Publications Specialist II - Magazine Editor

Location: Washington, DC; McLean, VA; Remote

Department: Department of Transportation (DOT), Federal Highway Administration (FHA)

Employment Type: Full‑time

Security Clearance: Public Trust (MBI) required

Salary Range: $75,000 – $85,000

Military veterans are highly encouraged to apply.

About the Role

The Publications Specialist II – Magazine Editor will provide comprehensive lifecycle management and editorial excellence for the agency’s magazine, ensuring timely production, strict quality standards, and compliance with federal publishing requirements.

Responsibilities

• Administer the quarterly publication cycle and high‑level editorial services.
• Ensure the magazine is produced on schedule and meets rigorous quality standards.
• Oversee the complete magazine lifecycle, establishing production schedules, managing the publication cycle, and tracking article versions through an approval chain.
• Provide high‑level editorial support, assisting with content development and creation of promotional materials.
• Implement strict version control and quality‑assurance protocols throughout editing and document production.
• Act as the primary liaison between author teams and layout/design teams.
• Manage complex review processes involving authors, technical reviewers, and legal counsel.
• Ensure all final articles and the complete magazine adhere to the GPO Style Manual, Chicago Manual of Style, and Section 508 accessibility requirements.
• Secure all necessary sign‑offs and approvals before public release.
• Handle administrative aspects of distribution and formatting specifications to meet organizational standards for professional release.

Requirements

• 7–10 years of progressively responsible professional experience in editorial and publication management.
• Proven track record overseeing production of a periodical, preferably a technical or specialty publication (e.g., transportation or research journal).
• Expertise in project management for recurring publication cycles.
• Advanced proficiency in substantive editing, copyediting, and proofreading.
• Deep understanding of Section 508 compliance and federal publishing standards.
• Ability to manage complex approval workflows and coordinate between technical and creative teams.
• U.S. citizenship required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Communications, English, Journalism, or a closely related field (Master’s degree or equivalent advanced professional certification preferred).
• Transportation experience, especially in highway and surface transportation, is preferred.
• Must possess or qualify for a Public Trust (MBI) security clearance.