its community in academic and professional roles and at all levels.

If you’re passionate about books, have a sharp editorial instinct, and thrive in a collaborative environment, we invite you to join UQP and make a lasting impact on Australia’s literary landscape.

Key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• The University of Queensland and UQP are strongly committed to championing the work and voices of First Nations writers: Therefore, the successful candidate will spend time with First Nations community and networks to develop potential new book projects.
• Acquire, develop and structurally edit titles across fiction, non-fiction and poetry.
• Manage a pipeline of projects, publishing at least 8 titles annually.
• Assess submissions and present manuscripts for acquisition decisions.
• Oversee projects end-to-end, including budgets, negotiations, and collaboration with marketing, sales and freelance teams.

For further information, please click here to view the information booklet.

About You

Genuine Occupational Requirement: The University of Queensland considers that to perform this role, it is essential that the person is an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person. It is therefore a genuine occupational requirement under section 25 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld).

The successful candidate will be required to provide evidence to confirm that they are an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person.

• A degree level qualification in Humanities, Social Sciences or related field with at least four (4) years subsequent relevant experience in a publishing environment; or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education and or training.
• Proven in establishing and developing strong professional relationships with the writing community. Prior experience engaging and communicating with Indigenous authors and communities is highly desirable.
• A sound understanding of current market trends in literary publishing, both nationally and internationally.
• Advanced verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and effectively within a team and with external stakeholders.

Desirable

• Postgraduate qualifications in Editing and Publishing.

If you are interested in the position but are not sure you have all of the skills required, we encourage you to apply. We offer industry leading training and coaching that can help you the rest of the way.

The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia.

Want to Apply?

All applicants must upload the following documents in order for your application to be considered:

• Cover letter summarising how your background aligns to the ‘About You’ section
• Resume

Applications close Sunday, 26 April 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-62866).