Journals Production Coordinator, Penn State University Press

Position Specifics

The Penn State University Press seeks a Journals Production Coordinator to oversee the production workflow for a portfolio of titles in the press’s expanding journals program.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Penn State University Press, which has a robust journals program that publishes about 80 journal titles—of which publish about 175 issues total yearly.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end production workflows for assigned journals from accepted manuscript through print and digital publication.
• Develop and monitor production schedules, ensuring deadlines are met and multiple issues move efficiently through concurrent stages.
• Cook manuscripts and proofs among editors, authors, copyeditors, vendors, and printers to maintain a consistent workflow.
• Review submissions for completeness, formatting, and production readiness; prepare files for digital workflows, including image quality checks and metadata application.
• Oversee quality control across all stages, including copyedited files and proofs, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and adherence to style guidelines while incorporating author and editor corrections.
• Ensure compliance with permissions requirements for third-party content, coordinating with authors and editors as needed.
• Maintain journals database and production records, including schedules, contacts, permissions, and production status.
• Collaborate with external vendors and support onboarding of new journals by guiding editors and staff on workflows and expectations.
• Communicate regularly with editors and authors to manage timelines and keep projects on track.
• Assist with administrative and financial tracking, partner with the Production Manager on planning and reporting, and support systems, training, and special projects.
• Collaborate with external copy editors, project managers, student workers, and vendors for composition, printing, and online distribution.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of publishing workflows, including editorial, production, and print and electronic publication processes
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, including document formatting and use of track changes
• Effective communication skills with the ability to build and sustain professional relationships
• Inclusive and respectful when working with others
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree
• 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• None required

Preferred Qualifications (one or more):

• Demonstrated understanding of basic copyright law and permissions requirements
• Familiarity with online editorial and peer-review workflows
• Working knowledge of copyediting principles and editorial standards
• Familiarity with journal management systems such as Editorial Manager® (Aries Systems) or Biblio (Virtusales)

Benefits

• Salary Range: $49,188.00 - $71,340.00
• Salary Structure: Information on Penn State's salary structure
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Robust retirement plans
• Substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time
• 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children

Important Application Instructions

Applicants must submit a cover letter addressing their interest and relevant experience, in addition to a resume.

Additional Information

After training, the Journals Production Coordinator will work with various software, including Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Photoshop, and more of Microsoft Office 365.

The Pennsylvania State University Libraries is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position.

Background Checks/Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.