Job Description
We have an exciting opportunity to join our innovative and groundbreaking Audio division as a Freelance Audiobook Proof Listener.
In addition to a dedicated in-house studio team, Penguin Audio work with an ever-growing roster of highly skilled freelance producers, sound editors, and proofers.
In this advert, we are looking specifically to engage new audiobook proof listeners only.
About the team
Penguin are the UK's leading publisher of audiobooks. We bring together our amazing authors and the world's very best acting talent to create exceptional listening experiences; from the finest stories and ideas for adults to entertainment and education for children and families.
The role
The role of an audiobook proof listener is to assess the production against the book’s manuscript with particular attention to:
(i) deviations from the script: misreads, repetitions, missing text
(ii) consistency of tone, voice and accent
(iii) correct and consistent pronunciations throughout
(iv) technical issues: extraneous noises, anything that distracts from the listener’s enjoyment of the audiobook.
You will work with the production team, engaging with the producer and sound editor to deliver a comprehensive proof report.
What you’ll bring
It goes without saying you’ll have a passion for audio, but you certainly don’t need to have worked in audiobooks or publishing before.
Essential criteria:
Familiarity with audiobooks, their format, and conventions
A keen eye for detail
A keen ear for technical audio quality
The ability to assess and feed back on a reader's performance
Demonstrable communication skills
Demonstrable time management skills
Strong organisation and prioritisation skills
Critical thinking skills
Flexibility and openness to changing schedules
Access to the necessary equipment and space (a computer, over-ear headphones, and a quiet workspace)
The ability to use a computer and the main software packages confidently (Box, Excel, a media player of choice)
Preferred criteria:
Prior proof listening experience
Proof reading experience
Native/Proficiency in a foreign language, particularly the following languages:
French
Italian
Spanish
German
Portuguese
Arabic
Japanese
Mandarin
Knowledge of audio editing
Experience in an adjacent audio industry (radio, drama, podcast)
Expertise or strong knowledge/interest in a particular area (e.g. a historical period)
Application instructions
Please apply with your CV and cover letter outlining your suitability to join our freelance roster by Monday 1st September 2026. As part of your cover letter, we’d like you to cover the following:
Tell us about a recent audio production that you’ve enjoyed – whether that’s an audiobook or audio drama – and why.
Who would be your dream audiobook narrator and why.
The recruitment process
This is an opportunity to join a freelance roster – there is not one single ‘role’ available, and onboarding will be dependent upon successful completion of a proof listening test.
Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a short proofing test, for which feedback will be provided. A second proofing test may be offered, depending on the candidate’s first test score.
Finally, successful candidates will be added to our freelance roster and offered projects on an ad hoc basis, with no minimum agreed quantity of work.
Company: Penguin Books Limited | Job ID: 281895
In addition to a dedicated in-house studio team, Penguin Audio work with an ever-growing roster of highly skilled freelance producers, sound editors, and proofers.
In this advert, we are looking specifically to engage new audiobook proof listeners only.
About the team
Penguin are the UK's leading publisher of audiobooks. We bring together our amazing authors and the world's very best acting talent to create exceptional listening experiences; from the finest stories and ideas for adults to entertainment and education for children and families.
The role
The role of an audiobook proof listener is to assess the production against the book’s manuscript with particular attention to:
(i) deviations from the script: misreads, repetitions, missing text
(ii) consistency of tone, voice and accent
(iii) correct and consistent pronunciations throughout
(iv) technical issues: extraneous noises, anything that distracts from the listener’s enjoyment of the audiobook.
You will work with the production team, engaging with the producer and sound editor to deliver a comprehensive proof report.
What you’ll bring
It goes without saying you’ll have a passion for audio, but you certainly don’t need to have worked in audiobooks or publishing before.
Essential criteria:
Familiarity with audiobooks, their format, and conventions
A keen eye for detail
A keen ear for technical audio quality
The ability to assess and feed back on a reader's performance
Demonstrable communication skills
Demonstrable time management skills
Strong organisation and prioritisation skills
Critical thinking skills
Flexibility and openness to changing schedules
Access to the necessary equipment and space (a computer, over-ear headphones, and a quiet workspace)
The ability to use a computer and the main software packages confidently (Box, Excel, a media player of choice)
Preferred criteria:
Prior proof listening experience
Proof reading experience
Native/Proficiency in a foreign language, particularly the following languages:
French
Italian
Spanish
German
Portuguese
Arabic
Japanese
Mandarin
Knowledge of audio editing
Experience in an adjacent audio industry (radio, drama, podcast)
Expertise or strong knowledge/interest in a particular area (e.g. a historical period)
Application instructions
Please apply with your CV and cover letter outlining your suitability to join our freelance roster by Monday 1st September 2026. As part of your cover letter, we’d like you to cover the following:
Tell us about a recent audio production that you’ve enjoyed – whether that’s an audiobook or audio drama – and why.
Who would be your dream audiobook narrator and why.
The recruitment process
This is an opportunity to join a freelance roster – there is not one single ‘role’ available, and onboarding will be dependent upon successful completion of a proof listening test.
Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a short proofing test, for which feedback will be provided. A second proofing test may be offered, depending on the candidate’s first test score.
Finally, successful candidates will be added to our freelance roster and offered projects on an ad hoc basis, with no minimum agreed quantity of work.
Company: Penguin Books Limited | Job ID: 281895
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Freelance Audio Proof Listener position is now open for candidates interested in the Content Writer Jobs sector. This role in London offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Content Writer Jobs is a plus.
