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Production/Editorial Assistant
Penn State University Press
The Pennsylvania State University Press, a division of the Pennsylvania State University Libraries and Scholarly Communications, located in University Park in central Pennsylvania, invites applications for the position of Production/Editorial Assistant (Technical Communications Specialist, Level 2).
Founded in 1956, Penn State University Press is a long-standing member of the Association of University Presses and publishes more than ninety peer-reviewed books and eighty journals annually in the humanities and social sciences. The Press seeks an individual interested in a publishing career to assist in both Production and Acquisitions departments. This full-time, non-tenured staff position reports to the managing editor, with a secondary reporting line to the editor-in-chief.
For the Production department, the Production/Editorial Assistant will help edit selected manuscripts; engage freelance indexers and proofreaders; act as a liaison for packagers; assist with manuscript styling/coding; check author corrections to proofs; proofread jackets and covers; edit and proofread marketing copy; review submitted image/art files; record expenses in our title management system; and complete other office tasks. For the Acquisitions department, the successful applicant will provide acquisitions support for the Eisenbrauns imprint. Responsibilities include working closely with the editor(s) acquiring for Eisenbrauns to help organize information about projects that have been invited, sent out for review, accepted for publication, and turned over to Production. The P/EA will manage the files for each project under consideration; coordinate the peer review of manuscripts when necessary; initiate payments to peer reviewers; maintain and update departmental databases; draft book descriptions for project proposals; review copyright requirements for projects; prepare provisional book budgets and request cost estimates when needed; prepare accepted manuscripts for transmittal into production; maintain regular communication via e-mail and phone with scholarly authors, editors, contributors, and peer reviewers; screen and write rejection letters for some manuscripts; take minutes at Eisenbrauns Editorial Committee meetings; and perform basic filing and photocopying.
The University Libraries values diversity of thought, perspective, experience, and people and is actively committed to a culture of inclusion and respect. We encourage candidates to apply who thrive in a welcoming, multicultural environment. More information on Penn State’s commitment to Diversity, Equity and inclusive Excellence can be found by visiting http://equity.psu.edu/psu-diversity-statement. For additional information about the Libraries’ diversity efforts, please visit https://libraries.psu.edu/about/divdrsity.
Typical Education and Experience Requirements:
Typically requires a Bachelor's degree or higher plus two years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Additional Preferred Education, Experience, or Certifications:
Experience with copyediting and proofreading and with software programs such as Word, Excel, FileMaker, InDesign, Photoshop, and Acrobat, in the Apple OS X environment, is preferred. Knowledge of the Chicago Manual of Style a plus. Must possess the ability to interact effectively with individuals from a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Excellent training for any career path in publishing.
Additional Required Competencies:
We need an efficient, detail-oriented individual who is able to prioritize work and function independently. Teamwork is very important. Excellent oral and written communication skills and good organizational abilities are essential.
Job posted April 5, 2022
